Seniors Brendan Hollaway and Emily Tallman received a perfect score on the ACT, which is a rarity among all of the students who take the test nationwide.
Most of the upperclassmen who take the test for the first time are somewhat nervous. According to College Board, getting a high score on the ACT will guarantee scholarships, as well as an automatic acceptance to certain colleges nationwide.
“I think it will definitely give me a leg up [when] applying to schools like Stanford and Rice,” Tallman said. “I don’t think it will guarantee my acceptance, but it will be a nice added touch.”
People assume that those who get a perfect score are either super smart or lucky, but they work more in order to achieve success. Hollaway and Tallman have shown underclassmen, and upperclassmen, that it’s possible to receive a 36 out of 36 on a required college admission assessment.
“I feel like there is a little bit more pressure,” Tallman said. “I was already doing well in school before, so I don’t think anyone can expect much more of me.”
Hollaway and Tallman are involved in different clubs and organizations throughout the school, and community. Hollaway is a part of men’s choir, robotics and student council. Tallman is in varsity honor choir and also volunteers at a rabbit shelter.
“I absolutely love reading, robotics, and I also play video games called Dungeon and Dragons,” Hollaway said.
Both Tallman and Hollaway are planning to go to college after high school. Hollaway is applying to the University of Texas, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the California Institute of Technology Tallman is applying to Rice, Stanford, the University of Texas honors and Texas A&M.
“If you’re looking for a way to prepare yourself without spending hours and hours reviewing over review books, just read normal literature like fantasy books or books you enjoy.” Hollaway said. “It definitely helps a lot with your comprehension.”