LI Regeneron Semi-Finalist Makes History In His Town

CENTRAL ISLIP, NY — A Long Island high school senior not only beat out thousands of applicants to become a semi-finalist in the Regeneron Science Talent Search Competition, he also beat the odds by becoming the first student in his district's history to receive the honor.

Last month, Yu "Kevin" Zhu, a senior at Central Islip High School, was named a semi-finalist in the international competition that awards students for their exceptional innovative thinking and research skills, was well as their commitment to academics.

As a semi-finalist, he earned $2,000 in grant money for both himself and his school. His project for the competition was "The effects of simulated microgravity on the biofilm production and susceptibility of Acinetobacter Tat mutants."

Following the competition, Zhu was honored at the February Islip Town Board meeting, for becoming the first student in the district's history to enter the competition and earn a spot in the semi-finals. Central Islip Superintendent of Schools Dr. Howard Koenig, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Sharon Dungee and science teacher Roann Roderick, all attended the meeting to show their support.

"Kevin was one of nearly 2,000 students around the world who entered the competition, and one of 300 students to make it to the semi-finals," Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter said. "Kevin has a bright future, and we congratulate him for making history in the district."

What's next for the senior? Zhu will be headed to Yale University in the fall, where he was awarded early admission.

Congratulations to Yu Zhu!