Four area high school seniors have been named recipients of $2,500 National Merit scholarships.

The students are:

* Abdullah Malik, Crown Point High School

* John Owen, Andrean High

* Rebekah Niedner, Valparaiso High

* Kate Sanders, Valparaiso High

The scholarship winners were selected for their accomplishments, skills and potential for success in rigorous college studies. A committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors chose the winners.

They considered academic record, standardized test results, activities, an essay on interests and goals and the recommendation of a high school official.

Owen, a Valparaiso resident, is looking toward education as a career field. Malik intends to study medicine, Niedner psychology and Sanders research science.

The four are among 50 students in the state and some 2,500 nationwide to receive the awards. They were selected from 15,000 finalists across the country.

The National Merit Program recognizes students who show exceptional academic ability. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state's percentage of the nation's high school graduating seniors.

The scholarship recipients can use their awards at any regionally accredited U.S. college or university.