Do you like science? A fiery passion to get in the lab or see what your future career could be?
It might be time for an internship.
High school students, primarily seniors, are expected to do a great deal: college applications, community service, sports, clubs, classes, and now, internships. At the college level, internships can dramatically increase employment potential, as a 2024 report of internship programs by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that 52.7 percent of interns received a job offer (although this conversion rate is less than it was pre-pandemic). At the high school level, internships are still catching on — a 2020 study by the American Student Assistance cites that only two percent of high school students had completed internships.
High school students are looking toward the future with a mix of hope and uncertainty. While the prospect of taking on a high-level internship sounds exciting, it may also be a large investment of time and effort, as well as a source of stress.
The good news is that NCSSM offers their flagship Research and Mentorship programs (including the Summer Research and Innovation Program, or SRIP, directed by Dr. Sarah Shoemaker and the NCSSM Mentorship and Research office), which ⅔ of the student body is involved in, offering semester-long to yearlong opportunities to get ahead of the game. Finding an internship can be complicated, especially when you’re independently seeking out a research opportunity or choosing one in a field you’ve never been in but fits your goals.
Beyond securing an internship position, ensuring that you’ll get the experience you’re hoping for is yet another consideration – it’s hard to know what exactly to expect before you begin.
What types of internship opportunities are available for high school students?
If you have a field you enjoy (regardless of how broad or specific a topic), the first step in your internship journey is deciding what type of internship is right for you. There are two primary options for high school student internships: a research internship where you work with a mentor or a structured academic program.
Independent Research Internship
In an independently organized internship, you’ll most likely find yourself cold-emailing professors and requesting a position with them. Once you successfully find a mentor, you’ll usually work together to plan out the length of your internships, what your responsibilities and tasks will be, and how they’ll support you throughout your work.
One key pro of an independent internship is the greater freedom and flexibility for more self-designed work, as you’ll play a role in scheduling the internship timeline, coordinating tasks, and communicating what you hope to accomplish through the internship. This gives you a chance to develop individual projects with meaningful results, which makes you eligible to submit to science fairs, competitions, or research journals.
However, the biggest downside is also connected to that strength. If you aren’t already well-versed in the field of research, it can be a struggle to develop and coordinate your tasks and goals.
Formal Internship Program
With formal internship programs, you will have to apply and be selected to participate in that opportunity, which is typically affiliated with universities and other organizations (private and nonprofit) and has a designated timeline, subject matter, and faculty/mentors. Most importantly, they can be a great way to build academic skills and learn advanced subjects.
Once in, the opportunity to build connections with that school/organization is wide open. Some of these programs are held on-site at the university, meaning you’ll be able to experience college life: living on-campus, working at university labs and classrooms, and interacting with current students and professors. Programs usually have an established reputation and history, so mentors and people you network with may show you a good face. Sometimes, these programs may increase your chances of acceptance or at the very least, consider your attendance as demonstrated interest.
However, while you can sit back and trust the program’s structure after you get in, getting accepted is the hard part. You’ll be in a competitive application pool. These applications often have extensive requirements such as submitting transcripts, writing essays, and obtaining letters of recommendation. Even when you get in, you’ll have limited autonomy over deciding what, how, or when you want to do something.
Tips for finding the right internship program for you
Draw from past results and experiences. Interested in STEM? Check out past science fair winners and their projects, mentors, or other experts. Read about how they got there, and always be willing to reach out and ask for a chat. Consider which specific fields of study are most engaging to you.
Be prepared to make multiple attempts. When contacting researchers, remember that they are still working people. They may be overwhelmed with professional emails or other unsolicited emails like yours. If you don’t get a response, it’s not a personal affront; they may not have internship openings open.
Don’t reach out without doing your research. Research work will always be oriented toward a specialized topic. Just because you have a general interest in a field does not mean your internship will necessarily touch on your specific goals.
Be open-minded and resilient. It is far more common for labs to accept college students or post-docs, as opening the lab to a high schooler can be a risk. What makes your request special? Why should they trust you and your research knowledge/skills? Do you know what you’re doing? These are the questions you would want to answer in your requests.
Drinks and vibes at Cloche Coffee, Durham. (Teresa Fang/Stentorian)
Every season is study season. As such, there must be accommodations for hardworking high school students. Not just any back alley folding table, nor empty classroom or the desk in your dorm will do; a change of scenery will provide a chance to tune into your assignments with no distractions.
With a cozy atmosphere with good vibes, a clean feeling, and the convenience of drinks and snacks just one step away, studying at cafes calms you down while offering a sanctum to lock in at the same time. Here is the Stentorian’s review of the best studying spots around Ninth Street, in our new column Zooming Around Durham (or ZAD for short):
Food: Joe’s salted caramel latte has always been my go-to drink, and this Joe Van Gogh upholds that. Their lattes have a rather strong coffee taste but manage to be easy-going at the same time. In my opinion, the Chapel Hill Joe Van Gogh makes more characteristic lattes than anywhere else but maybe it’s because I am biased for my hometown.
Vibes: The design of the store lets in lots of natural light, and has an indie vibe because of the decorations and paintings from local artists on the walls. It has an innovative coffee-shop combo of wood tables and a colorful behind-the-counter. There are a few small outdoor tables to allow for conversation. The lofted study area is especially aesthetic and really makes you feel locked in to your work.
Price: Though the lattes with syrup are a bit pricey at around $6 per 20 oz cup, the milk choices do not cost extra. Joe’s tends to put a lot of ice in lattes, so make sure to drink it all before the ice melts.
Overall: 4.6/5 – NCSSM students are only 6 minutes away from an excellent study place. Though the student discount no longer applies here, if you know how to ask around the barista, you can score a free drink voucher.
Food: I wish I got one of the food items, but I got the normal iced caramel latte and chocolate cookie. The latte is an excellent blend of espresso and milk. There is no sandy aftertaste when you get to the bottom of your drink, as you usually do with these types of drinks. The cookie is reminiscent of home.
Vibes: This cafe and bakery is popular with NCSSM and Duke students, though still has an exquisite, woodland but also industrial vibe that is unique among all stores on Ninth Street. The atmosphere is artsy but also not loud and dim – perfect for calm, after-school studying.
Price: Only one size is offered with lattes, and this one was $5. It is worth it, considering the quality and international reputation of the coffee shop.
Overall: 4.5/5 – The only thing that would make this better is extending the hours; closing at 7 pm makes studying here for long times nearly impossible.
Food: This milk tea shop makes it clear from the title that their emphasis is not on the TEA; milk-based drinks take up half the menu, not counting milk teas (since these don’t use real milk). These milky drinks are heavy on the stomach but hit the spot when needed. Sweetness levels are not the same for each drink, making it a gamble to order your favorite item. It does not help that you can’t ask the cashier about the drinks, since customers order from a kiosk.
Vibes: Opening the door to the smells of warm boba makes this place unique on this street of bars and restaurants. However, it is not a prime place to study because of the loud music and empty store. There seem to be only 1-2 people in the store at all times, either the barista behind the counter staring at you or a customer sitting beside the kiosk, staring as you order.
Price: The prices of all the drinks on the menu are not worth the labor behind making them, and this is coming from a former Möge Tee barista. At $6 for a large milk tea with boba, it’s expensive for what it is; there are much better options for the same price here.
Overall: 2.5/5 – The drinks are not as good as they should be, and this is an anxiety-increasing place to stay for a long time.
Panera Bread — 13-min walk
Food: Staying here for dinner, I ordered the French onion soup with a portion of a baguette while my friend ordered a Cinnamon Swirl bagel. We both ordered some drink but forgot what size or type of drink. Luckily, our selections did not matter because we took a large-sized cup and had infinite refills. Though the infinite drinks part was good in helping us stay refreshed and satisfied with our studying, my soup was small, salty, and unfilling. When ordering from Panera, make sure you judge if the price is worth the portion size.
Vibes: Very good. There is indoor and outdoor seating, but in this cold weather, the outdoor seating was not completely set up. The inside is ambient and cozy, with enough space you won’t have to worry about Duke students taking up everything. There are also enough people there to feel comfortable.
Price: The food items are overpriced, but the bagel and drinks seem okay. Being a MyPanera member makes frequenting Panera more worth it.
