Chemistry Olympiad challenged students to strengthen their knowledge

In spite of obstacles created by the coronavirus, SJM students are rising to the challenge by competing in knowledge-based competitions such as the Chemistry Olympiad.  Several students recently participated in the local competition sponsored by the American Chemistry Society Chapter.

“Chemistry Olympiad is an international competition and there are several levels,” explained Chemistry instructor Jackie Teixeira. “Our students participated in the local competition which was supposed to take place at Fresno State, but due to the coronavirus outbreak, the participants took an online test. Ten students from the local area, a maximum of two from each school, will be selected to go on to participate in the national exam.”

“I personally enjoyed participating in the competition,” said Ashley Belleza. “I’ve done similar competitions in the past, but this one was different. It was definitely more challenging, especially with the circumstances we are all currently under, but I enjoyed this new experience. It made me realize there is still so much to learn in Chemistry and I am eager to discover more about this subject in the future.”

Spencer Douangphouxay, who qualified for the national exam said, “The Chemistry competition was a great way to challenge myself, test my abilities on the subject, and find out what I can improve on in the future. Through this experience, I learned how far my determination and tenacity can take me as long as I stay optimistic and apply myself towards any test or obstacle.” 

Competitions like this add another layer of authenticity to their science education, according to Ms. Teixeira.  “Students learn about topics in a classroom, but can lose sight of the fact that it's not just something you learn in a classroom, but rather it is something that is used in the real world,” she explained. “Even though all they were doing was taking a test, my students were surprised that they were asked questions just like what they have been taught at SJM. It's fun to see that moment when a student ‘gets’ that science is taking what you learn in the classroom and applying it in real life.”