What is an “A” Student

In a general sense, to “be educated,” usually refers to having many references, so we can make good decisions (we hope better decisions than if we didn’t have those references!). We seek to be “well read,” so our personal lives and society are more fulfilling and we are less narrow minded. . . that’s all good! 
My question is however: do we remember what we learn, especially if we only learned it to pass a course? Or do we really learn and remember information when we take a personal interest in it? When we come across some topic or some material that is so interesting that we internalize it? We are curious about it. It inspires us to think about it, explore it, and then remember it. 

Think of all those college courses you took. How much do you remember, especially if you are middle-age or older? Or how often do you need to apply most of that college material? But, if by chance you have maintained the same interests as when you were in school, then I’d venture that you still remember that set of information. Because you have chosen to live with it over the years, your mind has gone to it keeping your curiosity fresh, your mind active with that topic.  

This is not big news, I know. But, it does point to the idea that we learn what we want to learn. We have particular interests. We want to pursue those interests and keep mentally active with them. 

Sure, an “A” student will “jump the hurdles” and learn everything for the test. But, over time, the amount of info that remains useful and important to the individual is likely to be significantly less. Time will filter what is remembered according to the individual’s interests and practices. An “A” student then, is one who takes an interest in many things. Who is curious and seeks to appease that curiosity through knowledge.