Douglas High seniors Jessica Reynolds and David Williams have been named semi-finalists for the National Merit Scholarship, a competition that recognizes student achievement in high schools across the country.
Reynolds and Williams are two of 16,000 students that will compete in the finals next February, yet both students have already experienced the prestige of being semi-finalists.
"Good titles mean lots of scholarships," said Reynolds.
Williams said different universities have been sending him letters since he was named a semi-finalist.
According to the students, the semi-finalist competition is based solely on students' Practice Standard Aptitude Test scores.
Both Reynolds and Williams scored in the 98th percentile. The final competition in February will employ a more comprehensive measure of achievement, including test scores, overall grade point average and an essay each semi-finalist must submit. Winners will receive various scholarships.
Despite the competition, both students have already made plans for their future.
Reynolds said she wants to go to University of Nevada, Reno, for her undergraduate work then move to another school for a graduate degree.
She said she wants to major in math and minor in music. One of her main goals is to help strengthen art departments in public schools. She also hopes to write a novel someday.
"Find out what you love and pursue it," said Reynolds.
Williams said he wants to go to school at either University of Southern California, Pepperdine University or California Institute of Technology.
He said he wants to major in biochemistry and minor in Spanish, then attend medical school. He said he's thinking of becoming a pediatrician.
"Take your education seriously," said Williams, when asked what advice he could give to younger students.
Both students said they would like to thank their 9th grade English teacher Susan VanDoren for helping them succeed.
Reynolds said she would also like to thank her math teacher, Debbie Barnes.
