Teenagers in today’s day and age focus too much on SAT or ACT scores as a determinant of intelligence or future success. Before my junior year, when standardized testing was the last thing on my mind, I thought that one’s scores on these exams were personal. But once junior year rolled around, I learned very quickly that people felt the need to brag about scores constantly. Why do people at Harriton value their SAT/ACT scores so highly?

Harriton is a very academically competitive school. Many people feel that in order to prove that they are smarter than their peers, they must have higher scores on these tests. But this is not how it should be. As Harriton students, we should work to change the competitive environment here. We should create a space where all students can be proud of their accomplishments without being compared to their peers.

In my mind, these standardized exams are not a way to determine intellect; students should not obsess over their scores.  In the end, everyone who wants to go, and can afford, college will over-stress about test scores, which will not help you get there. Harriton students, and all students nationwide, should strive for modesty especially, during a time of such great pressure.