Among this year’s accomplished graduating class at Donahue Academy are two especially outstanding seniors who have earned recognition through the National Merit Scholarship Program. Vivian Luzarraga is a National Merit Commended Scholar, and Finalist Luke Velasco has been awarded the National Merit Insperity Scholarship, which is one of the corporate scholarships sponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
To qualify as a National Merit Commended Scholar, students need to score in the top 3% to 4% nationally on the PSAT/NMSQT. To advance to finalist status, semifinalists must complete a detailed application including essays, transcripts, recommendations and SAT/ACT scores that confirm their PSAT/NMSQT performance. Luke achieved a perfect score of 1520 on the test, and both he and Vivian scored extremely well on their SATs, landing in the 99th percentile.
Each of these gifted students recognize the importance of preparing early for the qualifying tests. Luke indicated that he “is honored to receive recognition for countless hours of studying for college entrance tests,” and thanks his parents “for pushing me to start studying early, and always supporting me.”
Vivian echoed similar sentiments, stating that “it is very rewarding to be recognized for consistent hard work,” especially considering all the effort that has gone into her preparation for the tests as well as the college admissions process in general.
At Donahue Academy, students are exposed to the PSAT/NMSQT beginning in Grade 9, and they continue to take the test through Grade 11 so that they have exposure to the material on the tests and experience in managing their time to complete it.
By the time they take the SAT, typically in the spring of junior year and the fall of senior year, they will have taken the PSAT three times, and have had ample opportunity to practice and hone their skills. Through a rich and varied classical curriculum, Donahue students are well trained in critical thinking, reading, writing and mathematics, which prepares them well for college entrance exams, as well as for the challenges of college courses that lie ahead of them.
While Luke and Vivian have excelled in these tests and have achieved outstanding recognition for their efforts, they view this as only one element in the journey toward college. Each of them also has achieved high grades and honors throughout their years at Donahue, and they have contributed to campus life through a variety of sports, extracurricular activities and leadership roles. They credit their parents, faculty and staff for their support which has led them to great success, and ultimately declare that “all glory goes to God for His gifts.” Amen!
