The award recipients this year were among 3,000 students branching from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, Virgin Islands, and American schools abroad who participated in the program.

This year, two Neshaminy High School seniors, Christian Moyer and Carissa Jessey were picked as recipients of this award.

They were commended for their superior performance in writing. Both of these students will receive certificates recognizing their accomplishments. Their names also will be published in a booklet that is sent to directors of admissions at 300 two- and four-year colleges and universities.

Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, to state supervisors of English, and to the National Council of Teachers of English leaders will be notified as well.

Jessey was the most surprised when first told about her achievement. She remembers English teacher Joesph Blair calling her aside and saying, “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Moyer was a bit confused with the letter he received from NCTE so he brought it to Blair. Inspiration for these writers comes from numerous sources, mostly being personal experiences. Jessey sums it up when she explains, “As for inspiration, family, friends, love, vacations, etc. A lot happens in 18 years.” Moyer also pulls inspiration from his every day occurrences.

Regarding their future both agreed that they plan on writing but for enjoyment and not for career purposes. Jessey plans on attending the University of Pennsylvania because of the strong biomedical research program.

Moyer has applied to many colleges including the University of Pennsylvania and Duke. He is not sure exactly what major he will be taking but he knows that he will be studying in the sciences.

As for these two exceptional writers, they will surely have no problem attending a prestigious college and becoming successful later in life. This is only the beginning of many more triumphs to come later in their future.