Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

> My class valedictorian went on to become a doctor and while that is certainly impressive to me, there are many doctors and he practices (like almost every other doctor) and isn’t pushing the boundaries of medical science.

You seem like someone who thinks things through, so I suspect you’ll know what I’m about to say, but given the sentiment of your comment, I think it’s worth explicitly sharing this:

The fact that your class valedictorian went on to be a doctor is great. Not everyone needs to push the boundaries. Your classmate may end up saving/helping countless lives.



He isn't saying that being a doctor isn't great.

He is saying that the people who add most value to science isn't always the ones who are at the top of the hierarchy in the school system.

Performing well in school is like a F1 racing car: very fast, but can only go on paths very well trodden already, i.e. paved road.


Please excuse my misinterpreting OP’s comment, and thank you for clarifying.




Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: