Congratulations to two of our Piscataway High School science scholars who have been chosen for selective and prestigious science programs as they enter their senior years!

Juniors Sophia Abdul and Kai Harrel were honored for these achievements alongside their families at the May 14 Board of Education meeting, by Superintendent Erskine R. Glover, Board President Nancy Salgado-Cowan, and Principal Chris Baldassano.

• Sophia Abdul has been accepted into the highly competitive Governor’s School of the Sciences at Drew University. This three-week, tuition-free residential program brings together some of New Jersey’s most talented high school students for an immersive experience in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research.

High school students across New Jersey apply in the fall of their junior year for participation in the following summer. This rigorous application process considers grades, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, PSAT/SAT scores, and a demonstration of an ongoing interest in science.  Sophia was selected from a pool of exceptional applicants across the state with only 60 students total earning a spot at Governor’s School of the Sciences.

Established in 1983, the Governor’s School of the Sciences offers participants the opportunity to engage in rigorous college-level coursework, collaborate with leading scientists, and conduct hands-on research projects. This year’s program will run from July 12th through August 1st on the Drew University campus in Madison, NJ.  

• Kai Harrel has been selected to participate in the highly competitive Rutgers Youth Enjoy Science (RUYES) Program at Rutgers University.

This prestigious program provides students the opportunity to engage in advanced cancer research alongside leading scientists and practicing physicians who are at the forefront of their fields. Kai was selected from a national pool of over 150 applicants for just five available positions, a testament to both his academic excellence and his commitment to pursuing a future in medicine.

As part of a two-year cohort, Kai will receive mentorship, hands-on research experience, and exposure to critical issues in cancer science and health care innovation. This opportunity places him among a select group of emerging scholars dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the medical field.