Several Upper School students have recently been recognized in prestigious essay competitions, leadership programs and the National Merit Scholarship program: 

 

St. Margaret’s had 14 Upper School students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program, based on their performance in the PSAT taken as juniors. 

In total, three students were named National Merit semifinalists–Alexa Edwards, Andrew Rusli and Justin Tam–while another 11 received commendation. 

There are 1.5 million National Merit Scholarship entrants nationwide, with the top 3 percent receiving commendation, and the top 1 percent being named semifinalists. 

In February, semifinalists will be notified if they have advanced to be a National Merit Scholar finalist. From there, National Merit Scholarships are awarded to about 7,250 students nationwide based on abilities, skills and accomplishments. 

 Congratulations Tartans! 

National Merit Semifinalists: Alexa Edwards, Justin Tam, Andrew Rusli

National Merit Commended Students: Greta Blau, Daniel Cai, Evan Causee, Ian Ekvall, Abby Hancock, Mike He, Caden Isola, Charlotte Jiang, Daniel Lyons, Ethan Stolper, Emily Wallis. 

 

Upper School student Zoe Chen was selected as a finalist in the John Locke Institute Global Essay Competition recently. Her essay in the Economics category on the topic of challenging the societal and economic impact of titans of industries garnered recognition.  

 

The competition is noted for its reputation as a prestigious high school essay competition, in collaboration with Oxford and Princeton Universities, attracting 36,000 entries from over 100 countries.

 

Congratulations Zoe! 

 

Upper School student Kate Purpura was honored at the annual Girls State Recognition Program. 

 

Ms. Purpura participated in the Girls State program along with seven other high school students from South Orange County, sponsored by the ALA Unit 281 located in Laguna Niguel. The ALA is one of the nation’s most prominent supporters of youth educational opportunities such as Girls State. 

 

Girls State invites selected high school students in their junior year to develop leadership skills, learn more about the government, and encourage connections with peers across California.