Overall: 4/5 – Good, comfortable place for long-time studying and getting a little snack. It closes late enough for NCSSM students to catch the loop from Harris Teeter back to school on Wednesdays.
Food: I got the salted honey iced latte since it was a unique house-made syrup flavor. There is no surprise at how good it is. There is a rather milky flavor that complements the accented honey and salt flavor. If you don’t like coffee but still want to drink it, the lattes here are up your alley.
Vibes: Inside the cafe, good jazz and lofi are playing in the background, making it a cozy place for productivity. Outside, there are picnic tables on a small porch overlooking Duke’s track field. A good place for gossip.
Price: $5 for the 20oz, which is pretty typical. This is on the cheaper side of lattes.
Overall: 3.5/5 – The location and ambiance of this spot make studying here a beautiful experience, only if you beat the Duke students at getting a table first. Otherwise, you can order and pick up your coffee in around 10 minutes and walk back to school/another place to study.
Food: Superb boba. Superb food. My go-to is jasmine milk tea with boba, and it never disappoints. The sweetness levels are adjusted according to what you ask for, and the amount of ice has never been an issue. While the drinks do vary in temperature sometimes, the full drink is fulfilling.
Vibes: If you like K-pop, you would jam it out in here. If you didn’t, you would jam out anyway because of the boba. The tropical-style decorations, entertainment, and variety of seating options make hanging out a very memorable experience, although the music can be a bit loud and people tend to gossip here rather than do work.
Price: With boba, the cheapest large milk tea you can get is less than $4.
Overall: 3/5 – In terms of being a study spot, Quickly is not the ideal place to memorize anatomy and physiology or rack your brains over physics. However, it does have the best boba and popcorn chicken in this part of town, making the 20-minute trek worth it.
THE COVER PHOTO FOR VOLUME XLIV, NO. 1. TERESA FANG – STENTORIAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
By Teresa Fang, Stentorian Editor-in-Chief
HEAR YE! THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE SUMMARY OF INFORMATION TO HIT THE GROUND RUNNING.
This is the cover story for Volume XLIV, No. 1 (August 2024) issue, the first issue of the 2024-2025 academic year and the second issue in NCSSM history to have business ads and color-printing.
Over the past 40+ years, the North Carolina School of Science and Math (NCSSM) has worked to create lasting bonds between its students, faculty, and the subjects taught at the school through a world-class STEM curriculum and robust humanities and arts program. Since its founding, NCSSM has been a one-of-a-kind institution that has served as the model for 18 such specialized schools around the globe.
Zooming in on a prestigious reputation, the school is also home to one-of-a-kind memories and lifelong friendships. Especially at this time of year, summer always brings about an abundance of memories, central to the stories and sense of community NCSSM fosters for its students. Most importantly, all the resources are accessible on Blackbaud, Canvas, or a general Google search.
However, as most students find themselves particularly close to one or two departments or groups as the school year progresses, navigating the first week (or month) of NCSSM can be daunting. Icebreakers, club fairs, onslaught of applications… the list of things a student can do here is endless.
The Research Groups
Students who’ve been on a tour of NCSSM with the student ambassadors, will likely remember two things: the ambassadors’ blue jackets, and the different research groups (“RScis”).
One of the first departments established at NCSSM was Biology, located on the 3rd floor of the Bryan building (“3rd Bryan”). Accordingly, the first-ever research group was the Research in Biology group (“RBio”), led by Dr. Amy Sheck, who was initially a Biology instructor before becoming the current Dean of Science. Originally, the group was extremely exclusive, taking on 1-2 students per year. Because of its success, research groups quickly expanded across disciplines to become what we have now with six year-long research groups, each led by seasoned instructors in the fields: RBio, RChem, RPhys, RMath, RCompsci, and RHum.
Being part of a research group is fulfilling, but tough to get in, as many students apply when applications open in late September. But once in, a journey will quickly begin. Every year, the research groups send out droves of projects for competitions and conferences. In the 2024 competition season, 24 percent (15 out of 63) of the total awards at the North Carolina Science and Engineering Fair (NCSEF) were swept by NCSSM-Durham students; at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), 3 out of the 5 NCSSM students representing North Carolina won Grand Awards.
