By Mubarrat Choudhury
The PSAT is the first step in the yearlong National Merit search, which recognizes seniors from across the country for their academic achievement. Six Richardson students were selected this year, the most the school has ever had.
“I am absolutely ecstatic about all the kids that have made it to the semi-finalist round,” BC Calculus teacher Chad Gilliland said. “Each and every single one of those kids I either had in class last year, or I have in class this year. I’m very happy for all of them.”
The six seniors, Raisa Ifquat, Errol Jordheim, Ian Miller, Olivia Posner, Patrick Ralston and Emily White will learn if they become finalists in late February.
Students are selected based on their PSAT score from junior year, and those who score in the top 99.5 percentile become semifinalists. Average scores for National Merit Semifinalists can range from 220 to a perfect 240.
“I knew I had done pretty well on the PSATs but I didn’t expect to really be recognized for it,” senior Raisa Ifquat said. “So I was really excited to find out that I was a semifinalist. Right now, to become a finalist, all I have to do is write a stellar essay and hope for the best.”
Students become finalists by submitting an SAT score that confirms their PSAT score. They also must maintain an outstanding academic record, write an essay and provide a recommendation letter from a school official.
“I’m really excited to have earned the semifinalist distinction,” Miller said. “I’m hoping to become a finalist. I also have to give a shout out to the RHS PSAT class. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am.”