This year, senior Sam Williams became a National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalist based on his PSAT scores. Williams is described by his guidance counselor, Jarrod Ray, as “an exceptional student with a one-of-a-kind personality and demeanor, which makes him very likable.”
Williams scored in the top 1% in the nation, which has been “an achievement not reached by a Chapman student at least in 19 years,” Chapman Principal Matthew Davis said.
Davis is very proud of Williams but wants people to recognize that this reflects Williams’ work ethic and character.
“He’s an exceptional guy, a humble guy that works hard, and he really cares about people, so I’m really proud of him,” Davis said. “This award and achievement really epitomize his work effort.”
Williams is proud of what he has accomplished but wishes to remain humble about the recognition.
“I’m very proud of this achievement,” Williams said. “I have been taking the SAT since 9th grade, trying repeatedly to increase my score. The SAT has actually become a bit of a running joke in our house, with how many times my siblings and I have taken it. While the award is based on the PSAT scores, they are largely the same test. This award, to me, is a testament to the work I’ve done and the hours I’ve spent improving my score.”
Before breaking down his study strategies, Williams noted that preparing for the PSAT and SAT became a long-term effort.
“I’ve done a multitude of things to prepare for the SAT/PSAT,” Williams said. “The most helpful resource is, although I don’t want to admit it, Khan Academy. They offer a free course covering everything on the SAT. I also used a paid website called PrepScholar, which is a little more focused on the SAT and has an adaptive curriculum, but was not significantly more useful than Khan Academy. If I was to start from the beginning, I would probably only use Khan.”
He also emphasized the importance of learning alongside others.
“I also made use of Schoolhouse,” Williams said. “It’s a website that allows students to attend free SAT classes held by other students who have taken and done well on the SAT. It’s very helpful for looking at SAT material with someone who is familiar with it. I would also suggest that, if you’ve already taken the SAT and done well, to see if you’re eligible to be a Schoolhouse tutor. It looks very good on college applications.”
Ray explained the significance of the achievement and why it matters for students.
“The National Merit Scholarship is an honor because it recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional academic talent through scoring in the top 1% of all test-takers nationwide on the PSAT,” Ray said. “This recognition is considered a significant academic achievement, is a point of pride, and can lead to substantial scholarships and tuition benefits. Being a National Merit semifinalist can open doors to top colleges and can be a positive indicator of a student’s potential for success in rigorous college studies.”
Ray also shared how he has supported Williams throughout high school.
“I have worked with Sam to help him stay on track with his coursework, deadlines, and applications,” Ray said. “His dedication to his schoolwork has paid off with the high marks he has achieved.”
Davis hopes Williams’ success will inspire more students to participate in the PSAT during their junior year.
“I’m hoping that people will see this and more 11th graders will begin to take it seriously,” Davis said. “Historically, it’s not been a big deal; school is just a routine. Now I think he’s opened the door a little bit for more students here.
“People usually skip the PSAT in their 11th-grade year and jump straight to the SAT or ACT, but this is really such a big deal, too, and can give you scholarship funds.”
