Landon Kleinbrodt '14 Advances to National Merit Finalist Standing

Congratulations to Landon Kleinbrodt ’14, one of 15,000 finalists selected from the 1.5 million entrants, who has advanced to National Merit Finalist Standing in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Students are automatically entered into the program by taking the PSAT. Of the 1.5 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT selection index scores (critical reading, mathematics and writing skills scores) qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program. From there, 16,000 students, or approximately one-third of the 50,000 high scorers, are notified that they have qualified as Semifinalists. Semifinalists are designated on a state representational basis. They are the highest scoring entrants in each state. To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, Semifinalists must advance to Finalist standing in the competition by continuing to meet high academic standards.

In February, some 15,000 Semifinalists are notified that they have advanced to Finalist standing, and this is where Landon currently stands. Needless to say, this is a pretty remarkable achievement. Landon will now enter to receive an award that is based on an essay, school recommendation which includes academic performance, extra curricular activities, and test scores. Good luck Landon!


QUESTION & ANSWER WITH LANDON KLEINBRODT '14

What are your career interests or aspirations?
Astrophysics and private space flight.

What school do you plan to attend next fall?
I haven't heard back from schools yet, but my top two choices are Stanford or Princeton.

What has been your favorite part of your Marin Catholic experience?
The community and people that MC offers and fosters.

What teacher has had the most influence on your academic success and why?

My 6th grade math teacher; he instilled in me a love for mathematics that has stuck with me for life. At MC: this is a really tough call, I've had a lot of great teachers. I would say Tom Lippi; he made sure I realized that just because I could skate by doesn't mean I should. He always demanded the best from me, and more importantly he made me demand the best from myself.

Tell us something people may be surprised to know about a Marin Catholic education?

The idea of educating the whole person is more than just a slogan we put on admission packets. Through four years I've learned a whole lot about myself as well as the world around me. Most surprising for me was how my attitude towards community/Christian service has changed (for the better).

Where have you performed and what have you gained from your Christian Service work?

Meals of Marin,  Marin Food Bank and Veteran's History Project. First, it has taught me how extremely lucky I am to live the life I do. It has also instilled in me a sense of duty that I have because of that life. It has shown me that a need is present and I'm in a position to help. Over time my attitude has changed from grudging obligation, to responsible duty, and now it’s on its way towards genuine enjoyment.
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