Scholar Snapshot featuring Elijah M. Conklin

Elijah Conklin, winner of a 2023 National Merit $2500 Scholarship, is studying meteorology at Valparaiso University . "I have long been interested in the field and enjoy learning more about how the weather can change so quickly," he says. Elijah notes that he is particularly interested in hurricanes. Discussing his goals over the next few years, Elijah says, "I hope to build a strong community in college and prepare myself to have the technical and interpersonal skills to be successful in my life ahead."

"I am so grateful to win this award," Elijah says of his scholarship. "It helps validate all the work I did these last four years and helps my family's financial burden be eased during college." Elijah hopes that more are encouraged to sponsor Merit Scholarship awards, saying, "These are the next groups of professionals and leaders, and they need investment."