Twins Achieve Perfect ACT Scores Right After Sophomore Year

New Trier Twins Excel in ACT Exam

Dean and Aiden Elhadary, twins and students at New Trier High School, recently achieved a remarkable feat. They both earned a perfect score on the ACT exam after finishing their sophomore year. Aiden recalled receiving an email about his scores during class, expressing relief and happiness upon discovering his perfect score. He quickly shared the news with his brother, Dean, who had received the same impressive result.

Future Academic Plans

Both twins have a clear vision for their future studies. Dean plans to pursue a pre-med track, while Aiden is considering a major in biology or chemistry. Achieving a composite score of 36 on their first attempt places them among the top performers. ACT Communications Director Juan Elizondo noted that only 1 in 400 students accomplish this level of success. Although typically taken during junior and senior years, some sophomores opt to test early to evaluate college opportunities.

Preparation for Success

Aiden explained their strategy for taking the test early. It served as a data point to identify areas needing improvement for future test preparation. Their mother, Jenny Elhadary, described their preparation process. The twins worked with a private tutor for one month before both the SAT and ACT. The tutor assigned practice tests, but most of their efforts were independent. Jenny stated that aside from the practice exams, they didn’t engage in any other preparation.

Parental Support

Hamdy Elhadary, their father, jokingly noted that one twin showed more interest in studying than the other. A photograph depicts the 15-year-old twins, Aiden and Dean, alongside their parents at New Trier High School’s Winnetka campus on June 27, 2026, following their successful ACT attempt.

Key Skills and Experiences

The Elhadarys credited strong reading comprehension skills cultivated from a young age as instrumental to their success in the English and reading sections of the exam. Dean highlighted the importance of attention in math classes for other portions. Jenny Elhadary learned of their success during a work teleconference, and both parents work in healthcare. Jenny is the vice president for clinical services at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, while Hamdy is a physician assistant focused on plastic surgery at Endeavor Health.

Aspirations in the Medical Field

Exposure to discussions about the medical profession has influenced the twins’ career aspirations. Although undecided on their specialties, Dean and Aiden plan to follow in their parents’ footsteps into the medical field.

Extracurricular Activities

Beyond academics, the twins participate in the Science Olympiad, a nationwide extracurricular program where they compete in engineering projects. Aiden also mentioned their involvement in coaching Marie Murphy Middle School students in Science Olympiad in Wilmette. They visit the school once or twice weekly to assist.

College Visits and Future Prospects

Duke University is among their top college choices, though they are still exploring options. Hamdy Elhadary expressed pride and surprise at their achievement. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the excitement and significance of their accomplishments.