Paris High School Student Awarded $25,000

The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc. recently announced that Paris High School senior Johnathan Young is among the 106 high school seniors who are the recipients of its esteemed 2023 Horatio Alger National Scholarship. As a National Scholar, Young will receive a $25,000 college scholarship and access to various association-provided resources, including counseling and referral services, career exploration opportunities, and alums connections. In addition, each month, Young is required to attend virtual meetings and complete assignments.

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria such as:

• Demonstrate critical financial need.
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities.
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity.
• Maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

 “It doesn’t matter where you come from, as long as you have aspirations and are willing to work for them,” stated Young, who attributed his success in education to the support he has received from his mother. “I 100% owe everything to my mom. Many parents that have been in the position my mom has been in focus more on survival than academics, which I think is reasonable. My mom is an amazing person that was able to do both, and that caused me to be successful in school. Some students are not lucky enough to have that kind of support.”

 Eligible students receive the National Scholarship in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. In addition, as a National Scholar, Young will receive an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C., during the spring to participate in the National Scholars Conference.