CHHS and PVC Students Unite for Second Annual Science Research Symposium

Building on last year’s success, the Science Research Symposium aims to provide seventh-grade students with the opportunity to learn from high school students enrolled in the Science Research course. It also allows them to ask questions and begin considering science courses for high school. While last year’s symposium took place in the CHHS library, high school students expressed a desire to return to PVC so they could meet with seventh-graders in a more comfortable environment.

PVC Math teacher Tracy Finan expressed excitement about its positive impact on her students. “This opens the eyes of the seventh graders to science research and the level on which the high school students work. Hearing directly from the older students has a powerful impact," said Ms. Finan. She was proud to share that her students were genuinely engaged, discussing topics such as alternative fuels for airplanes and transplanting coral reefs.

The success of the Science Research Symposium is evident in the mutual benefits it provides for all students involved. Robert Keehn, the science research and AP Biology teacher at CHHS, has played a key role in boosting enrollment in the program over the past few years. He highlighted the skills that high school students develop through this experience. “The visit to PVC helps students enhance their presentation skills, particularly in framing and delivering their presentations effectively. It also teaches them how to respond to questions on the spot,” he noted. At PVC, every student is currently working on their Passion Project, which involves self-directed research on a topic of their choice.

The Science Research Program at CHHS lasts three years, beginning in the Sophomore year. Throughout the program, students determine their research topic, review science journals, secure a mentor, and conduct research with that mentor. The third year is focused on completing their research paper and entering competitions. Supported by SUNY Albany, students earn 12 college credits for completing the course. 

The range of Science Research topics is unique to each student and reflects their individual passions and curiosities. Whether exploring alternative fuels for air travel, restoring coral reefs, harnessing the power of nuclear fusion, or examining the Effects of Music on Psychopathy, each topic offers a chance for students to delve into what truly interests them.

A group of seventh graders shared their insights after learning about neurodegeneration potentially linked to social media and its association with Alzheimer's disease. Senior Sadie Levitt presented her research, sharing information about promising AI software for diagnosing this condition. One of the middle school students in attendance, Lewis, has a Passion Project focused on gambling and its effects on the brain. He shared, “I found this particularly interesting. The presentation showed just how serious a danger there is.”

Conor added, “My takeaway is that people of all ages are so caught up in it right now that they just scroll without any concern about the long-term effects—but they should.” Elliot remarked on the importance of science research: “It’s really important for us to learn about all of these different topics. There’s so much more and different kinds of info here than we’d get in a regular class."

CHHS senior Alana Walsh is researching glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. She chose the topic because her uncle was diagnosed with the disease, and she found it helpful to learn more about it. During her research, Alana reviewed articles written by one of the leaders in his field, Dr. Sani Kizilbash, at the Mayo Clinic. She contacted him and requested that he be her mentor for the project - a role that he accepted. “This entire process has taught me so much,” said Alana. “I’ve learned so much about this disease and think I also have a good understanding of what it will be like to do research in college.”

This year's Science Research Symposium continued to build on previous symposia's successes, fostering collaboration, curiosity, and inspiration to follow their passions.