Local Students Shine in Higher Education

Sophie Mercer, a forensic science student from Santa Clarita, has earned a spot in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's University Honors Program. This program is quite competitive, and Sophie is one of 739 students chosen this year. That's a big jump from the previous record set in 2019. To get into this program, students need to show they're not just good at school but also leaders in their communities. Tamy Burnett, who runs the program, said these students have shown they can excel both in and out of the classroom. It's clear that Sophie and her peers are ready to make their mark at the university. Meanwhile, several local students have been recognized by Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) for their academic achievements. These students made it to either the president's list or the dean's list for the summer 2025 term. To make the president's list, students need a GPA of 3. 7 or higher. The dean's list requires a GPA between 3. 500 and 3. 699. These students worked hard to earn their spots, and it shows.SNHU is known for offering a wide range of programs, both online and on campus. With over 200, 000 students worldwide, it's clear that SNHU is making a big impact in education. These local students are part of that success story. In another exciting achievement, Piper Lief from Valencia was honored at Hofstra University's pinning ceremony. This event is a big deal for nursing students, marking their transition from the classroom to real-world clinical practice. Hofstra's nursing program is well-known for its top-notch facilities, including simulation labs and operating rooms. Piper is now one step closer to becoming a nurse, thanks to this program.