Before our seniors head out on the next leg of their journey, we’d like to recognize the many students in the class of 2011 who received recognition in the National Merit scholarship program.  They are:

National Merit Semifinalists/Finalists
Tierney Bishop
Ruth De Guire
Aobo Guo
Sarah Kaeppel
Isabel Lane
Mara McCrickard
Katherine Raber
Anna Reighart
Sienna Zeilinger

National Merit Commended Students
Caroline Aronoff
Hailey Burns
Sydney Carter
Margaret Hilal
Alexa Magyari
Alycia Martens
Helen Patterson
Stephanie Yu

National Merit Special Scholar
Courtney Dumas

National Achievement Scholar Finalists
Sydney Carter
Madia Essiet
Brandy Mickler
Lorin Smith
Adriana Zinn 

National Achievement Certificate for Outstanding Participants
Sesa Bakenra
Danielle Davis

What do the designations mean?

Commended Students

In late September, more than two-thirds of the approximately 50,000 high scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT qualify as Commended Students in recognition of their outstanding academic promise. Although Commended Students do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, some of these students do become candidates for Special Scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses.

Semifinalists

In early September, about one-third of the 50,000 high scorers, on a state representational basis, are identified as Semifinalists. They are the highest scoring entrants in each state. To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, Semifinalists must advance to Finalist standing in the competition by meeting high academic standards and all other requirements.

Finalists

In February, some 15,000 Semifinalists advance to Finalist standing. The winners of Merit Scholarship awards are chosen from this group, based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. A variety of information is available for NMSC selectors to evaluate: the Finalist's academic record, information about the school's curricula and grading system, two sets of test scores, the high school official's written recommendation, information about the student's activities and leadership, and the Finalist's own essay.

Special Scholarships

Every year some 1,300 National Merit Program participants, who are outstanding but not Finalists, are awarded Special Scholarships provided by corporations and business organizations. To be considered for a Special Scholarship, students must meet the sponsor's criteria and entry requirements of the National Merit Scholarship Program and must submit detailed scholarship applications. A committee of NMSC professional staff evaluates information about candidates' abilities, skills, and accomplishments and chooses winners of the sponsor's Special Scholarships. These scholarships may either be renewable for four years of undergraduate study or one-time awards.

For more information about these awards, please visit the The National Merit Scholarship Corporation Website.