Of the approximately 1.6 million entrants who take the PSAT/NMSQT qualifying test each year, only the highest-scoring entrants from each state qualify as semi-finalists. Legacy’s own Drew Davison was recently named to this list: a National Merit Semi-Finalist. Following this qualification, we called on Drew to share some of his journey with us.
What did it feel like to be notified of this recognition? I was very excited when I opened the email from Mrs. McIntosh saying that I was a National Merit Semi-Finalist. I had completely forgotten that it was a possibility as the PSAT was so long ago, but it was a very nice surprise when I came home from school.
What prep/work did you do throughout the years to help for this test? I did not prep specifically for the PSAT or SAT, but the summer going into my junior year, I worked really hard on ACT prep. I did tutoring sessions and practice tests for three hours a week during the summer. All of the classes that I have taken at Legacy also prepared me for the test. Taking Algebra II and Pre-Calculus with Mr. O’Neal the two years leading up to the test also had a significant impact on my understanding of math.
Drew’s teachers have high regard for his contributions and commitment to academic excellence. A dual credit US History professor shares that Drew “writes incredible papers and shines in group discussions, where he provided strong insights backed with solid evidence. As a result, he emerged as an educational leader among his peers.” Commenting further on Drew’s leadership, Kevin Mosley describes Drew through keywords, such as “dependable, impeccable, analytical, team-focused.” Such keywords, he continues, Drew has consistently demonstrated throughout his various roles at Legacy.
NHS Officers Drew Davison, Jonathan Darrel, Trent Balcombe, and Adam Lisle jump for joy after collecting food for Frisco Fastpacs
What were some of your favorite activities and leadership roles to be involved in at Legacy or in the community? My favorite activities at Legacy have been my involvement in the band as a trombone player, winning the state championship all three years, as well as my time serving as an Officer with the National Honor Society. I have loved planning projects and serving the school and community alongside the other NHS Officers, who are some of my best friends.
Beyond the academics, the Director of Bands paints us a picture of Drew’s character, stating that the trombone section leader “has a quiet strength about him. He is strong in conviction, strong in intellect, strong in talent, and incredibly reliable. Drew is a man of his word; what he says, he does.” An NHS sponsor says this about the 11th grader: “Drew has great ideas, works diligently to implement those ideas and contributes actively for the advancement of the organization.” He is a high-achiever in and out of the classroom, in his PSAT/NMSQT test score and in his character.
What are some of your future college or career plans? I just got my acceptance from Duke and will be attending there next fall. I would like to get a business degree and study finance.
Whatever the future may hold, Legacy is proud of you, Drew! We wish you all the best at Duke and in the journey ahead.