Pelham’s very own Science Research Program is heading to the International Science and Engineering Fair. Students from the school competed in the annual Westchester Regional Science Fair known as WESEF, where science research students from schools across Westchester present their hard work and research to a panel of judges for awards as well as the chance to progress to the International fair. This competition took place in a virtual fair on March 19 and 20. The finalists from this competition will go on to compete against International programs.

The students from Pelham advancing on are: Liv Pollock, senior, Leah Sherbansky, junior, and Julia Meyerson, junior. This year, the international fair will take place in Atlanta, Georgia from May 7-13.

Finalist Liv Pollock commented on their experience with competitions and the Pelham Science Research department, “It was the best decision I made in high school”.

They have been a member of the department for all four years. Pollock competed at JSHS nationals, and placed first in biochemistry the weekend of April 23.

“Beltecas and DiBello push students way out of their comfort zones, but oftentimes it’s the feedback from other students that drives Research students to be their best,” Pollock said. They credit the program success to the environment created by the students in the program.

All of the competitions this year have taken place virtually. JSHS nationals and ISEF, are the first to be in-person, with proper protocols, which is surely exciting for the participants involved. As the program returns to normal, the success of the program is expected to only increase from here.

Science Research has a well known reputation as a place in the school where some of the most academically rigorous students thrive. Students are excited to enjoy their successes after their hard work and commitment to the program.