Connor Ancipink believes the PSAT deserves far more attention than it typically receives.

While many students treat it as just another practice exam, Connor sees it as a powerful opportunity — especially junior year, when the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) serves as the gateway to the National Merit Scholarship program. That opportunity paid off: Connor has been named a National Merit Finalist.

Although the National Merit Scholarship’s direct monetary award may seem modest compared to the rising cost of college tuition, Connor understands that its true value lies in the doors it opens. Many universities — particularly state schools in Texas and Florida — offer full-ride scholarships and generous stipends to National Merit Scholars. For qualifying students, attending a school such as the University of Texas at Austin tuition-free is not hypothetical; it is attainable.

Because SAT scores do not factor into National Merit qualification, preparing specifically for the PSAT is essential. Students have only one opportunity to take the PSAT/NMSQT that counts toward National Merit consideration, while they may take the SAT multiple times. That single test can open the door to life-changing possibilities.

Connor ultimately chose not to pursue those potential opportunities in the South. With characteristic humor, he shared that he is drawn instead to studying “somewhere colder.” Still, he strongly encourages underclassmen to take the PSAT seriously. In his view, the return on investment — measured in opportunity — can be immense.
When it came to the SAT, Connor approached the exam with discipline and determination. After his first attempt, he left the testing room knowing he had left points on the table. Rather than settling, he immediately registered for the next test date.

From that moment on, preparation became routine. Each weekend, he completed a full-length practice exam on Bluebook, focusing on improving both speed and accuracy. After every test, he carefully reviewed missed questions, analyzing not only what he had gotten wrong, but how similar concepts might appear in different forms.
His highest practice score was a 1590 — already an extraordinary achievement. When his official spring 2025 SAT score report revealed a perfect 1600, the result was both thrilling and deeply satisfying — the product of consistent effort, reflection, and strategic preparation.

Connor believes expensive tutoring and prep classes are unnecessary. He insists that the resources needed to succeed are widely available at no cost. With discipline and self-motivation, students can achieve outstanding results independently. For those who need foundational support, accessible tools exist to build those skills without paying exorbitant fees. In his view, time and focus are far more valuable than costly prep programs.
Connor’s plans extend well beyond undergraduate study. He intends to pursue mathematics as far as it will take him, with the ultimate goal of earning a Ph.D. He is driven by the depth, beauty, and challenge of advanced mathematics and looks forward to dedicating himself fully to the discipline.

He is currently considering attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, having received a Letter of Assurance that guarantees admission pending medical clearance. The opportunity represents both academic rigor and the chance to serve. If plans shift, Connor is committed to enrolling at a university with a strong mathematics program, where he can continue to challenge himself at the highest level.

Principal Dr. Lara Gonzalez shared, “Connor is a gifted student across many subject areas. He has distinguished himself at Islip High School with his impressive academic achievements and discipline. He will represent Islip with pride at West Point or whichever university he decides to attend this fall. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Assistant Principal Ms. Lisa Ward added, “Connor is an exceptional young man whose aptitude for mathematics is matched by his strength of character and sense of purpose. As he sets his sights on the United States Military Academy at West Point and future doctoral study, he demonstrates the discipline, resilience, and intellectual depth that will undoubtedly carry him to where he wants to go. Congratulations, Connor!”