After earning a perfect composite score on the ACT exam, a Bearden High School student had an impressive encore – a perfect score on the SAT!
Lydia Pulsinelli is a senior at Bearden, and stellar academic performance is only a part of her résumé. She has also participated in theater, played on the Ultimate Frisbee team for four years, and serves as president of the Latin Club. But her performance on the two college entrance exams puts her in rare company among high school students.
Pulsinelli said she took several practice tests to prepare, adding that when she takes a high-stakes test, “I just sort of go into a different mental zone, just really focused for those few hours. And then I come out of it and can barely remember what just happened.”
In her spare time, the senior enjoys hiking and gardening and said she is aiming for a career in agricultural science or a similar field. In the meantime, she is applying to colleges including the University of Wisconsin, the University of Vermont, Cornell University and the University of Washington.
Pulsinelli cited the influence of her teachers at Bearden including Sandy Hughes, for Latin and medieval studies; Tonya Henke, for environmental science; Chris Taylor, for AP U.S. history; and Tim Vacek, for AP seminar.
She said she particularly likes classes that combine learning and fun, adding that “In general, I enjoy school.”
Josh Flory is a multi-media specialist with Knox County Schools and writes the blog Hall Pass for the KCS website.