Upper St. Clair senior named Coca-Cola scholar semifinalist
Isaac Bernstein of Upper St. Clair was recently named a 2023-24 Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist.
A senior, Bernstein is one of only 12 in Allegheny County and 84 in Pennsylvania to earn this honor. Nationally, less than 2% of all applicants were selected as semifinalists.
“Only 1,514 semifinalists were chosen among 103,800-plus applicants this year because of their outstanding leadership, academic achievements, and dedication to their community,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We believe that identifying these young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students, but also lifts up those around them.”
Earlier this year, Bernstein was selected as an 18 Under Eighteen honoree by the Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania for his efforts to support the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. As a 2023 High School Diplomat, he participated in a 10-day cultural enrichment experience in Japan last summer.
Additionally, Bernstein has served as a peer tutor throughout high school, and is an accomplished percussionist. He is also a member of National Honor Society and the World Affairs Club.
Semifinalists are now asked to complete Phase 2 applications, which include essays, a recommendation, and a transcript. An independent selection committee will review the applications and recommend 250 Regional Finalists by the end of January to take part in online interviews.
A total of 150 Coke Scholars will be named in March. Each will receive a $20,000 college scholarship, and attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend April 25-28 in Atlanta. They will be the guests of honor at the 36th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute facilitated by program alumni.
A joint effort of Coca-Cola bottlers across the country and The Coca-Cola Company, the scholars program is the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States.
With the addition of the 2024 class, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation will have provided more than 6,900 Coke Scholars nationwide with over $84 million in scholarships over the course of 36 years.