What is the population of Istanbul? How about the currency of Botswana? Just ask Miles Okamoto, eighth grader at St. John’s Episcopal School. Next month, Miles will participate in the state-level competition of the National Geographic Bee in Bedford, Texas.

Miles submitted a written examination to qualify as one of the top 100 students who would advance to the state competition. Approximately 700 students applied. He will be accompanied by Lynn Granello, fifth grade teacher and co-sponsor of the St. John’s geographic bee.

Last year, Miles placed 17th in the state-level bee. One winner from each state will advance to the national finals in Washington, D.C., in May, hosted by Alex Trebek of Jeopardy! The final round will be aired on the National Geographic Channel and public television stations.

Are you smarter than an eighth grader? Test your knowledge of geography with the Quiz Your Noodle game on the National Geographic website.