10 anime that made me wish I tried harder in high school

Anime often portrays protagonists who give their all regardless of setbacks—now isn’t that contagious?

The influence of pop culture cannot be underestimated. Believe it or not, I decided to pursue an undergraduate degree in political science after watching “How To Get Away With Murder” (among other factors). More recently, binge-watching “Suits” had me reconsidering a law school application. The same applies to anime.

Anime often portrays protagonists who give their all regardless of setbacks. And that may typically involve shounens with end-of-the-world stakes at hand—the genre of recent choice is slice-of-life—which is usually depicted in high school.

I often catch myself cringing at how these fantasy high schoolers take things too seriously. After all, their “make-believe” student council elections and club drama seem inconsequential compared to the problems I face as an adult. But behind the judgment and the sneering, I also found myself in complete and total awe of their tenacity—and jealousy of their high school experience (especially when I compare theirs with my own).

Maybe it’s just nostalgia talking, but here is a list of 10 anime that made me wish I tried harder in high school.

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“The Dangers in My Heart”

Though this anime showcases the typical loner-introvert who catches feelings for the class idol cliche—which in itself is utterly heartwarming and kilig-inducing —“The Dangers in My Heart” offers an all-too-real commentary on how overthinking often gets the better of those used to being alone and hurt. 

Maybe the once-classroom-wallflowers will feel sympathy or even relate to the main character, Kyotaro Ichikawa.

Additional note: The anime’s season one opening theme song, 斜陽 (Setting Sun) by Yorushika, is a must-listen!

“Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian”

A rather peculiar title, this anime is exactly what it says it is. It follows the adventures of the bare-minimum-achieving-but-actually-genius Masachika Kuze, and the overly serious transfer student Alisa Mikhailovna Kujou, who, you guessed it, hides her feelings in Russian.

The anime revolves around the push and pull between the two who are oblivious to each other’s feelings, but it also delves into the reasons and motivations pushing each character. If anything, their passion is infectious.

Season one of “Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian” is currently ongoing.

“Horimiya”

Unlike other shows of the same genre, “Horimiya” does not dwell on the chase and spends an entire season of buildup for hand-holding or a single kiss. In fact, main characters Izumi Miyamura and Kyouko Hori become a couple early on in the story and we spend the majority of the season seeing the pair develop as a couple. 

Moreover, “Horimiya” does not revolve around the two and are even occasionally sidelined to highlight the other characters present. It’s a fresh take on the typical high school romance.

“Komi Can’t Communicate”

Komi Shouko is the school beauty everyone wants to be close to but can’t approach. Though it’s not because she’s a snob or anything, she’s just incredibly shy. But despite her overwhelming introvertedness, she hopes to one day make 100 friends, a goal fellow classmate and love interest Tadano Hitohito hopes to help her with. If she can overcome her crippling anxiety, what’s stopping you from giving it your all?

“Komi Can’t Communicate” currently has two seasons with hopes of a third coming in the near future.

Additional note: Season one opening theme song, シンデレラ (Cinderella) by Cidergirl, is another must-listen!

“Eyeshield 21”

Forget the likes of “Haikyu!!” and “Blue Lock” (just kidding, we also love them), this 2005, 145-episode American football anime shouldn’t be simply forgotten. What makes “Eyeshield 21” so good? The proof that those who try hard enough can rival even the most naturally gifted.

“Bocchi The Rock!”

Hitori Gotō sought to become famous and make tons of friends by becoming a skilled rock musician. And while she’s become extremely good at her craft, her primary goal hasn’t made much progress. 

After a fateful encounter, she’s taken the first step with the new Kessoku Band and she’s determined (or at least trying) to not let her anxiety and lack of self-confidence get in the way.

Be sure to also check out their “real-life” discography for more Kessoku Band music.

“A Silent Voice”

I once saw my high school bully in college. And although they seemed happy to see me and all they would talk about were the good old times, the only thing I remembered were the harsh words. The bully forgets but the bullied never does. “A Silent Voice” has a thing or two for the bullied and ostracized.

“My Teen Romantic Comedy Snafu”

When you’re so used to being excluded, it often becomes easier to cling to loneliness and push others back to avoid disappointment and pain. Hachiman Hikigaya may have started out this way but throughout his journey in “My Teen Romantic Comedy Snafu,” he learns to crawl out of his shell and face the people reaching out their hands to him.

“Assassination Classroom”

Teachers have the power to bring out the best in each and every student under them and “Assassination Classroom” makes me wish I better appreciated everything my teachers did for me back then.

“Insomniacs After School”

After-school clubs and extracurriculars are the perfect place to hone your unique skills (or freely express your niche interests) in a safe space filled with like-minded individuals. “Insomniacs After School” will have you wishing you were more active in those activities.

“Insomniacs After School” currently has one season with a second rumored to be in the works.