Bellport High School Senior Earns Perfect Score On AP Research Exam

Press release from South Country Central School District:

Oct. 5, 2022

Bellport High School senior Rachel Li has much to celebrate. She is among just 1.14% of AP Research exam takers from around the world to earn a perfect score.

To earn the score, Li was required to submit a college-level research paper that she penned following a year’s worth of research while enrolled in her school’s AP Research class. Her paper explores New York City’s specialized schools and the stereotypes associated with them, as well as the history and discussions surrounding those stereotypes, specifically those related to Asian Americans.

“I wasn’t expecting it,” Li said of her perfect score. “I wasn’t even thinking about the score when working on my paper.” She urged her fellow students to enroll in the AP Research course. “I learned a lot about myself and my work habits. My teachers and classmates were very supportive.”

Li is an exceptional academic. She is a member of her school’s National Honor Society, is an AP Scholar with Distinction and recently earned an AP Capstone Seminar and Research certificate. She is expected to graduate with an AP Capstone Diploma designation in June. In addition, she plays the viola in her school’s chamber and pit orchestras and is a member of her school’s Key Club and Literary Magazine.

“We are so very proud of Rachel,” said Principal Erika Della Rosa. “This is an amazing accomplishment.”

This press release was produced by South Country Central School District. The views expressed here are the author's own.