These Boston high school valedictorians set off to change the world.

But good grades only got them so far.

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1ⁱⁿ4

failed to get a bachelor’s degree within six years.

Nearly a quarter

aspired to be doctors...

...but none has earned a medical degree.

40 percent

make less than $50,000.

Four

have been homeless.

Is Boston failing its brightest students?

The Valedictorians Project

Part 1

AN EPIDEMIC OF UNTAPPED POTENTIAL

When being smart, working hard, and finishing first still isn’t enough.

Part 2

NO DOCTORS IN THE HOUSE

None of the Boston valedictorians who dreamed of becoming a doctor has earned a medical degree.

Interactive

Explore the data

Interactive

Meet the students

Images

Photos and videos

Part 3

THE EXAM SCHOOL DIVIDE

A select few go to Boston’s prestigious exam schools. Everyone else swims in a sea of mediocrity.

Part 4

LOST ON CAMPUS

Even valedictorians sometimes feel like they don’t belong in college.

Fast read

Eight takeaways

Tell us your story

Your Boston public school experience

Part 5

HOPEFUL TO HOMELESS

Low-income, immigrant students can falter even after success.

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