Two Rivers Students Named National Merit Semifinalists

Two Rivers High School is proud to announce our 2025 National Merit Semifinalists. Congratulations to Elizabeth Barnes and Quinn Keyes. These two outstanding Two Rivers seniors scored in the top 1% nationally on the PSAT!

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. High school students enter this program by taking the Preliminary SAT and meeting published program entry and participation requirements.

Around 1.5 million students participate in this exam every year. Of those students, about 16,000 have scores that qualify them as Semifinalists. Students selected as National Merit Semifinalists have the opportunity to fulfill requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the scholarship competition. National Merit Finalists will be announced in February.

We asked Elizabeth and Quinn a few questions about preparing for the PSAT and academic success at Two Rivers and advice for making the most of their high school experience. Here’s what they had to say.

What subjects or areas of study are you most passionate about, and why?

Elizabeth: I’m interested in a lot of subjects, but especially science (I really enjoy biology and my physics class so far this year) and world languages. I’m also a saxophonist and hope to continue playing music in college.

Advice for under classmates to get ready for high school and make the most of it?

Elizabeth: I would say don’t be afraid to challenge yourself with your classes— you can always drop a class if it’s too difficult, and there are definitely classes that I wish I’d taken, but originally thought they’d be too hard. My other advice would be try to get involved in extracurriculars if you can! It’s great for meeting people and finding a community, and can build lots of skills as well, and help you find things you’re passionate about.

What extracurricular activities do you participate in? 

Elizabeth: My main extracurriculars are jazz band and debate. My experience in jazz band has definitely inspired me to continue playing in college, and debate has been a really huge influence in so many areas of my life.

What do you think has been the key to your academic success?

Quinn: I think the other awesome people in my classes have allowed me to thrive. I am surrounded by supportive friends who find equal, if not greater, success in their classes and activities. We push each other to be our best selves and help each other when we are struggling. I would not enjoy school, and consequently do as well if it wasn't for this dynamic.

How has Two Rivers helped prepare you for the PSAT?

Quinn: Two Rivers offers a more rigorous course option for most subjects which has been beneficial for me because I can engage with material and concepts that push me. Being able to stay engaged on a daily basis helps me prepare for challenges and tests such as the PSAT.

What extracurricular activities do you participate in? 

Quinn: I participate in cross country, Nordic skiing, track and field, LINK Crew, NHS, Student Council, Key Club, and JSU. My sports have allowed me to spend time out in nature and the clubs allow me to serve something bigger than myself. All of these activities are in part why I'm considering focusing on doing something with sustainability, though I'm not 100% sure that's what I want to do yet.

Congratulations, Elizabeth and Quinn!