The National Merit Scholar Distinction is one of the greatest achievements a student can earn. This merit-based award honors students who excel at taking the PSAT, a free practice test given to students in preparation for the SAT. SHS senior Max Allen is one of these students, earning a distinction that less than 1% of students nationwide receive. However, this achievement is no surprise to those who know him.
According to SHS AP Physics teacher Geoff Gross, Allen is a focused, dedicated student who is extremely committed to learning. After teaching him for two years in AP Physics 1 and AP Physics C: Mechanics, Gross has seen Allen grow and develop a deep understanding of the subject. Gross explained that Allen stands out among even the highest achieving students due to his consistent efforts, noting that Allen always makes sure he has a full understanding of every topic possible.
Allen first realized he was a National Merit Semifinalist after reviewing his PSAT score in Mrs. Hall’s AP English class during his junior year. Although he initially wanted to take advantage of an opportunity for a free practice test, the outcome was much greater than he expected: Allen earned a score of 1490 out of 1520, placing him among the top high school students in the country.
In February of 2024, Allen was informed he was a National Merit Finalist, which required him to submit a transcript and essay. According to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website, “Finalists compete with all other Finalists in their state or selection unit for one of the 2,500 National Merit $2500 Scholarships. Winners are selected by a committee of college admission officers and high school counselors.”
Beyond his academic success, Allen is very involved in other aspects of the community. In addition to participating in the SHS music program, the Robotics Team, and the track team, he devotes countless hours outside of the school day as a captain of the SHS Math Team.
Allen’s mother, Dr. Heather Sacks, described her son as dedicated and kind, stating that “anything he tries to do, he does exceptionally well.” Commenting on Allen’s commitment to community service, Sacks said, “If there is anything to volunteer for, Max will do it.” This is reflected in the hundreds of hours Allen has volunteered at many places, including the Senior Center and the Scituate Town Library, where he teaches chess and helps students with their homework.
Gross and Sacks both foresee Allen doing “whatever he wants to do” in the future and believe his self-discipline and deep curiosity will lead him to success.
Allen will attend Cornell University in the fall and is excited to explore the different academic programs. He said, “I have no idea what the future holds, but I just want to take advantage of all the opportunities that surround me.”