STEM Departments
While the NCSSM namesake includes “Science and Math,” the total number of STEM (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math, Computer Science, Engineering) courses offered is 131. Compared to the 155 total courses in the humanities (Art, Drama, English & Social Sciences, Music, and World Languages), there is a fairly balanced STEM and Humanities program at NCSSM.
Biology courses often look like a mix between classroom instruction and lab work. Offering 20 diverse courses taught by seven instructors, the biology curriculum is quite flexible for different interests.
Chemistry offers 18 courses, all providing opportunities to get hands-on experiences while dressed in fancy lab garb. While most juniors and seniors get assigned to the AP Chemistry courses as their required chemistry credits, it’s always fun to branch out to more niche chemistry or cross-discipline subjects like organic chemistry.
Physics is one that students tend to either love or hate. While most students say that physics courses are the hardest in the whole school, it depends on a student’s interest level, the specific course taken, and the teacher. But pay attention to the curriculum: for example, the problem-solving process that the 10 instructors teach is a universal skill. Just because you ran up 9 flights of stairs to get to your classroom on time does not mean you have no energy left for physics class.
Tucked away in a cozy space (and in classrooms in the ETC and Hunt), the Engineering and Computer Science classrooms look like a mix between a Lego building garage and a lecture hall. Offering 37 total courses, some cross-disciplinary courses include Biomedical Engineering, Satellite Design, and Cryptography, this department also hosts the school’s rocketry and robotics teams including the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC).
The math department also offers 37 courses, taught by 14 instructors, taking nearly the entire Watts building for classrooms. The math courses have a special block, the “O block,” as the only tutorial hours where students can work directly with the instructors. Around exam week, an influx of coloring sheets plaster the hallways and teachers pass out goodies with words of encouragement, letting students know that learning about numbers is a very human language.
If this range of classes wasn’t diverse enough, the STEM department is looking to create more classes tackling current technological advances and climate issues, according to Dr. Sheck. As students become interested in fluid dynamics and climate change, keep your eyes out for potential fluid dynamics and climate change courses in the future.
TERESA FANG – STENTORIAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Humanities Department
Be careful not to underestimate the Humanities programs, however, as it spans 155 courses taught by 18 instructors. This year, we also have a new Dean of Humanities, Dr. Javier Pabón, filling up the position left by Dr. Elizabeth Moose, who retired last June after 31 years of service to NCSSM.
While many STEM students can compete in prestigious competitions, Humanities students also do and more, demonstrating the power of human thought, shared experiences, and creativity. They tend to make up the majority of Ivy League admits from NCSSM, as Ivies today increasingly require students to be multifaceted. It’s one thing to learn, but it’s better to learn about how to think. Besides that philosophical reason, it’s also good to provide a break for the left brain to focus on reading, making art, playing an instrument, etc.
Counseling
There are many counselors geared towards different things, such as typical high school counseling, college and career, wellness, and academic accessibility. If you need anybody to talk to or answer questions about programs and scholarships, you can count on NCSSM’s 8 counselors, along with the Dean of Counseling Ms. Lori Newnam, and Program Assistant Ms. Pam Oxendine. Don’t know who your counselor is? In the first 2 months of school, you’ll be required to meet them.
ITS and Campus Safety
Contrary to its name, the Smart Bar is not a bar nor a place to get snacks. However, it is the place to go to consult the Information Technology and Systems (ITS) team for all your tech needs. From configuring microscopes to laptops, installing a free Adobe Suite, or providing you alternative devices while your computer is getting fixed, feel free to send in a ticket for all your requests or visit the ITS Wiki for more detailed how-tos. ITS also has a campus service where students can shadow the team and hold down the fort when the staff is off campus.
One of the most friendly faces on campus is Mr. Brian Wiggs, the Director of Campus Safety. With a team of uniformed officers, a dedicated cop, and Emergency Blue Light Boxes on campus 24/7, NCSSM always keeps its eyes out to guard against potential threats, from inclement weather to renovation alerts and drills. If you do not feel safe going somewhere outside, an officer can escort you. While on campus, make sure to keep your Student ID, which has all the important phone numbers on the back, and fob with you. Off-campus, make sure you have signed out with Orah on your phone.
