Joseph Brayer, of Woodridge, has been named a National Achievement Semifinalist by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Brayer was also named a National Merit Commended Student. Brayer is one of 1,600 Black American high school seniors to be recognized. About 80 percent of the semifinalists go on to be finalists, and more than half receive an Achievement Scholarship Award. 

To advance to the finalist level in the competition, Brayer must present a record of high academic performance throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the high school principal, write an essay and submit his SAT scores. He will also need to complete a scholarship application with information about his participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities and educational goals.