The MSMS community is closer to welcoming its newest students, as the application review committee completed its work Saturday, Feb. 24. Reviewers examined 215 completed applications from the potential class of 2020, the highest number in five years.

The application consisted of a general applicant information page, school information, two proofs of Mississippi residence, a resume, two essays, personal narrative, letters of recommendation from a math and science teacher and a counselor, an ACT score and transcripts. There was an optional portion to submit a work sample as well.

“This looks to be a good year for MSMS. The applicant pool is diverse and most of the applications are very strong. I feel the application review, interview and final selection committees will have some very tough decisions to make,” said Director of Admissions, Spike Harris. “As an alum of MSMS, I see a lot of applicants that remind me of myself. The mold of an MSMS student has not changed much since I graduated in 1991, and I feel that is a great thing. MSMS is a very special place for so many people, and I’m looking forward to meeting the Class of 2020 as they find out how special this place really is.”

These applications were due on Feb. 1. A committee consisting of an MSMS faculty member, a K-12 educator, and a non-educator, reviews the applications to determine which applicants will receive an invitation for an interview. The committee members will analyze if the applicant meets certain criteria and rate them based on that rubric. Applicants must be residents of Mississippi, in 10th grade, and have submitted all required fields of application.  The applicants are also analyzed on if they show a strong interest in math and science, a strong desire to go to MSMS, and above average academic performance.

The top scorers on the applications are the ones who are invited for an interview. After the interview process, applicants will receive a letter stating if they were accepted, waitlisted or rejected.

“I am very nervous to hear back about my application, but very excited to know that I am closer to knowing if I am accepted to MSMS or not,” said MSMS applicant, Victoria Meyers.

“I am very excited to meet the applicants for the Class of 2020 and give them words of encouragement as they stress about whether or not they will be accepted. I can’t wait to meet the oncoming class!” MSMS junior, Jack Shelton, said.