PFM and Library
After its completed renovation in fall 2023, the PFM (the full, unabbreviated name remains a mystery) brings a stark contrast to the dining halls of our alumni, replacing the red brick walls with white paint and modernizing the general vibe with hanging lights and sofas. During Alumni Weekend last October, alumni wandered the dining hall with awe and pointed at new furniture and their old favorite seats. The only constants through the years seem to be the clay artwork at the back of the hall and the different PFM days – Taco Tuesday, Fried Chicken Wednesday, Fish Fry Day, etc. Other than serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same times every weekday (weekend times are different), PFM also holds special events like BBQ on the Bryan Lawn, Super Bowl dinner, and Senior Breakfast.
As a given, the library is a hotspot for students to work independently or for group projects, utilizing all sorts of seating options from rocking chairs to medium-sized study rooms. While it can be loud after 4 p.m., the library is a chill space for working in between classes, or just to have a little conversation with our librarians (Mr. Sharron Johnson is everybody’s best friend).
Athletics
One good thing about participating in athletics at NCSSM is the welcoming atmosphere; if you’ve never done a sport before but have always wanted to try, now’s the time to do it with no judgment.
As a 2A school, NCSSM offers 21 varsity sports while the Intramurals program has a 95% participation rate among the student body. A member of the Super Six 1A/2A Conference, we play against East Wake Academy, Falls Lake Academy, Franklin Academy, Raleigh Charter, and Research Triangle High School. Outside of the conference, NCSSM plays against public and private schools in the Research Triangle Area. If you pay attention to the game schedules on Instagram and the GoUnis website, maybe you can watch NCSSM play against your home high school!
NCSSM Student Government and the Student Advisory Board also host a variety of fun events that are not regular sports games, such as after-check Volleyball Lock-Ins and the Watermelon Run. Individual dorms sometimes organize after-check gym events as well.
TERESA FANG – STENTORIAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Student Life & Residential Living
While applying to NCSSM, you probably watched a few “A Day in the Life of an NCSSM Student” blogs on YouTube. Every student has their own perspectives and favorite moments at NCSSM, and we encourage you to make your own.
With 19 residence halls and a Community Coordinator (CC) and Residential Living Assistants (RLAs) in each, students are taken care of both in their life as a student and their life as a neighbor and independent adult-to-be. On the weekdays and weekends, halls may organize field trips to downtown Durham or surrounding areas for fun activities and events like the Farmer’s Market, thrifting, ice skating, sushi-eating contests with other halls, or more. On-campus activities may look like after-check Sip ‘n Paints, stargazing, presentation/movie nights, or more. Check your hall’s activities calendar for the complete list!
On a community level, various clubs and organizations will host events throughout the year, with the most popular being block parties and cultural festivals. The school tends to set up little fairs on various lawns and celebrations on Hill Street, providing free snacks and swag for students to de-stress and socialize. On a more serious note, students also attend College Fairs, Family Day, an end-of-the-year Awards Ceremony, and more.
Clubs
There are 100+ student-led clubs and organizations at NCSSM that can cover your every interest. If there isn’t one yet, chartering one is always possible. Other than the cultural organizations, here are three of the largest and most active clubs on campus:
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA): With 70+ active students every year, FBLA sends a massive team to state and national competitions throughout the year, proving their skills in business and management.
Model United Nations (UN): Emphasizing public speaking, international affairs, and diplomacy, Model UN sends its 50+ members to yearlong conferences at in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities.
Science Olympiad: Almost every NCSSM kid grew up doing Science Olympiad, and NCSSM’s junior varsity and varsity teams are the best of the best. The teams of 30+ students practice/study weekly for their events and almost always compete at the national level.
Student Media
Representing NCSSM’s academic and creative advances and student community are the four following school-sponsored, student-led publications:
The Stentorian: NCSSM’s student-run news source, established in 1981. Operated by a team of 15+ students, the newspaper prints monthly, updates the online news website with articles daily, and serves the NCSSM-Durham and local community. Contributions from any and all students are welcome.
