Girard Student Named National Merit Scholarship Finalist

A Girard, Ohio high school senior just earned his place among the nation's brightest students, and his journey is only beginning.

Dylan Trevelline has been named a finalist for the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, putting him in competition for one of about 7,000 scholarships that will be awarded this spring. Out of more than 1.3 million students who entered the program, only 15,000 made it to finalist status.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation, a nonprofit organization, runs the prestigious program to recognize and honor top scholastic talent from high schools across America. Students enter by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test during their junior year.

Trevelline's achievement represents years of dedication and hard work. But for him, the motivation goes deeper than test scores or college applications.

"I feel it is a noble profession," Trevelline said about his plans to pursue a pre-med track in college. "Seeing how doctors have affected my family members' lives has pushed me to want to follow this career path."

His personal connection to medicine adds meaning to every hour spent studying and every challenge overcome. The experience of watching healthcare professionals care for his loved ones inspired him to want to do the same for others.

Why This Inspires

Trevelline's story reminds us that behind every academic achievement is a young person with dreams bigger than themselves. His desire to pursue medicine didn't come from wanting prestige or earning potential. It came from witnessing compassion in action and wanting to extend that same care to others.

Girard High School Principal Scott Libert recognized what sets Trevelline apart goes beyond raw intelligence. "His dedication, intellectual curiosity, and perseverance have truly set him apart," Libert said. "We are incredibly proud of Dylan and excited to see all that he will accomplish in the future."

The principal's words highlight something important: success at this level requires more than natural ability. It takes sustained effort, genuine curiosity, and the determination to keep pushing forward when challenges arise.

As spring approaches and scholarship decisions are made, Trevelline represents not just academic excellence but the promise of a future doctor who already understands what matters most in medicine: using knowledge and skill to help others heal.

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