<p>There was a study on this subject called "Lives of Promise: What Becomes of High School Valedictorians" by Dr. Arnold. She did a lengthy detailed study of the Vals from Illinois. Some of her quotes:</p>
<p>"But while valedictorians may not change the world, they run it and run it well, since they are the best of the mainstream." </p>
<p>"They obey rules, work hard and like learning, but they're not the mold breakers," said Arnold of the 81 Illinois high school valedictorians - 46 women and 35 men - she has tracked since their graduation in 1981. "They work best within the system and aren't likely to change it." </p>
<p>My experience is that Vals tend to be extremely focused and achievement oriented. They know what they want and what it takes to get there. The #1, #2, and #3 at my son's school are all of that and more.</p>