Mound Westonka High School Principal Jolene Herfel congratulates National Merit Semifinalists Raul Jordan and Rohan Nella
September 12, 2024 — Mound Westonka High School seniors Raul Jordan and Rohan Nella have earned a distinguished place among high schoolers nationwide as semifinalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. They are now eligible to continue in the competition for 6,870 National Merit Scholarships, totaling nearly $26 million, which will be awarded next spring.
"Both Rohan and Raul are fantastic academic leaders at MWHS," said Principal Jolene Herfel. "Each has a deep-rooted commitment to high-level academics, accepting the challenge of relentless intellectual growth."
"In addition, while incredibly motivated, both young men are truly kind and lead by example in many areas of our school," Herfel continued. "Their efforts are honored by this accomplishment. I am proud of their success and leadership at MWHS."
Over 1.3 million high school juniors entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. This test served as an initial screening tool, narrowing the pool to more than 16,000 semifinalists. These top scorers represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and are the highest achievers in each state.
According to a press release from the National Merit Scholarship Program, about 95 percent of semifinalists are expected to advance to finalist status. From this group, roughly half will ultimately be awarded a scholarship.
To move forward as a finalist, a semifinalist, along with a high school official, must submit a comprehensive scholarship application. This application includes details about the semifinalist’s academic record, involvement in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership skills, employment history, and any honors or awards received.
National Merit Scholarship winners of 2025 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July.
