Joliet West High School Student Selected to Participate in Young Scientist Training Program

Although Joliet West High School student Alex Paramo is only a junior, he’s already taking steps to ensure he is one day accepted to his dream college. Paramo was recently selected as one of 10 students to participate in the University of Chicago Young Scientist Training Program (YSTP) for 2013.
 
The YSTP is an eight-week summer program for outstanding minority high school students.  Student participants gain experience in research, medicine, and the biological sciences. The program allows students interested in science to work in the laboratories of the University of Chicago, where they will learn skills with mentors.
 
“I did some independent research and found a program that I thought would give me great experience in my area of focus,” said Paramo, who hopes to major in Bio-Medical Engineering in college. “Given the prestige that follows the University of Chicago, I decided to follow through on the application.”
 
In order to be selected for the program, Paramo had to fill out an online application.  He was also required to provide letters of recommendation from a current science teacher, his principal, and an individual of his choice. 
 
Paramo is in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) academy at Joliet West, and has already taken a number of science courses, including Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Biology 2. He plans to take AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science and Physics 2 next year.
 
Through the YSTP program, Paramo aspires to gain an experience that will change his life.
 
“I will work alongside doctoral students at one of the most prestigious universities, not only in the United States, but in the world,” he said. “It is an opportunity to make connections that will open doors for my future.”  

Joliet West High School Principal Teresa Gibson expressed pride in Paramo’s achievement.  “Alex is an amazing young man who is dedicated to his education.  He has shown leadership within the school through his service on the district’s Strategic Planning Team.  This is another opportunity for Alex to excel,” said Gibson.  “ We are extremely proud of him.”