My oldest is in her last year of middle school. She is that gifted kid who will write a 20 page book report when the teacher only required something in the range of 5-10 pages. The extra effort is a combination of interest and perfectionism. She is a very efficient, diligent worker. She wants to attend a work-intensive IB program for high school next year. Between the demands placed on her by school and the demands she places on herself, I'm worried.
Perfectionism could result from a belief that to be successful one must attend a prestigious college (whether and how much it it helps can be debated, but it's not a must) and that to do that one must be a perfect applicant. Mistaken beliefs could be addressed if they exist.
