Every year, students with stellar academic statistics receive an accolade for their high achievement, the “STAR Student” award. The award recognizes the student who obtained the highest SAT score in their graduating class. This year, Wire’s own editor-in-chief, Jill Yoder, received the award with a perfect score of 1600, putting her in the 99th percentile amongst 2 million other annual test takers nationally.
The SAT is a much-dreaded ordeal for many students that requires months of studying and practice. Yoder mastered the preparation process down to a science, combining effective practice techniques with her naturally strong test-taking abilities. While many take advantage of tutors, Yoder preferred to prepare by herself, purchasing a hefty study book and devoting her free time to practicing. By sectioning off her work and taking note of areas where she saw difficulty, she managed to have the self-discipline to achieve this impeccable score after sitting for the test only three times. “Honestly, I think a reason I was so engaged in my studying is because I needed a break from actual school work while also still feeling productive,” Yoder said. “I don’t think I even studied an abnormal amount, but for the time I did, I was fully focused and devoted to what I was doing.”
The impressive student selected for this honor has the responsibility of choosing the teacher who they find has made the most significant contribution to their scholastic development, naming them “STAR Teacher.” Yoder selected Elliot Reid, a current Year 1 IB History teacher at North Atlanta. Yoder found that Reid helped her realize how interesting and crucial a subject she had previously struggled with really was to her understanding of the world around her. She enjoyed his teaching style, finding that his approach to teaching about historical events had her realize how interesting and relevant the subject is. All things considered, Mr. Reid shaped Yoder into the student she has become and served as an encouraging influence in her high school years. “We discussed everything as a class, and he genuinely cared about our thoughts and opinions while also pushing us to consider new perspectives,” Yoder said.
Another responsibility in the hands of the upcoming graduating class is the often stressful decision of what comes next. With Yoder’s impressive resume and unmatched test scores, the opportunities are endless for her post-graduation plans. Currently, her college choice is yet to be declared. Still, she has aspirations to pursue a major in Journalism while continuing to pursue other subjects like Math, English, and Psychology. “I’m also really hoping to study abroad in college,” Yoder said. “I want to get outside of my comfort zone and learn more about the world outside of just a classroom setting.
Jill Yoder’s remarkable achievement as the recipient of the STAR Student Award not only reflects her exceptional academic prowess but also underscores her dedication and commitment to achieving excellence. Her perfect SAT score, attained through diligent self-study and focused preparation, sets her apart as a standout student amongst millions nationwide. With her impressive credentials and unwavering determination, Yoder is set up to excel in her future endeavors, leaving an indelible mark on the world around her.
