Three Pasadena Unified Students Named National Merit Semifinalists
L-R: Matthew Paz, Paulina McConnell, Alejandro Leyva
Three Pasadena Unified students are semifinalists in the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Their Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test scores were among the highest in the state, and now they are competing for nearly 6,870 college scholarships worth nearly $26 million.
PUSD congratulates Alejandro Leyva (Marshall Fundamental), Paulina McConnell (PHS), and Matthew Paz (PHS)! “We are proud of you!”
Paulina McConnell is a 12th grader at Pasadena High School. A passionate environmentalist and student of the earth, Paulina photographs birds, bugs, and plants. She is president of the school’s Green Club and a student ambassador for AltadenaWILD, a local conservation nonprofit. Outside of natural science, Paulina has advocated for equity and student empowerment through her involvement in the PUSD Student Think Tank. Paulina also enjoys performing in the school musicals and plays, songwriting on guitar, and playing for the girls’ varsity volleyball team.
Paulina will pursue a career in environmental research and advocacy, aiming to bridge the gaps between the scientific aspects of ecology, public knowledge, and social justice. She plans to pursue a degree in environmental studies at a 4-year university, and is currently in the college application process.
Matthew Paz is enrolled in the PUSD Math Academy at Pasadena High School, an advanced program designed to challenge students with rigorous coursework in mathematics. His academic interests lean heavily toward applied computer science, where he aims to explore the intersection of computational techniques and real-world problem-solving. Outside the classroom, Matthew has a passion for music and the punk scene—he organizes and performs at punk shows, where he finds a creative outlet through playing guitar.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Matthew is involved in a research project at Caltech, focusing on astronomy. This project has deepened his understanding of the cosmos and given him valuable experience working in a professional scientific environment. Matthew is excited by the potential of blending his interests in computer science, mathematics, and astronomy, and looks forward to continuing his journey into these fields.
Alejandro Leyva, who joined Marshall in 10th grade has been active in mock trial, science bowl and book club. Alejandro was a Class of 2024 Class Salutatorian and has begun his post-secondary education at UC Berkeley where he is majoring in Mathematics.
In high school, Alejandro earned designation as an AP Scholar with Distinction and was recognized by the National Merit Hispanic Recognition program for his outstanding grades and AP and PSAT scores. Alejandro is a recipient of the Congressional Award Bronze Medal, the highest honor earned by a youth civilian.
Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), 351 S. Hudson Avenue, Pasadena, (626) 396-3600 or visit www.pusd.us.