Presidential Scholars sound like such an honorable distinction, and I'm really interested in understanding how one can achieve this recognition. As someone who's passionate about both academics and extracurricular activities, I'm curious what specific achievements or qualities they look for. Is it based just on academic excellence, or do they consider leadership and service too? I'd love to hear from someone who's gone through the process or knows more about the selection criteria. Thanks for any tips or details you can share!
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is indeed a highly prestigious recognition for high school seniors. It was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize and honor some of the nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors.
The selection process for Presidential Scholars is quite rigorous and involves several steps. Every year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.
There are three primary pathways to becoming a Presidential Scholar:
1. High scoring students: The first pathway is based on academic success as quantified by standardized tests. Each year, the top performing students on the SAT and ACT are identified for the program.
2. Arts Scholars and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Scholars: The second pathway is through a nominations process. There are two categories under this: Arts and CTE Scholars. Arts Scholars are recognized for their talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts, and need to initially apply through the YoungArts national competition. CTE Scholars are recognized for their accomplishment in career and technical education fields.
3. Special nomination: The third pathway is by receiving a special nomination. These nominations are usually submitted by the Chief State School Officer (CSSO), the partner recognition organization, or one of the Presidential Scholars Program's partner recognition organizations.
Once candidates are identified, they are invited to apply to the program. This application involves essays, self-assessment, secondary school reports, and transcripts—a chance for candidates to showcase their community service, leadership, and commitment to high ideals.
The selection process is then conducted by the Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens. They select Scholars based on their academic success, artistic or technical excellence, essays, school evaluations, transcripts, and evidence of community service, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
Finally, the Scholars will be recognized for their achievements during the National Recognition Program, typically held in June in Washington, D.C.
Good luck as you contemplate this journey. It's indeed a high honor and it's great to see your drive to strive for excellence!
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