Edgar Thornton, a senior here at City High, has qualified as a semifinalist for the National Achievement Scholarship Award. It’s similar to the National Merit Scholarship, but it’s aimed towards African American students. Thornton was delighted due to the honor.

“I was excited when I learned I had gotten it,” Thornton said. “It’s an opportunity to show the that work I’ve done and what i’ve learned from all the great teachers that I’ve had.”

Over 160,000 students apply nationwide while taking the PSAT, but only 1,600 students have a high enough score to qualify as a semifinalist. and only 1,300 students are notified that they are finalists. Then, 800 students are selected for the Achievement Scholarship based on their skills and accomplishments.

There are two different types of scholarships given to the Achievement Scholarship winners. One is a single payment scholarship for $2500, and it’s given to around 700 students. The other type of scholarship is a corporate-sponsored Achievement Scholarship, given to those who plan on pursuing specific college majors or careers. These scholarships are either a one-time award or renewable for four years of undergraduate studies. Only 100 corporate-sponsored are given each year.

“I’m hoping to receive the $2500 award,” Thornton said. “It would be amazing.”