Guiding Young Minds: The Science Research Society's Mission at OHS

Founded by Lakshmi Agrawal an 11th grader at OHS the Science Research Society is a new society designed to help OHS students embark on their scientific research journeys. Lakshmi hopes to through the society's weekly meetings, offer guidance for every stage of the research journey from selecting a topic, to writing literature reviews, conducting original in-depth research, and presenting. One of the goals of society is to make scientific research accessible and introduce it to students as early as possible. It aims to support students through the research process by providing guidance but also an opportunity to ask questions and engage with other students conducting independent research. Lakshmi (‘26) decided to start the society because she believes that “Scientific research is crucial for advancing knowledge and driving innovation, both of which are fundamental to societal progress and improving quality of life”. However, she also recognizes that for many students independent research can seem daunting and overwhelming or they simply might not know how to get started, making it feel inaccessible. Lakshmi is determined to change this through the Society which does more than merely provide students with guidance. It also encourages students to participate in summer research programs, science fairs, and other opportunities by discussing various options in meetings and providing links to the relevant websites in the meeting notes.

One of the key events Society members are encouraged to participate in is the Science Research Colloquium, a longstanding tradition at OHS. For many years, the Colloquium has served as an opportunity for OHS students to showcase their original research. The annual event has been directed by a variety of dedicated OHS instructors over the years, with OHS physics/biology instructor Ms. Marie Hamaoui being the current director. Students submit their original research and once approved present it at a schoolwide event allowing students to practice presenting their research and findings an essential skill for researchers. After seeing how impactful the Colloquium was Lakshmi decided to create the society helping students better prepare for submitting research to it and providing additional guidance. In addition, the Society plans to host guest speaker events and OHS instructor spotlights. These will include instructors with extensive experience in scientific research including, experience in authoring papers, presenting at conferences, and working in industry. Lakshmi hopes that these events will help OHSers “tackle the million-dollar question in research: academia or industry”. Ultimately she hopes the Science Research Society will foster in students a genuine passion and appreciation for science and research. Whether they choose to publish a paper, publish a literature review, compete in a science fair, or join a summer research program or lab the society is committed to guiding them along the way. According to Lakshmi one of her firm beliefs is that “Anyone can be in science; all you need is the patience to observe and the curiosity to discover”.