He Thought He Placed 55th. Now This Utah Middle Schooler is the National Microsoft Word Champion.

HURRICANE, Utah — Most people have used Microsoft Word for school papers or resume updates, but one Hurricane Middle School student used it to achieve a national title.

Scott Chamberlain, a student at Hurricane Middle School, enrolled in a Microsoft Office specialist class without knowing it would lead him to the National Championship and eventually the World Championship. The course teaches students how to master Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. During the final exam for Word mastery, Scott not only achieved a perfect score but also completed it faster than anyone else in Utah.

This achievement earned him a spot at the national competition in Tennessee, where he faced off against the best students in the country. For most competitors, being next to their peers can be stressful, but Scott remained calm.

“When I’m taking a test, I don’t really get stressed out and pressured. I just kind of read the prompt and do it. My brain turns off and I just go on autopilot,” he said.

Scott’s father, Alex, shared his thoughts with ABC4.com. “He’s always been good at taking tests. He’s always had a talent for academics. It was a bit of a surprise to us because we didn’t know it was happening, but it fits with Scott’s style.”

When Scott traveled to the national championship, he wasn’t focused on winning a trophy but more on the experience. After the test, he thought he placed 55th out of 50. However, during the award ceremony, he realized he had actually won.

“First place in the Microsoft Office. 365 abstract for Microsoft Word: Scott Chamberlain of Utah.”

“He kind of downplays how he did it, but it’s neat to see your kid succeed,” Alex said.

Now, Scott is just one competition away from a world title. He will represent the United States of America in Anaheim later this month as he faces the best Microsoft Office students from over 100 countries.

Key Highlights of Scott’s Journey

• Early Interest in Technology: Scott’s journey began with a simple Microsoft Office class at Hurricane Middle School.
• Perfect Score and Speed: He scored perfectly on the Word exam and completed it faster than any other student in Utah.
• National Competition Experience: Competing in Tennessee, Scott remained calm despite the pressure.
• Unexpected Victory: After the national competition, Scott was surprised to learn he had won first place.
• World Championship Aspirations: Scott is now preparing to compete on the global stage in Anaheim.

What Lies Ahead

As Scott prepares for the World Championship, he continues to demonstrate the same calm and focus that helped him win at the national level. His performance has not only brought pride to his family but also inspired his school and community.

For students interested in technology and academics, Scott’s story serves as an example of what can be achieved through dedication and hard work. His success highlights the importance of education and the opportunities that come with mastering essential skills like those taught in Microsoft Office courses.

Community Response

The local community has shown support for Scott, celebrating his achievements and looking forward to his upcoming international competition. Teachers and classmates alike are proud of his accomplishments and hopeful for his future success.

As the world watches, Scott continues to prove that with the right mindset and preparation, even middle school students can reach great heights. His journey is a testament to the power of education and the potential within every young learner.