News Article

FSWC-Lee Student Named 2018 National Merit Scholarship Finalist

Apr 26, 2018

APRIL 26, 2018 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Florida SouthWestern Collegiate High School-Lee student Sofiya Yusina has been named a 2018 National Merit Scholarship Finalist by the National Merit Scholarship Program.

To participate in the National Merit Scholarship Program, students must take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Of the 1.6 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index scores qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Students then must take the SAT to confirm their score, and submit an essay and letters of recommendation to be named a finalist.

Yusina is dual-enrolled and will receive her associate in arts degree from FSW this May, prior to receiving her high school diploma. She plans to attend either Princeton University or the University of Pennsylvania and major in biochemistry.

Born in Moscow, Russia, Yusina and her family moved to Florida five years ago. She credits her parents for helping her build and understand the importance of a strong work ethic.

“My parents inspire me to work as hard as I can,” said Yusina. “They grew up in relatively small towns very far from each other. It was their incredible work ethic and success at school that helped them get into one of the best universities in Russia, where they met. If they didn't work hard, I wouldn't exist.”

“My advice to other students is to find a personal source of motivation,” Yusina said. “My motivation is to fulfill my potential and take advantage of the opportunities I am given.”

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Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees, and professional certifications. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW debuted its intercollegiate athletics program in January 2016. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information.

Last Updated: April 26, 2018