Eight students from Archdiocese of Newark named National Merit semifinalists

Eight high school students from the Archdiocese of Newark have been named semifinalists in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Alessandra E. Boncaldo, Julianna G. Dail, and Sophia S. Lee from the Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest; Brian Song and Daniel Song from Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell; Thomas MacDougall from Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey; and Gavin R. Gerstenbluth and Jean Oh from St. Peter's Preparatory High School in Jersey City were selected based on their "exceptional scores" on the PSAT/NMSQT, placing them in the top 1% of over 1.3 million high school juniors nationwide.

As semifinalists, these students are now in the running for a share of nearly $26 million in scholarships that will be awarded to teens across the U.S. next year. To advance as finalists, they must maintain an outstanding academic record, earn an endorsement from a school official, write an essay, and submit SAT or ACT scores to confirm their PSAT/NMSQT performance. About 95% of semifinalists are expected to become finalists, with roughly half being named Merit Scholars.

Barbara Dolan, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of Newark, commended the students for their achievements, stating, "The students' commitment to their academic pursuits, as well as their leadership and community involvement, reflect the spirit of excellence and service Catholic schools strive to nurture in our students. We wish these students continued success as they move forward in the National Merit Scholarship process and prepare for their post-secondary education."

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation will announce the Merit Scholars in April, who will receive one of three scholarships: a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship, a corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship, or a college-sponsored Merit Scholarship.

In addition to the eight semifinalists, dozens of students from archdiocesan Catholic schools were recognized as Commended Scholars for scoring in the top 3-4% on the PSAT/NMSQT, receiving a letter of commendation from the NMSC in acknowledgement of their academic promise.

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