The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) is an esteemed platform for high school students to showcase their scientific research and innovative projects. The Long Island regional symposium is held annually at York College in Queens. Students apply to the competition by submitting their projects; from there, a limited number of students are accepted to compete in the semi-finals held in February. For many students, JSHS presents an exciting challenge and a chance to distinguish themselves in the competitive world of science.
JSHS aims to promote excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among young students. Students involved in this process learn valuable skills, which will serve them well in future competitions, college studies, and beyond. “It’s exciting to think about competing with other students interested in science research,” shared junior Leah Pisano.
The application for this symposium differs from other typical science competitions. While only a few projects are accepted to the semi-finals, this year’s junior students submitted to JSHS with their symposium projects from last year. As many worked in groups, they had to designate a leader who would represent the team at the semi-finals if selected. Amy Glanzer, who was a leave replacement teacher for Science Research teacher Kathleen McAuley earlier this year, explained, “Each application [includes] a written research paper, abstract, and other registration forms. Now, the students are waiting to hear if they’ve been accepted into the semi-finals in February.”
Junior Lara Vardar worked independently on her application for JSHS. She explained, “The application is a long process since we have to work on our [research] paper, abstract, and so many other forms. But it was worth it when we submitted our applications together as a class.”
Glanzer expressed her nostalgic journey as an LHS alumni: “As someone who presented my project at JSHS [in my senior year], this felt like a full-circle moment as I guided the juniors through their submissions. Having experienced the application and presentation process firsthand, I was able to share my own experience with them.” As this was her first time guiding the juniors with a competition application, she wished them the best of luck. “Getting to submit to JSHS is a wonderful opportunity for the juniors to showcase their hard work on their projects from last year. I’m proud of how hard the students worked on their research papers and applications. I wish them all the best of luck in this year’s competition!”
The results are expected to be announced at the beginning of February. Once accepted, the students will head to York College to deliver a prepared presentation in front of a panel of judges and surrounded by students, families, and teachers.
