A Perfect ACT Score for MHS Junior, Emily Howard
A Marietta High School student has achieved a perfect score on the ACT – something that less than one percent of students in the United States can add to their resume.
Emily Howard, a student at MHS, recently scored a perfect composite score of 36 on the American College Test or ACT. According to ACT statistics, only 0.195 percent of all test takers earn a perfect score, putting Emily in the top one percent of all test takers in the nation.
Emily first took the ACT her sophomore year and scored a 33. But, when she learned of her most recent score she was shocked, to say the least.
“I was sitting on my couch when my mom mentioned the scores had come in,” Emily explained. “I quickly logged in and checked. When I saw the scores, the only thing I could say was, “What?!” I was in total shock and even started crying. The score was so much higher than I was expecting, and I was thrilled.”
Melanie Myers, Emily’s mother, said Emily was hoping to get a score high enough for some potential international college applications, so it was wonderful to see her reaction to not only meeting that goal, but exceeding it.
Emily is a well-rounded student who participates in several extracurricular activities, including serving as a member of Beta Club and Interact Club. She is also a founding member of the MHS Science Club. Emily is excited about the opportunities her score will provide.
“It opens many doors for me both academically and financially,” Emily said. “My score qualifies me for many scholarships, and I can also apply to more summer programs and colleges with better chances of getting accepted. My score is a step towards my future and it means a lot to me.”
The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading, and science, each scored on a scale of 1-36. A student’s composite score is the average of the four test scores.
The ACT is a curriculum-based achievement exam that measures what students have learned in school. Students who earn a 36 composite score have likely mastered all of the skills and knowledge they will need to succeed in first-year college courses in the core subject areas.
Emily also has some advice for students who are striving to score high on the ACT. She says you have to be willing to put in the work.
“If you have resources open to you, use them,” she explained. “Take the official exam freshman or sophomore year to get a starting point. Don’t let that score discourage you! Remember it is a baseline and you will improve. Before you take the official exam again, sit for some practice exams and build up your testing stamina. Always get a solid eight hours of sleep the night before the exam, and eat a good breakfast the day of the exam. In the end, if you put the work into it, you will do well. I wish everyone luck in any future testing!”
Emily Howard was recognized at the February Board of Education meeting for her perfect ACT score.
The Academy Actors from Marietta Sixth Grade Academy, comprised of 25 student actors and actresses, represented MCS at the Junior Theater Festival last month. During the festival, these talented students won the coveted title of Outstanding Production in the elementary division for their performance of Aladdin Jr.
Active in a number of school and community organizations, Hall is a member of the Beta Club and the Marietta High Athletic Council. She’s also a member of Marietta’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes leadership team and was selected for a scholarship-supported summer leadership camp through her church community.