Fox Lane Science Research Gives College-Level Experience

Talk to students enrolled in the science research program and they will have many anecdotes on how it has benefited them.

A group got a chance Wednesday to share their experiences to Bedford Central school board members. They praised the program, which lets them team up with scientific researchers at nearby universities and get their own work published, as helping academically and professionally. It is open to sophomores, juniors and seniors.

Camille Swersky, a senior who is doing research at New York University on Alzheimer's and sleep apnea, is focusing on pursuing scholarships in connection with her work. She said, "Not only does it provide you with an edge for these scholarships, but my work at NYU also allows me to network and acquire skills that will set me on a path towards becoming a doctor in the future."

Senior Jessica Pucila, who is doing biological research at Baruch College, said the program has helped her in job and college interviews.

Giuliette Pfeiffer, a sophomore, talked about how science research has helped her improve her study skills in other school work.

“Personally my experience in science research has helped me in my advanced placement classes, such as AP World History," she said.

Erin Rent, who teaches the program, said it has done tremendously in the past year, noting scientists who come to visit, reaching out to other schools and available opportunties.

The program has a focus in different areas for each grade, according to Rent. For sophomores, the focus is on communications and presenting professionally. Juniors focus on data presentation and writing methods, while seniors take their knowledge and data then present it to folks in their fields.

School board members asked about the students' interest in science. For example, Erika Long asked when that interest started. A majority of the students answered that it took place while in middle school.

Board President Susan Elion Wollin asked what would happen if the program was not available. Students answered by saying it would be harder for them, citing availability of personal networking and mentors.

Board member Andrew Bracco asked students about how important it would be to renovate the science labs at , which is being considered as part of a broader capital planning bond. Responding students expressed support for doing it, with one describing how resources were limited for her when she was in middle school.

To learn more about the program, go to flhsresearch.org.