Changed the trajectory of my life
“Competing in CSRSEF was one of the best experiences in my life and completely changed the trajectory of my life. Through my project, I gained mentors (including through connecting with my science fair judges!) and critical research skills that have been tremendously useful in my work today, as I’ve met people that have become my lifelong friends and mentors today. I started my project independently in my bedroom on my school Chromebook, and today, I’ve gotten the opportunity to attend Stanford, work in the Bertozzi Lab, conduct research at the University of Cambridge abroad, all of which I attribute to beginning my journey through competing in CSRSEF.
“I’m truly grateful for the volunteers and people that make this experience possible, as I believe this was a critical experience for my development as a scientist, and I would most definitely recommend this experience for all aspiring scientists.”
Pinyu Liao
CSRSEF Grand Champion, 2022
Profoundly shaped my worldview
“Competing in the Central Sound Regional Science and Engineering Fair throughout high school taught me the art of research and instilled in me a deep appreciation and curiosity for the raw sciences. Those year-long projects fostered a love for inquiry that continues to drive me, even as my interests have expanded into government and politics.
“Now, as I pursue a dual degree in chemistry and economics at Harvard, I balance neuro-oncology research at Massachusetts General Hospital with my speech and debate endeavors. Often, I find myself discussing my former research projects with my peers and professors, recognizing how early exposure to research has profoundly shaped my worldview. For this, I am incredibly grateful to our local scientific leaders who created such a rich community of knowledge, passion, and curiosity.”
Rishi Hazra
CSRSEF Grand Champion, 2022
10/10 for its impact
“I competed in CSRSEF/WSSEF in 11th grade and was fortunate to make it to ISEF, where I won 3rd place in my category. My project analyzed RNA-sequencing data to investigate alternative splicing of growth factor receptors in breast cancer. Through this project, I discovered my passion for biomedical research and gained independence in the lab, which led me to continue research at MIT and now as an MD-PhD student at Harvard and MIT. Reaching out to labs taught me self-advocacy and persistence, skills that helped me throughout college and beyond. […] I’d rate this experience a 10/10 for its impact on my high school research journey. My advice: Enjoy the research process and focus on the experience rather than just prizes.”
Vaishnavi Phadnis
CSRSEF Participant, 2017
Set me up for my future
“I was a participant in the 2017 CSRSEF competition…..it set me up for my future in ways I never could have imagined…..helped me make it into the University of Washington…..gained life skills like self-confidence and leadership….because it showed me how to network and speak with professionals, I was able to get a couple of incredible internships over the past two summers…Thank you and everyone else involved in CSRSEF for your persistent devotion to our futures.”
Molly Taylor
CSRSEF Participant, 2017