I just want ambitious teenagers to know it is totally fine to be quiet, observant kids. Besides being a delight to your parents, you will find you have plenty of time later to catch up. So many people I work with-famous actors, accomplished writers-were overlooked in high school. Be like Allan Pearl. Sit next to the class clown and study him. Then grow up, take everything you learned, and get paid to be a real-life clown, unlike whatever unexciting thing the actual high school class clown is doing now.
Mindy Kaling's message encourages ambitious teenagers to embrace their quieter, more observant nature. She reassures them that it’s perfectly fine to be introspective rather than seek constant attention. Many successful individuals, including accomplished actors and writers, were often overlooked during their high school years. Kaling emphasizes that there is ample time in adulthood to thrive and succeed, regardless of their quieter demeanor in youth.
She uses the example of Allan Pearl, suggesting that observing and learning from others, like the class clown, can be valuable. In later life, one can channel those observations into a fulfilling career, contrasting the possible mundane paths of those who only sought the spotlight in their youth. Kaling's words highlight the importance of patience and personal growth over the immediate thrill of popularity.
