BY MATT MACKINDER
Clarkston News Editor

Nate Beggs said he always strives to do his best academically.
Still, when the soon-to-be Everest Collegiate senior scored a perfect 36 on the ACT this past school year, he said he didn’t expect to get that score, especially on the first try.
“Academics and learning in general have been a very big part of my life, and much of that I owe to my parents and teachers who have always encouraged me to be curious and search for answers,” Beggs said. “Everest places an emphasis on forming the individual student to be the best person they can be, which means I always have students around me who challenge me to perform well.
“Everest also ensures that their students understand the concepts that are being taught, as opposed to teaching simply to do well on a test.”
In addition, Beggs recently received his AP test scores – three 5s (Calculus, History, Biology) and one 4 (Chemistry). He’ll be taking four AP classes this next school year as well as Calculus 3.
“AP classes tend to build from one lesson to the next, and therefore if one lesson is not understood, it will be very difficult to learn the next,” said Beggs. “Knowing this, I made sure to understand every lesson of a class, whether that meant asking my teacher questions, looking something up, or asking a classmate.”
Beggs is also involved in football, baseball, basketball, band and National Honor Society at EC.
“I hope to continue my academic excellence, and to explore different college and career opportunities,” said Beggs, who is looking at law school or medical school after he graduates. “I am looking for a school that will allow me to excel at my chosen profession. I have looked at many diverse schools across the United States, from the Ivy league to local universities.
“Overall, I am looking for a career that will allow me to make a big impact on people’s lives, especially those who have trouble defending themselves.”