One Poplarville High School senior was recently recognized as 2017 National Merit Semifinalist.
Zachary Couvillion is among the 16,000 students nationwide named as semifinalists based on their Preliminary SAT scores (PSAT). To become a semifinalist, students must score within the top 1 percent on their PSAT in their respective state.
Zach is now eligible to compete for National Merit finalist status, which is based on the students’ completed application, SAT score and letters of recommendation from previous educators and administrators. As finalists, students will compete for several scholarship opportunities, as the National Merit Scholarship Program will award almost $32 million by spring 2018.
Zach is the only student named as a National Merit semifinalist in Pearl River county for the Class of 2018.
“It says a lot to have a semifinalists at a school of our size,” Poplarville High School principal Jon Will said. “This is not only a testament to Zach’s hard work, but also the rigorous instruction he has received.”
Zach’s top college choice is UC Berkley. He is still deciding on a major, but he has his interests narrowed down. He is deciding between Mathematics, Astrophysics and Evolutionary Biology. Zach’s primary choices for in-state colleges are Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi.
Zach is involved in Beta Club, Writing Club and Student Council at Poplarville High School. He holds a 4.07 GPA and a 33 ACT score.