Broad Street Scientific (BSS): NCSSM’s annual student scientific research journal, written by the students and edited by the students. The BSS editorial board accepts research papers every winter, edits them during JTerm, and distributes copies to students, teachers, and donors near the end of school.
Fifth World: NCSSM’s student humanities research journal, also published annually. The namesake of this journal originates in the Hopi creation myth, where the fifth world is the final dimension out of five where peace and harmony are restored to humanity. Likewise, every year the journal is an impressive compilation of stories by students reaching into the ups and downs of humanity.
Blue Mirror: If you have pieces of art or writing that you think are beautiful and should be shared, submit them to NCSSM’s literary magazine, Blue Mirror. This publication prints semesterly and is always met with great enthusiasm at its open artist/author readings. You may laugh, cry, shout, or sing with even more emotions when you hear about the works on each page.
At NCSSM, each department tells a part of the school’s cultural story. We all contribute to our school through our individual experiences, so go make your own memories! As the sun sets and students retire to their dorms, the campus hums with the promise of another day of discovery and growth.
For some students, the gym is their safe place: it’s somewhere they can go to release stress, meet new people, and get good plain ol’ exercise. Some go to lift weights while others run on the treadmill or get an intense bike ride in. Either way, everyone has one thing in common ⎯ they want to get a good workout. So, the question is: where to work out on (or off) campus?
On Campus:
Students at NCSSM can enjoy the gym, dance studio, and weight room all located in the Physical Education Center (PEC). The gym is open for certain hours to students who want to play a game of basketball, practice volleyball skills, or prepare for the dodgeball games later in the school year. The dance studio provides an open space for both the dance and cheer teams, as well as students interested in pilates or yoga. Finally, the weight room offers a diverse range of equipment to grow your gains. It can get crowded quickly though; the most popular hours are afternoon/evening once classes have gotten out. Be sure to keep on the lookout for after-check events with your hall; these are great ways to get a workout in while bonding with your hallmates!
Off-Campus:
Another popular option is Planet Fitness – about a 5-minute walk from campus. NCSSM students can be seen leaving campus with their gym buddies early in the morning and later in the afternoon. Planet Fitness is well-liked by students for its cheap fees and student discounts. The commercial gym boasts high-quality amenities which include a diverse range of both weights and cardio equipment. Not only is it open 24/7, but Planet Fitness states that it “has the best value on the planet.” With two different membership options ⎯ a Classic or Black Card ⎯ and the High School Summer Pass, students can find what works for them and their bank account.
Now, for those of you who find joy not in weights and cardio equipment but in pilates and yoga, Ninth Street offers two different options: Pure Barre and Yoga Off East. PureBarre offers a diverse range of classes throughout the week: those targeting strength and endurance, others flexibility and recovery, and some that incorporate both cardio and strength training. These workouts are low-impact and full-body, allowing you to get in some effective and satisfying exercise. The studio offers both a free first class and beginner classes for those just starting. Referring a friend can also earn you a free class; if this interests you, find another student and try it out!
Just down the street is Yoga Off East: it offers weekly classes that focus on core strength, stretching, recovery, and meditation. For newcomers, the studio offers three classes for $30 and has a membership option. If this speaks to you, feel free to grab a buddy and go check it out!
While there are many other options around Durham, those can be difficult to get to. Remember, you need a buddy when leaving campus. While walking is the most common mode of travel here, those with bikes can travel a bit further; if you and your friend both have a bike, you may have a larger pick of workout facilities.
Some things to keep in mind when choosing a gym or studio: accessibility, costs, transportation, and most importantly, if it’s realistic. To determine this, you’ll need to do something that you will do almost every day here at school: research. Happy gym hunting!
Every junior brings two things with them when they come to NCSSM: shower shoes and lots and lots of questions. In this article, I’ll give you 11 bits of advice I wish I had during my first year at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics:
If You Need Help, Ask for It.
To put it bluntly, every adult in Science and Math is paid thousands of dollars to help you fix your problems. The only challenge is finding the right person to ask. Don’t be afraid to ask teachers, Community Coordinators, and other administrative personnel for help when you need it — they’re here to serve you.
