James Gong and Elijah Ewell from Guilderland High School have achieved the honor of being named finalists for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship, highlighting their remarkable commitment to educational excellence.
“We are very proud of James and Elijah. This is an impressive academic achievement and is a recognition of years of hard work and dedication,” said Principal Mike Piscitelli.
National Merit Scholarship Finalists represent a distinguished group of high school seniors, totaling around 15,000 top scorers (approximately 95% of semifinalists) who advance in the National Merit Scholarship Corporation program. To qualify, students must:
- Maintain outstanding academic records
- Submit a scholarship application that includes an essay
- Obtain endorsement from their high school
- Confirm their high PSAT scores with SAT or ACT results
“Elijah is a mature, creative, and intrinsically motivated individual with a passion for learning and a strong intellectual curiosity that sets him apart from his peers,” stated his school counselor, Ashley Kaplan. “In the classroom, he serves as a positive influence and a natural leader, earning respect from his teachers and classmates for his contributions,” she added. Beyond academics, Elijah shines as a gifted gymnast, having won multiple national gold medals in competitions. He is also a devoted volunteer, skillfully managing his time between national events, and community service like volunteering at a local homeless shelter.
James is a driven individual, widely recognized for his empathy, academic excellence, and organizational skills. “He is often the first student to make sure others feel included, valued, and heard,” said his school counselor, Lauren Gagnon. “James volunteers at the local food bank, is a National Honor Society member and is set to make lasting contributions in the future.” He enjoys traveling, learning about various cultures and being culturally competent. James is dedicated to personal growth and has a passion for cooking and composing music. As a member of the varsity tennis team and a participant in the Empire State Youth Symphony Orchestra, he has cultivated a strong sense of dedication and consistency.