Massapequa High School junior David “DJ” Moravec was among more than 16,000 semifinalists announced by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation in the 72nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program. He achieved this prestigious distinction based on his 2025 PSAT score.

DJ will now have an opportunity to continue in the competition, which offers approximately 6,700 scholarships worth a combined $24 million. About 95 percent of semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing. To become a finalist, a semifinalist and high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application that includes academic record, participation in school and community activities, leadership abilities and honors and awards received. Scholarship winners, who earn the Merit Scholar title, are announced in the spring.

In addition to his classes at Massapequa High School, DJ is enrolled in the video game design program at Long Island High School for the Arts. He is a graduate of Unqua Elementary School.