Q: How did it feel to be a national merit scholar semi-finalist?

A: It was amazing.  My brother had been a national merit finalist and so it was cool that I get to be one.

Q: What is this honor so important?

A: It shows me that my hard work is paying off.

Q: How do people around the country and colleges view national merit scholars?

A: It’s prestigious and certain colleges will give out full rides but most colleges that I’ve seen will give out a thousand dollars a year which is nice but to get the full ride you have to go to a big state school and I’m looking for smaller schools.

Q: What factors contribute to becoming a finalist?

A: Doing really well on the PSAT gets you the semi-finalist.  I had to fill out an application for finalist and there was an essay I had to write. I have to submit my SAT scores to see that it is legitimate that I did well on the SATs and then I have to provide my transcript.

Q: Where do you want to go to college? What do you want to study?

A: I’m looking at DePaul and Augustana.  Completely undecided.

Q: What advice would you give to underclassmen about high school?

A: I would say work hard but don’t stress about it too much.

Q: What does being a national merit semi-finalist mean to you?

A: It’s an honor and I’m proud of myself and I feel good about it.

Q: What opportunities does this honor bring?

A: Furthering my education in college.