Earthsmith

This is an interesting tale that follows Smith of Earth as he enrolls and attends an intergalactic school as Earth's first representative. At first it appears that all the other races present, many of which have descended from humans, are physically and mentally stronger and more powerful. But as the story continues and Smith becomes the butt of many a joke this begins to change and we find out the truth, not only about Smith but about Earth and its position in the Galactic scheme of things.