Three students from Alachua County Public Schools recently participated in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles, where nearly 2,000 young scientists from 75 nations competed. Nathan Wei, a student from Buchholz High School, stood out by winning second place in the Chemistry Division.
Wei’s success began when he was named a finalist in the 2024 Regeneron Science Talent Search for his research on developing a strong, recyclable plastic from renewable resources. He also placed fourth in the Regeneron STS finals in March. Wei’s achievements continued as he won first place in the Senior Chemistry Division at the State Science and Engineering Fair for his work on renewable resource-based plastics. He also received two special prizes in his division and was named a Grand Award Winner.
Another student from Buchholz High School, Sophia Rong, also competed in the international event. Rong won first place in the Senior Mathematics and Computational Science Division at the state level for her project on HIV transmission. Like Wei, she also earned special awards and was named a Grand Award Winner.
Abhith Kasala, a student from Gainesville High School, received a third place award in the Earth and Environmental Science category at the international competition. Kasala’s research on the impact of microplastics and contaminants in water earned him a spot in the ISEF earlier this year after winning first place in the Senior Earth and Environmental Science Division at the state level, along with two special prizes.
