This is the story of a student whose determination to perform well on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) inspired an initiative that helped shape her own future as well as the future of others.
Rachel Chehayeb joined ISC-Choueifat as a 4th grader in 2007 and she graduated from the school in June of 2016. During her time at ISC-Choueifat, Rachel distinguished herself as an ambitious, intelligent, hardworking, and determined student. She developed strong study habits and encouraged her peers to do the same.
In addition to her focus on academics, Rachel was also an active participant in SLO®. She held a number of leadership positions including Deputy Head Prefect for the Lower School, Activities, and Academic departments. In her senior year, she was selected as Head Prefect and effectively led a large team of students. The many positions she held helped her develop her skills in leadership, communication, strategic planning, and teamwork.
As a junior in high school, Rachel began thinking about university and the application process. She knew that she wanted to attend a top university in the U.S. and would need to take the SAT and do well. She also knew that the math and English curriculum at ISC-Choueifat were geared to provide the necessary foundation for her to take the SAT. Rachel was confident that she would be well-prepared for the test, but she wanted to do more to make sure that she – and others – could get the best possible score. So she got to work.
Rachel took on the management of the “SAT Information Board” at the school and expanded its contents to include the “Word of the Day,” a daily math challenge, and SAT study tips and tactics. She organized and ran SAT study groups during lunch breaks and after school. She organized a mock SAT exam one week before the official test and oversaw the proctoring and correction of the mock exams by prefects. She also gave an SAT presentation to students in grades 9 and 10 to impress upon them the importance of daily SAT study habits.
As a result of Rachel’s efforts, 35% of ISC-Choueifat students in grades 10 and 11 participated in mock SAT exam sessions. Many others attended the study groups. The additional practice and exposure helped them earn higher scores on the official SAT. Rachel, herself, also benefitted from her initiatives. She scored a perfect 1600 on the SAT I and also earned full marks on three SAT II subjects (physics, math, and chemistry).
With great SAT results, a strong academic record, active community engagement, and determination, Rachel was accepted to Yale University as a freshman and has yet to decide what major she will pursue. We wish Rachel success in university and beyond!
If you are a graduate of a SABIS® Network school and would like to get in touch with old friends and classmates, visit saga.sabis.net and join the SABIS® Alumni Global Association (SAGA) now! SAGA is also on Facebook at facebook.com/SABISalumni.