Jaclyn Onufrey - Intel Semifinalist!

I am extremely pleased to amplify the initial Patch report that Jaclyn Onufrey, a senior at Wantagh High, has been named a Semifinalist in the prestigious Intel Science Competition.  While this has been reported in Newsday and on Patch, the important details of this accomplishment have not surfaced previously.

Before I delve into the technical stuff, a few words about Jaclyn would be appropriate, so that we have a fair understanding of the character of this young woman.  I have read projects and biographies of Intel and Siemens participants over the years, and for the most part, those students have been extremely dedicated scholars.  Jaclyn is no exception; she is definitely a dedicated scholar, to which the present honor will attest.  But wait, there is a lot more.

Jaclyn is a varsity athlete (designated “Scholar Athlete”), an AP Scholar with Distinction, an accomplished musician, a member of half dozen noted school Clubs and Societies, a managing editor for an online publication, an academic tutor, and a Big Sister/Assistant Teacher at Vacation Bible School...to highlight her background.   Jaclyn’s parents are both alumni of Wantagh High, Felicia Manyin (’84) and Scott Onufrey (’83).  Her brother, Andrew,  graduated in 2011.

Jaclyn’s Intel Competition project involved the study of mud crabs along the east coast of the U.S.  These particular crabs are invaders from Asia, believed brought to our waters in the ballast tanks of ships.  There is concern that this invasive species may upset the balance of the ecosystem along our coast, which could potentially negatively impact our marine economy and our food chain.  The project came about through the efforts of her teacher, Mrs. McGratty-White, who arranged for Jaclyn’s work with Dr. April Blakeslee, Professor of Ecology in the C.W. Post Biology Department,   Her work was done from January to September.

The scope of work was very interesting and included field work (sampling), and lab work, including counting, measuring and dissecting specimens of various species of crabs (native and invaders) as well as sequencing, comparing and analyzing the DNA of the invasive species with other samples from various coastal regions of Asia, in an effort to determine a more specific origin for the invading crabs.  In addition, extensive reading of scientific journals and papers, and writing the project report and completing all of the Intel Competition’s required paperwork all made demands upon Jaclyn’s time during this period. 

Indeed, Wantagh has been blessed with a student, a scholar, a role model, and an outstanding citizen in Jaclyn Onufrey!