Requesting info from Semifinalists with at least one semester C or D (and a Q about MS grades)

Paying for College National Merit Aid
1

I’m hoping for anecdotal info from Semifinalists who had at least one semester C or D. If you’re willing, please share:

  1. The year you were/are an NMS (e.g., 2016)
  2. How many Cs or Ds were on your transcript
  3. When you received the Cs or Ds (e.g., one C in the first semester of 9th grade, one C in the second semester of 11th grade)
  4. Whether you advanced to Finalist standing

Additionally, does anyone know whether NMSC reviews grades for high school-level courses completed in middle school?

Thank you for any info you can provide!