Whiz Kid: Ziyao Wang, Presidential Scholar Finalist

A Montgomery Blair High School student was recently nominated as a finalist in the U.S Presidential Scholars Program.

Ziyao (Chacha) Wang, a graduating senior, shares this honor with three other students from the state of Maryland. She was nominated as one of 141 student finalists on Wednesday, May 2.

The evaluation process starts with about 3,300 nationwide candidates who send in their applications. From there, about 550 semifinalists are selected and then down to 141 finalists.

Each student is evaluated based on their academic achievements, leadership, personal character, contribution to school and community, and creativity through an evaluation and review process administered by the U.S. Department of Education.

On June 16, Wang and the other finalists head to Washington, D.C. to receive the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a recognition ceremony. They will also participate in various events held in their honor.

Stefanie Weldon, a Blair High School social studies teacher and mock trial coach, nominated Wang for this award.

“Chacha is that rare combination of exceptional intelligence, kindness, and humility that expresses itself in working for the greater good rather than just for herself,” Weldon said.

Wang says she is excited to be named a finalist, thanks her teacher for the nomination, and guidance through the rigorous application process.

"Now, I’m just super excited about the possibility of meeting President Obama. I want to thank our school and especially my recommender, Mrs.Weldon, for their support during the long application process. I'm really going to miss the fabulous Blair Magnet program next year; it has really given me a unique and valuable secondary education,” Wang said.

Once Wang graduates from Blair, she will be heading to University of Pennsylvania in the fall to be a part of their Vagelos Life Sciences & Management Program.