Senior Spotlight – From PSAT to Pilates: Bobby M.’s Senior Year Stretch at GWUOHS

Last fall, we introduced the GWUOHS community to Bobby M., then a standout junior who had just been named a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. In that original feature, Bobby shared how his academic focus, strategic preparation, and the flexibility of online learning helped him achieve one of the nation’s most prestigious academic recognitions. “The key to performing well is to manage your time wisely,” he said at the time. “You have to find a study method that works for you and create an environment where you can succeed.”

Now, as he prepares to graduate, we’re catching up with Bobby—and celebrating another major milestone: National Merit Finalist.

“I found out I was a finalist in mid-February,” Bobby said during a recent interview. “It was a very similar process to applying to college—an essay, SAT scores, transcripts, and a full resume. I was glad to make it to the next round.” Finalists represent the top 1% of high school seniors nationwide, and Bobby is now part of a highly competitive pool of 15,000 students eligible to receive one of 7,000 National Merit Scholarships to be awarded later this spring.

In the earlier spotlight, Bobby credited GWUOHS’s Journeys program—a four-year, college and career readiness curriculum—as one of the reasons he was able to stay organized and focused on long-term goals. Now, that same program is helping him close out his high school journey through a senior Capstone Project. True to the spirit of pushing boundaries and trying something new, Bobby chose a subject outside his academic or athletic interests: Pilates.

“My sisters and mom are really into it, so I thought it would be fun—and definitely different,” he said with a laugh. “It’s been a learning stretch for me, which is the whole point. The Capstone pushes us to develop a skill or area we wouldn’t normally explore.”

He plans to present his final product as a recorded demonstration, highlighting both the physical and mental benefits of the practice. “It’s taught me a lot about discipline in a new way, and I think I’ll be able to speak to the experience with confidence by the time I present.”

While stepping out of his comfort zone academically, Bobby has remained grounded in his lifelong passion: tennis. A dedicated competitive player for six to seven years, he continues to train regularly and compete in tournaments. That dedication to sport, combined with his academic prowess, helped him earn admission to his top-choice school—Fordham University—where he’ll enroll this fall in the Gabelli School of Business.

“Fordham stood out because of its strong business program,” he shared. “I’m leaning toward majoring in finance, but I like that I’ll be able to explore different tracks before deciding. I also hope to play tennis there—it’s something I’ve worked really hard at.”

Reflecting on his time at GWUOHS, Bobby points to the consistent support he’s received from teachers and counselors. “My counselor has been incredibly helpful, especially during the Capstone and college process,” he said. “I’ve always felt like I had someone to check in with and help guide me forward.”

From the habits he established in early high school to the growth he’s experienced through Capstone, Bobby’s story is a full-circle testament to what’s possible at GWUOHS. His journey—from earning top PSAT scores and becoming a National Merit Semifinalist, to finalizing his college plans and stepping into new territory through Pilates—embodies the school’s mission to foster academic excellence, independence, and personal growth.

Congratulations to Bobby on his continued success. We were honored to feature him last year, and even prouder to highlight him now as a graduating senior in the GWUOHS Class of 2025.