Malverne High School

Malverne High School is proud to announce that two seniors, Dayami Guaman and Lorraine Akou, have been selected as recipients of the highly competitive 2025 QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship. This national program connects high-achieving students from across the country with full four-year scholarships to some of the nation’s most selective colleges and universities.

Dayami and Lorraine were chosen from a pool of more than 20,800 applicants nationwide, with only 2,550 students earning finalist status and securing a Match Scholarship. Their award covers the entire cost of attendance, including tuition, housing and meals, books and supplies and travel expenses – ensuring that each student can fully pursue their academic goals without financial barriers.

Dayami Guaman has matched with John’s Hopkins University, where she plans to major in biology on a pre-med track. Lorraine Akou has matched with Emory University, where she intends to study neuroscience and behavioral biology on a pre-med track.

“Senior Seminar guides Malverne seniors through the many complicated application processes they face and helps students craft their personal messages to achieve their post–high school goals,” said Senior Seminar teacher Melissa McGowan. “Dayami and Lorraine have significant achievements, both in and out of the classroom, and it has been a joy to help them showcase their many accomplishments to garner the national accolades they truly deserve.”

Rebecca Gottesman, Director of School Counseling, added: “We could not be prouder of these two young women, who truly exemplify the depth, dedication and drive of Malverne students. Their counselors and teachers have all played a role in helping them reach this point, and we are confident that the sky is the limit for them.”

Principal Dr. Kesha Bascombe echoed this sentiment, noting, “These students have worked tirelessly throughout their high school careers. Their success reflects not only their hard work but also the commitment of our educators and the support of the Malverne community.”

The district extends its warmest congratulations to Dayami and Lorraine and looks forward to celebrating their continued accomplishments.