It's good to be passionate about your school work.
Alex has been getting good grades at school, but his slacker friends have been pulling him away to hang out with them.
Alex wants to hang out with his friends.
Alex hangs out with his friends sometimes, but maintains focus on his schoolwork.
Alex hangs out more and more with his slacker friends.
Alex graduates top of his class and gets into a good university.
Alex's grades suffer, and he doesn't get into college.