Grayslake Junior Earns Perfect Score on ACT

Samantha ”Sammy” Dickmann, of Grayslake, a junior at Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein, earned a perfect score of 36 on her ACT.

On average, less than one-tenth of one percent of students in the nation who take the ACT receive a 36. Among test takers in the high school graduating class of 2015, only 1,598 of more than 1.92 million students earned a perfect score, according to a Carmel Catholic High School press release.

When Dickmann began taking practice tests for the ACT she set a lofty goal: to get a perfect 36.

“I knew it might take a few attempts, but that it was something I could achieve,” Dickmann said.

Dickmann didn’t end up having to take more than one ACT test to get her perfect store.

“I didn’t believe it,” said Dickmann recalling how she felt when she saw her ACT score for the first time. “It felt surreal and exhilarating at the same time.”

Dickmann is involved in a number of activities at Carmel Catholic, including the Math Team, Astronomy Research Team, Astronomy Club, Junior Leaders, Bike Club, Spanish Club, WYSE, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. While she does not yet know where she will attend college, she is interested in studying physics-based engineering.

“We are extremely proud of her achievement,” said Mark Ostap, Carmel Catholic Principal. “Sammy is a leader among her peers who demonstrates enthusiasm for any activity she is involved in. Her perfect ACT score is a reflection of her commitment to her education; she’s passionate about it.”