Avon Students Named National Merit Finalists

AVON, OH — Two Avon High seniors have been named National Merit Finalists. Noah Petzinger, 17; and Alex Stamatis, 17, have both been named to the prestigious and exclusive group of high-performing students.

Both teenagers were named National Merit Semifinalists in September 2018. To become finalists, the duo had to submit scholarship applications that detailed their strong academic record and history of participation in school and community activities. Both students also had to demonstrate their leadership abilities, any job history, and list any of their other honors and awards.

Less than 1 percent of high school students are named National Merit Semifinalists. From there, about 90 percent of Semifinalists become Finalists.

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Here's the details on the two students, as provided by the Avon Schools:

Noah Petzinger: Parents- Brad and Mary Petzinger
School activities: Swimming, track, Key Club, National Honor Society
Potential college major: Computer Science
College(s) of interest: University of Pittsburgh, The Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Washington University
Hobbies: Reading, playing video games
Advice for other students: "Learn to enjoy learning. If you like doing it, you will enjoy learning."

Alex Stamatis: Parents- John and Fay Stamatis
School activities: Academic Challenge, Key Club, National Honor Society, Student Council, Junior Statesmen of America (JSA)
Potential college major(s): Business or law
College of interest: The Ohio State University
Hobbies: Reading, playing basketball
Advice for other students: "Academics are important. It prepares you for life...if you are working hard, it will translate into other areas."

Photo from Avon Schools