Wilson Gao

1. How did you feel when you heard that you were the finalist for the National Merit Scholarship?

It was a welcome surprise, to be honest. I’d completely forgotten about it since I’m busy with other things, so hearing it did bring a smile to my face.

2. What are some characteristics you believe helped you achieve this award?

I think some of my stronger points include responsibility and thoroughness, which I believe led me to receive this award.

3. What is your academic area of passion and why?

Save for the medical sciences, I’m passionate about practically anything and everything. I love to learn new things so that I can see the world in new ways.

4. What are you planning to pursue in college?

Currently, I plan on majoring in mechanical engineering and computer science, with minors in economics and music.

5. Do you know where you are going to college?

Graduated early from high school and currently attending Washington University in St. Louis.

6. What did you choose to write about in your main essay for the National Merit application? And why was it meaningful to you?

My essay titled “Hard-Headed” essentially details various experiences where I just powered through things, whether it be while playing chess, doing research, or solving a math problem. In it, I linked these scenarios to my physical head, which, as I mentioned in the essay, has been broken twice. Overall, it is a nice summary of who I am, describing both who I was when I was little versus where I am now.