Justin Zumbahlen Named Commended Student in 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program

Justin Zumbahlen, son of Phil and Judy Zumbahlen, has been named a commended student in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program. The press release for this honor states, “Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 scorers of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2020 competition by taking the 2018 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT)
Justin was able to take time from his busy schedule which recently included being on the homecoming court, and also includes basketball, tennis, Beta Club, Science Club, Spanish Club and Math Club, to answer a few questions about his education at NCHS and his future plans.
When asked who one of his most inspirational people in his educational career (with the option to list more than one), Justin responded, “One of the most inspirational people in my educational career was Mrs. Goebel (Judith Goebel). She taught me much of what I know in Biology from Biology 1 and 2 freshmen and sophomore year and helped me develop a love for science. Her rigorous classes also made me feel more prepared for higher-level courses. My parents have also been very inspirational in my educational career. They have always supported me and encouraged me in my academics.”
He also states, “I am most interested in science in general, but more specifically Anatomy and Physiology. Science is my favorite subject and I’ve enjoyed learning about the human body and its processes.”
After high school, Justin has plans to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy at a four year university.
We also asked Justin “How do you feel NCHS has prepared you for these plans?”  and “What suggestions would you have for a student who is upcoming in high school to be able to succeed academically?”
Justin responded with, ” I feel NCHS has prepared me well. I am confident in the education I’ve received here and my ability to succeed in college. The classes I’ve taken, especially the dual credit classes, have shown me what to expect from the courses I’ll take in college.”, and “I would suggest that they develop consistent study habits. Setting aside a time specifically for studying can help push you to actually put the effort in and study. Another thing I would suggest would be to ask questions in class. I feel like a lot of students think it’s bad to ask questions; they don’t want their peers to look down on them. But asking questions is usually the best way to learn and retain what you talk about in class.”
Congratulations Justin on this honor and best of luck in your future endeavors!