in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s
graduating high school seniors.
These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions
officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial
amount of information submitted by both the Finalists and their high
schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects
studied and grades earned; scores from two standardized tests;
contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an
essay written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high
school official.
By the conclusion of this year’s competition, about 7,500 academic
champions will have won National Merit Scholarships worth
approximately $33 million.
Yein listed her probable course of study to be academia.
For more information, go to nationalmerit.org.
SETON LASALLE STUDENT ACCEPTED
TO BOTH NAVAL ACADEMY AND WEST
POINT
Seton LaSalle’s Joe Farnan
has the rare opportunity to
choose between the Naval
Academy and West Point after
procuring letters of assurance
from both schools, a feat that
has taken years of hard work.
“I’ve always wanted to be
in the military,” he says. “It’s a
very noble job and requires a
lot of sacrifice.”
Farnan credits his brother,
Michael, also a Seton LaSalle
alumnus and an officer in the
Marine Corps, for inspiring
him to join the military.
“By being an officer in the
Marines, he showed me that I could do it too,” Farnan said.
However, achieving his goal was not easy. The process for applying
to the service academies is much different than the traditional
college route. Taking almost a full year to complete the application,
candidates must apply to the service academy of their choice then
separately apply to members of Congress for the nomination.
Farnan received nominations from both Senator Pat Toomey and
Representative Tim Murphy. Murphy even made an appearance at the
school for an assembly.
“It was a very humbling experience; I was expecting some
recognition but not that,” Farnan said. “I was surprised, and everyone
seemed really happy for me.”
In the end, Farnan chose the Naval Academy, where he will study
nuclear engineering. After graduation, he plans to stay in the Navy
going forward: “I’ve always wanted to serve the country and I’m
happy to have this opportunity.”
—By Anthony Mendicino n
Tra
Breakfast with the Bunny & Egg Hunts
412.835.3246
www.traxfarms.com
Strawberry Festival
June 11-12, 10am-4pm
Strawberry Treats, Childrens Activities,
Games & Great Food!
Strawberry Picking Times online!
Summer Wine Festival
June 25, Noon-5pm
Local Wineries, Artists
Live Music & Great Food!
Tickets on Sale Now.
Call 412.835.3246 x 114
Iris & Daylily Show
July 9, All Day
Come see the beauty
of a perfect bloom!
Craft
Beer
528 Trax Road
Finleyville, Pa 15332
Upper St. Clair | Summer 2016 | icmags.com 15