“Should I ask them if it’s gonna come out soon? Is that going to sound tacky?”

These were the questions senior Anita Joseph asked herself while anxiously awaiting a final decision from the National Youth Science Academy.

When she finally received the email notifying her she was accepted into a highly prestigious and entirely free three-week summer program, her excitement washed away any worries.

This summer, the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia will host over one hundred of the brightest young leaders from across the country and beyond at the National Youth Science Camp (NYSCamp). The camp is an annual program designed to inspire and mentor rising STEM students; only two high school students from each state who have demonstrated commitment and leadership in STEM are selected as delegates.

A few weeks ago, the Stinger had the opportunity to interview Joseph and learn more about her STEM journey that led to national recognition.

Before high school, Joseph felt she was naturally drawn towards STEM subjects. “I remember in middle school I was really involved in my math team,” she said. However, Joseph’s middle school was relatively small, thereby limiting the opportunities available to explore other STEM topics. “We didn’t have a science fair at the end of the year or anything like that.”

As Joseph moved on to Hinsdale South, she continued to carry an affinity for STEM courses, especially biology and chemistry. Fortunately for her, more possibilities presented themselves as she progressed through high school.

“It was cool to come to high school and, as I got older, get more opportunities to explore science outside of my classes,” Joseph said. She noted one activity in particular that she found both enjoyment and success in: Science Olympiad.

In Science Olympiad, students demonstrate a complex understanding of scientific disciplines by competing in events ranging anywhere from engineering to earth science. Joseph mentioned that exploring various concepts for her events is both fun and exciting—this attitude has not gone unnoticed.

Stinger reached out to Mr. Snider, Joseph’s former chemistry teacher and a Science Olympiad coach, to comment on her commitment to STEM and Science Olympiad.

“Over these past few seasons, Anita has competed in a number of events whether it be Experimental Design, Write It Do It or Codebusters,” Snider said. “She has put in an incredible amount of hours and effort towards becoming a two-time state medalist.” 

Moreover, Joseph’s clear dedication to STEM isn’t confined to South’s walls.

“I think I always try to do things for my community,” Joseph said when discussing the qualities that she feels made her a good choice for the camp; she noted that her job at Mathnasium and free tutoring program at South made her feel that she could explore her interests in a meaningful and practical way.

On top of this, Joseph believed that a willingness to collaborate also made her a exceptional candidate. Joseph felt that being a social person and seeking to work with others helped her stand out. This particular quality of Joseph is recognized by her teachers and classmates alike.

When asked if there were any times when Anita helped fellow classmates with challenging coursework, Mr. Snider answered with a resounding yes. “She wasn’t competitive, but rather collaborative and always looked to help those around her,” Snider said. “She is altruism personified.”

Stinger also asked Eva Joseph, a close friend and classmate of Anita Joseph, about a quality of hers that makes her stand out. “She really puts her all into whatever she does, whether it’s social or academic,” Eva Joseph said. “She’s very easy to work with in an academic setting and enjoys helping people around her.” 

While reflecting on the support she received during the application process and throughout her high school career, Anita Joseph recognized teachers, family, and friends. “Mr. Snider definitely helped me out a lot with understanding the application process, and I asked my brother to edit my essays,” Joseph said. “I have so many supportive people around me all the time, and they’ve helped me take opportunities that I didn’t think I would’ve originally.”

“I’ve had such amazing friends and such amazing teachers,” Joseph continued. “In this sense, I wouldn’t change anything about these past four years.”

Of course, Joseph’s departure from South this Thursday will be noticed: her involvement in South Asian Student Association, SAT/ACT tutoring, and Science Olympiad has left an undeniable impact on South. “When Anita graduates, Hinsdale South will be losing one of the very best to ever walk our halls,” Mr. Snider said.

As Joseph prepares for a “bittersweet” graduation, she noted that she’s still excited for the variety of opportunities that await her. 

At the NYSCamp in July, Joseph will have the chance to learn from accomplished lecturers, conduct research, visit D.C. and engage in much-anticipated caving; the three weeks will serve as a result of her dedication to learning and leadership during high school.

For Anita Joseph, the camp is more than an academic achievement; it is a chance to continue the collaboration, curiosity, and inquiry that has shaped both her passion for science and her high school experience.