Airline High School Student Proves That ‘Hard Work Pays Off’

An Airline High School senior gets to celebrate double today. Not only is it Abhishek Shah's 18th birthday, but he's also been chosen as a National Merit Scholar Finalist. Shah is also the Bossier Parish High School Student of the Year.

"Abhi Shah has once again proven to be one of the most elite students to have ever walked the halls of Airline High School," said Principal Jason Rowland in a news release. "He has been named a National Merit Finalist and will now be competing for the National Merit Scholarship. He continues to represent AHS and Bossier Parish with class and dignity in his effort to achieve at the highest level."

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a competition for academic recognition and college scholarships. Shah has submitted his application to Massachusetts Institute for Technology (MIT) in Cambridge. He plans to major in aerospace engineering.

According to the news release, Shah is a 4.0 student who scored a 35 on his ACT. He's also President of Airline's National Honor Society, Captain of the Drum Line and a member of the school History Bowl team.

Shah, the son of parents who came to the U.S. from India, shared his thoughts on why this honor is especially significant to him.

"Hard work pays off," he said, adding that it symbolizes "different cultures and living in two worlds. You have Abhishek Shah at home and Abhi at school."

Governor Bobby Jindal has issued an Official Statement recognizing Abhi for his accomplishments. Principal Rowland presented it to him this morning.

Thanks to Bossier Schools Liaison Sonja Bailes for sharing this story and providing quotes.