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By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

HOOVER – Spain Park High School’s Rahul Karthik is one of two students from the Birmingham area to be named a semifinalist for the 2025 Coca-Cola Scholars Program.

“We are immensely proud of Rahul for earning this remarkable honor,” said Dr. Amanda Esslinger, Spain Park High School’s principal. “He is an example of academic excellence and leadership, and this recognition reflects his hard work and dedication.”

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program acknowledges students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills and dedication to serving their communities. Karthik was selected from more than 105,000 applicants nationwide and is among 1,336 high school seniors moving to the next phase of the Coca-Cola Scholars selection process.

According to an official press release by Hoover City Schools, Karthik is ranked at the top of his class and is said to embody these values through his outstanding academic record and commitment to community service.

According to the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, the Coca-Cola Scholars program is an achievement-based scholarship that is awarded to students who are in their final year of high school. Students in the program are recognized for their capacity to lead, serve and for a commitment to making an impact on school and communities.

The Coca-Cola Foundation chooses 150 Coca-Cola scholars each year to receive the $20,000 scholarship. The foundation has provided more than 6,900 scholars with more than $84 million in educational support. The winners of the 2025 Coca-Cola Scholars Program will mark the 36th class.

“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,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.”

As a semifinalist, Karthik will proceed to the next round, where he will complete an application involving essays, recommendations and a transcript review. In early January, 250 Regional Finalists will be selected for interviews, with 150 students ultimately selected to be Coca-Cola Scholars and receive a $20,000 college scholarship.