To be a National Merit Semifinalist, one must display astounding proficiency in math and English, scoring in the top one percent of the state on the 11th grade PSAT exam.

For some, that means simple review and a clear mind.

Pranav Sreekumar, senior, said his success on the exam came down to two things: a good night’s sleep and a few practice tests.

“I mainly just reviewed some of the concepts,” Sreekumar said.

For others, that meant intense preparation.

Neha Bharadwaj, senior, started studying six months before the date of the test. She took eight tests and worked three to four hours each week in its leadup.

Bharadwaj said the honor of being named a National Merit Semifinalist outweighed all of the work she’d done in preparation.

“I never really thought that would happen,” Bharadwaj said. “But that being said, it is very humbling to know that the hard work is paying off.”

The Class of 2018 has 15 National Merit Semifinalists, the second largest number in St. Louis and the most in school history.

Principal Dr. Greg Mathison said the students’ achievements stem from their work rate.

“It’s about the kids’ perseverance in getting things done, all the homework, all the tests, all the learning that they’ve done,” Dr. Mathison said.

“It’s only natural for those who people who should celebrate this historic event. It is a big, big deal.”

Dr. Mathison said while he tries not to pay attention to rankings, the scores show that MHS students are excelling on a number of levels.

“We know we have great kids and great teachers, and a wonderful community that supports us,” Dr. Mathison said. “It’s just another way to say we’re doing good things within our school and our kids are excelling at high levels.”