By Molly Mercaldo – Entertainment Editor

Priya Gupta, a senior at Jonathan Law High School, recently earned the title of National Merit Commended Scholar from the College Board. To accomplish this, Gupta needed to place in the top 3.1% of students nationwide in the Preliminary SAT. This test is taken by about 1.6 million students every year. Gupta is one of three students in the Milford Public Schools to receive this award this year. Entertainment Editor Molly Mercaldo interviewed Gutpa about her accomplishment.

Molly Mercaldo: What steps did you take to accomplish this goal?

Priya Gupta: I took an SAT English class and studied with review books. I also took practice tests before the test day which helped me feel prepared.

MM: How does being a National Merit Commended Scholar affect you?

PG: It gave me confidence going to take other standardized tests and it showed that my hard work paid off.

MM: What colleges are you looking at?

PG: I’ve applied to Boston University, George Washington University, and Brown. My decision will depend on what program I get into, because I want to get into an 8-year medical program.

MM: What advice would you give to others hoping to accomplish this?

PG: Taking practice tests is really important because it get you familiar with the format of the test.

MM: How do you feel you are doing academically?

PG: I think I’m doing well. I hope to keep my grades up for the last two quarters.