Mamaroneck High School’s annual Original Science Research Symposium is one of the most exciting events of the year for the students in the OSR program. The upcoming symposium will celebrate the hard work, growth, and achievements of this year’s seniors, and students will showcase the projects they have spent months developing.
For over 25 years, the Symposium has given students a chance to present what they’ve learned, reflect on the challenges they overcame, and share their months of research and dedication. The symposium serves as a recognition of how much effort students have put in throughout the year and a reminder of the creativity, discipline, and perseverance that defined their work.
OSR is a three year science research program at MHS that begins with a prerequisite class meeting twice a week in the mornings for freshmen. The program follows students through a long process of developing a research topic, testing ideas, and analyzing results.
Charlotte Romita (‘29), a freshman in the program, spoke to its appeal. “I really enjoy getting to explore new areas that wouldn’t necessarily be covered in my core classes.” Unlike a typical science class, the program is built around independence. Students are expected to take ownership of their projects, which means learning how to manage time, revise plans, and keep going when experiments do not work out right away.
The program offers students interested in pursuing a career in science a grounded understanding of research in methodology, tailored to their individual interests. “OSR is great for students looking to improve their research skills as well as push themselves academically,” noted Sophia Iovine-Massardi (’29). “It is a difficult course so it also teaches you to balance and organize your work time and distribute your priorities.”
The depth of student work speaks for itself: sophomore Reagan Hild’s project, “Proteomic Markers of Vascular Dysfunction Related to Tauopathy and Degeneration in the Aging Brain,” is a fitting example of the sophistication students reach by their second year.
During their first year, students reach out to scientists in their field to gain mentorship on their topic. The experience exposes them to real-world professional dynamics, builds meaningful connections, and offers an early glimpse into what a career in science actually looks like.
Iovine-Massardi spoke to the program’s lasting impact. “It is really helpful as it develops your independence, researching skills, and helps you adapt to challenges that you may find as a scientist in the future,” she said.
By the time students complete the program, they leave with more than scientific knowledge. OSR teaches students research skills, discipline, and a stronger sense of curiosity that can last well beyond high school. At Mamaroneck High School, the program has become more than an academic opportunity; it has become a way for students to discover what they are capable of achieving.
“OSR is a great opportunity to find something that genuinely interests you and have the opportunity to explore that interest in a guided way,” Romita said.
