Although Cameron Clarke is the 18-year-old Philadelphia student who scored a perfect 2400 on the Scholastic Aptitude Test, it is his father, Peter Clarke, who, after months of telling only close family and friends, decided it was time to go public with the news.
Peter, who owns The Reef, a Caribbean restaurant in Philly’s South Street District, says he was talking to a local reporter about the daily topic of youth crime, when he decided to ask why there was no positive news being reported about Black teens. Such as? The reporter wanted to know. Such as a local African-American student scoring a perfect 2400 on the SAT.
So he began relating the story of his son’s achievement. Peter Clarke says several weeks passed before the story appeared, as more pressing news took over the headlines.
But once the local media picked it up, social media propelled the Cameron Clarke story to national and international outlets. The unassuming Cameron was inundated with requests for interviews and guest appearances.
Although he wasn’t expecting so much attention, Cameron says, “It’s always reassuring to know that you’re not the only one who thinks what you’re doing is worthwhile.”
As a student at the exclusive Germantown Academy Upper School, Cameron has indulged all of his interests. An avid musician, he is principal cellist in the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, a position that landed him an invitation to perform at the Aspen Music Festival. He also enjoys writing and is editor of his school newspaper, a member of the math club, and a student government senator. Oh, and an athlete — he’s a member of the school’s cross country team.
“We have kept him busy,” his father says in a bit of an understatement. Peter Clarke also says his son has chosen friends who are as academically competitive as he is. “They push each other and they are supportive of each other,” he says.
