HAFTR Student Wins National Merit Scholarship

’s 2011 salutatorian recently found out that she has another distinct honor — being one of 2,500 students awarded the National Merit Scholarship.

Lauren Hoffman, 17, was selected as a winner of the $2,500 award last month out of more than 15,000 finalists. She said she would use the money to either reduce her tuition at Princeton University or to cover some costs to study abroad.

“It feels great to be recognized and rewarded for my hard work,” she said. “It came as quite a surprise, but I'm thrilled about it.”

National Merit Scholarship finalists possess “the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies,” according to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. A committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors serve as the judges. The awards may be used at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university.

Being considered for the National Merit Scholarship award is no small feat. Applicants must receive high grades on the PSATs and the SATs, have a good record in school that involves difficult courses, participate in extracurricular and community activities and have the recommendation of a school official. The applicants must also submit an essay.

“I wrote my essay about my involvement in HAFTR's school plays, of which I am the student director/stage manager,” Hoffman said. “My parents and friends have always supported my efforts and inspired me, but I would say that I'm largely self-motivated. I do, however, look to those who are self-made successes as role models.”

Naomi Lippman, HAFTR High School’s principal of general studies, had nothing but good things to say about Hoffman.

“Lauren Hoffman is an extraordinarily wonderful young woman,” she said. “The National Merit Scholarship award is yet another reflection of how unique and outstanding this young woman is. She’s an intelligent, enthusiastic learner who embraces learning, not for the GPA or merit score, but because she wants to learn and synthesize in a brilliant way.”

Hoffman took on some of the most challenging courses at the school while also directing the student play, being a part of the art institute and engaging in community service, Lippman said. As the 2011 salutatorian, Hoffman has the second highest GPA in general and Judaic studies, weighted for all the classes.

“She’s like a renaissance woman. I expect great things for her,” Lippman said. “I do not say that lightly. Whatever path she chooses, she will excel and achieve.”

That path is wide open for the 17-year-old, as Hoffman plans to study many topics at Princeton until she finds something she’s passionate for, she said. And for any student that wants to follow her path in winning the National Merit Scholarship award, Hoffman recommends scoring high on the PSATs. But it seems motivation is the real key to her success.

“I know I'll need a good education to be able to accomplish everything I want to, and, practically speaking, to compete in the professional world,” she said. “Also, I just enjoy learning.”