Lufkin ISD is proud to recognize our outstanding students for their achievements in the National Merit Scholarship Program! Congratulations to Aanvi Manda, who has been named a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist, and Katherine Goodman and Tripp McManus, who have been recognized as National Merit Commended Students!
These prestigious honors recognize exceptional academic achievement, dedication, and hard work. We are incredibly proud of Aanvi, Katherine, and Tripp for representing Lufkin High School with excellence and for their commitment to academic success. Their accomplishments reflect the talent, determination, and bright futures of our Panther students!
Congratulations, Aanvi, Katherine, and Tripp! Lufkin ISD is Panther proud!
Interview with Aanvi Manda:
1. What do you think has contributed most to your academic success throughout high school?
My parents have been my biggest supporters. They have always encouraged me to stay on top of my responsibilities and push myself to do my best in school.
2. Is there a teacher, mentor, family member, or experience that has had a meaningful impact on your academic journey?
My parents have had the greatest impact on my academic journey. They have always been there for me, offering support and helping me with whatever I need.
3. What are you most looking forward to as you finish high school and prepare for your next chapter?
I’m excited to go to college, meet new people, and explore what I want to study. At the same time, I know I’m going to miss the memories I’ve made and the friendships I’ve built at Lufkin High School.
4. Where do you want to go to college, and what do you plan to major in?
I want to major in computer science, and I’m still applying to different colleges. I would love to attend the University of Texas.
5. What advice would you give to younger students who are working toward their own academic goals?
Be persistent and always try your best. Turn in every assignment, complete your work, and try not to slack off. Even if you don’t earn the highest grade on every assignment, consistently putting in the effort and turning in your work will lead to good results.
6. What does it mean to you to be a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist?
I’m really excited about it! I’ve been taking the PSAT since eighth grade, and for years, we’ve been encouraged to earn a good score and work toward receiving recognition. After hearing that for so long, it’s exciting to see my hard work pay off. I’m really proud and happy to receive this recognition!
Interview with Kate Goodman:
1. What do you think has contributed most to your academic success throughout high school?
I challenge myself by taking difficult classes, putting in time and effort outside of school, and staying on top of my responsibilities.
2. Is there a teacher, mentor, family member, or experience that has had a meaningful impact on your academic journey?
My mom has had a big impact on me. She’s a really hard worker and has gone through a lot of schooling, so I look up to her and the example she sets. One teacher who has also made a difference in my academic journey is Mr. Schultz. I’ve had him for two years, and he has been incredibly helpful both inside and outside the classroom.
3. What are you most looking forward to as you finish high school and prepare for your next chapter?
I’m looking forward to going to college, experiencing college life, and studying something I’m passionate about. I’m also excited to prepare for the next step in my education and work toward my goal of becoming a doctor.
4. Where do you want to go to college, and what do you plan to major in?
I hope to attend either the University of Texas or Texas A&M University, where I plan to study neuroscience before continuing on to medical school. My goal is to become a doctor.
5. What advice would you give to younger students who are working toward their own academic goals?
My advice is to go to class, complete your assignments, and pay attention. School may not be as difficult as it seems when you put in effort both inside and outside the classroom. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, either. There are many teachers here who are passionate about what they do and genuinely want to help you succeed.
Interview with Tripp McManus:
1. What do you think has contributed most to your academic success throughout high school?
My work ethic has played a big role in my academic success. I make it a priority to stay on top of my assignments and grades, turn in my work on time, and make sure I don’t miss anything. I always strive to do my best and succeed in everything I take on.
2. Is there a teacher, mentor, family member, or experience that has had a meaningful impact on your academic journey?
Both of my parents have served as parents and mentors throughout my academic journey. They have helped me succeed by setting an example through their strong work ethic, both inside and outside of school. I would consider them two of my biggest mentors. Another person who has made a meaningful impact on me is Mrs. Holcomb. Through her work with BPA, she helped me discover my interest in business and accounting and gave me opportunities to excel in that area.
3. What are you most looking forward to as you finish high school and prepare for your next chapter?
I’m looking forward to going to college and focusing on the areas of business and accounting that I’m most passionate about. I’m excited to take classes that align with my interests and allow me to dive deeper into what I love most. College will give me the opportunity to explore my chosen field and build a foundation for my future career.
4. Where do you want to go to college, and what do you plan to major in?
I’m still deciding which college I want to attend, but I’ve narrowed it down to a few schools. I plan to double major in business and applied mathematics.
5. What advice would you give to younger students who are working toward their own academic goals?
My advice is to stay on top of your responsibilities and avoid waiting until the last minute to get things done. Start assignments ahead of time, stay organized, and don’t procrastinate. Getting things done when they need to be done will help you manage your time more effectively and make school feel less overwhelming.