# Hudson County Students Shine: Two Local Scholars Win National Merit Scholarships
Hudson County just had a big moment—two students snagged the coveted National Merit Scholarship for 2025. This scholarship gives $2,500 a year for college, and only two students in the whole county got it.
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These students have shown serious academic talent. Their achievements bring pride to their communities and remind us that our local schools really do something right.
Meet the Hudson County Merit Scholars
The National Merit Scholarship Foundation looks at test scores, recommendations, and a bunch of achievements when choosing winners. This year, Hudson County’s honorees come from both public and private schools.
That says a lot about the range of educational options around here, doesn’t it?
Madison Walia Peters: Hoboken’s Future Physician
Madison Walia Peters stands out at Hoboken High School. She earned this honor as a public school student, which is no small thing.
Madison’s been excelling for years and now she’s planning to study pre-medicine. Sounds like she’s got her sights set on a future in healthcare.
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Sanjiv H. Kundamal: Jersey City‘s Mathematical Mind
Sanjiv H. Kundamal lives in Jersey City but heads into Manhattan every day to attend Trinity School. He’s got a knack for mathematics and wants to turn that into a career.
His story’s a familiar one around here—families often send kids across the river for school, but Jersey City is still home.
Understanding the National Merit Scholarship
The National Merit Scholarship stands out because it’s flexible. Unlike a lot of scholarships, students can use the money however they want for college.
That kind of freedom lets students like Madison and Sanjiv focus on what matters most to them.
From Semifinalists to Winners
Getting this scholarship isn’t easy. Madison and Sanjiv both started as semifinalists last fall and worked their way up to the winner’s list.
They beat out thousands of other students across the country. That’s something to brag about, honestly.
Hudson County’s Educational Landscape
These awards put a spotlight on the strong schools in Hudson County. Whether kids stay local at places like Hoboken High or commute to private schools, they’re showing up on the national stage.
If you’re thinking about moving to the area, this kind of news might tip the scales. School districts are always a big part of that decision, right?
Families come here for a reason, and education plays a huge role. Even local hotels in Jersey City see plenty of families touring schools and universities—education is a major draw.
Celebrating Local Excellence
These scholarships shine a spotlight not just on Madison and Sanjiv, but on the whole Hudson County educational scene. Their hard work might just nudge younger students around here to chase after their own big goals.
For folks living here—or just passing through—supporting our schools is one of those underrated things to do in Jersey City. Whether it’s a school play or a trip to an educational museum, the community serves up plenty of chances to get involved and cheer on academic achievement.
Jersey City sits right next to New York City, and it’s easy to reach thanks to reliable transportation. That convenience pulls in a wide mix of students, who all add something unique to Hudson County’s lively educational vibe.
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Here is the source article for this story: Only 2 Hudson County Students Won National Merit Scholarships. See Who.