From Our National Merit Finalist
Congratulations to John Beecher ‘22 on being named a National Merit Finalist! The National Merit Scholarship competition consists of approximately 1.5 million US high school students with only 15,000 making it to the finals. The competition is scored on a variety of accomplishments, with a few being a high score on the PSAT, a high academic standing, and letters of recommendation. It is a huge accomplishment for one of our students to make it to the finals. Congratulations, John! Here a few fun facts and thoughts from our finalist below.
Q) What is your favorite book you have read here (at Chesterton) and why?
A) My favorite book from the Chesterton curriculum is Beowulf. I love Beowulf because of its truly incredible symbolism, which is embedded in every aspect of the work, from the structure of the whole plot to the format of each line. It teaches great lessons about heroism and humility, showing what makes Beowulf great, and why he ultimately falls. Mr. Patrick Lyon did a phenomenal job unpacking all of Beowulf's hidden secrets, and it remains my favorite despite all of the other worthy options in the school's rich curriculum.
Q) What is your favorite G.K. Chesterton quote?
A) "The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him."
Q) What is one thing you have learned during your high school years that you will carry with you throughout your life?
A) My time at Chesterton has taught me that it is not money, flashy technology, or expensive buildings which make a great education. All these are available to so many schools which nevertheless turn out students who know no more about how to live or even to think than they did before walking in. Without a focus on God, morality, the examined life, and a strong community of families who are committed to making each other better and holier people, a school cannot educate its students well. It is the camaraderie, Sacraments, encouragement, and joy in learning, coupled with the teaching of great texts and philosophies from all periods of history, which make Chesterton great. Chesterton may not have all of the accoutrements that other schools have, but it is better off without them; its mission is not concerned with such passing things, but with producing virtuous and discerning young men and women who are ready to face what life will throw at them by trusting in God and getting to know Him better.
- John Beecher, Class of 2022