Go With the Flow.
Things will go wrong at Science and Math, it’s all but inevitable. Learning how to ride the wave of failure and stay calm when things aren’t going your way is one of the most important things you’ll learn during your junior year.
Work Hard to Learn Names.
During your first days and weeks at NCSSM, focus on learning as many names as you can. Oftentimes, simply learning someone’s name can be the greatest barrier to making a friend. By your first extended weekend, aim to be on a first-name basis with the people who live near you and at least one person in each of your classes.
Friend Groups are Flexible.
During your first semester at NCSSM, friend groups are extremely malleable. You’ll form and dissolve connections almost every day. Do not be worried if you don’t feel like you have an ideal friend group then, or at any point during your junior year.
Try New Things!
Living at Science and Math can be an amazing opportunity to reinvent yourself! Have a competition you always wanted to participate in? A sport you always wanted to try out for? There’s no better time to go out and give it your best shot. As the year goes on, however, remember to…
Manage Your Time Commitments.
You only have so many hours in the day, and a sizeable portion of those will be taken up by classes and homework. Balancing the remaining time between socializing, studying, and sleep will prevent stress and protect your health in the long run, especially during high workload times such as exam season. Google Calendar is amazing for visualizing your schedule, but it isn’t essential — use whatever works best for you!
Find Alone Time.
One thing you’ll notice quickly is that you’re almost always surrounded by your peers. Moments when you’re truly alone will be few and far between. Actively seeking alone time after school or during free periods can be super beneficial to your mental and physical health.
Talk to Your Teachers.
The teachers at Science and Math are some of the kindest I’ve ever met and will try their best to help you find academic success. Teachers here have high expectations, but they also know that NCSSM students will need extra support. Don’t be afraid to communicate if you have worries about directions or deadlines.
Clean Up After Yourself.
No one likes having to clean up someone else’s mess. Learning to leave common spaces just as you found them — or better — is an essential part of living independently at NCSSM. Getting in the habit of cleaning up after yourself in your room, on your hall, and in study spaces will keep your fellow students happy and healthy.
Complaints May Not Reflect Reality.
Complaining is Science and Math students’ number two favorite activity, just behind stressing about college, and just in front of complaining about stressing about college. A fair amount of the negative opinions you’ll encounter are overstated — don’t let them stop you from pursuing things you’ll enjoy.
Everything Will Be Okay, in the End.
As you get deeper into the school year, and stress begins to build up, remember that you are a student at NCSSM. You were chosen from a pool of exceedingly qualified applicants because you are smart, driven, and capable. Keep going with the flow, and you’ll be all right in the end. Science and Math students are quite good at building a bright future for themselves.
A year ago, I never would’ve imagined I would be at a soccer game in Chapel Hill between Manchester City and Celtic with four great friends, but on July 23, that’s where I found myself! I gained all four of those valuable relationships through a shared love of sports. Whether it was running cross country or watching a Carolina basketball game, we spent lots of quality time together with a common thread – athletics.
NCSSM is a huge adjustment for everyone. For most students, it’s their first time living away from home. In a very academically challenging environment, it’s important to participate in physical activities and make new friends outside of class. Both of these can be accomplished through participating in or supporting school sports. It feels great to get outside and move after a long day of learning and the friendships and camaraderie formed by being part of a team can last a lifetime.
I have made so many great memories with the friends I met through athletics. We got to see some players and the coach of Manchester City up close at the soccer game; I know that moment is something I’ll never forget. It was just another experience I wouldn’t have had if I hadn’t participated in sports at NCSSM.
Don’t just take it from me! I asked Asa Zengerle, a rising NCSSM senior, about the impact sports made on him during his junior year. When posed this question he responded, “Being a part of NCSSM sports has been such a great experience. I played three sports during my junior year (cross-country, basketball, and spring track) and met so many awesome people during each one. My coaches and teammates were all super supportive and everyone on each team was always really competitive while still encouraging their teammates and cheering them on. Sports at NCSSM are one of my favorite things about the school and I’m excited to do them again this year.” Zengerle’s recollection of his experiences is exciting and encouraging to those considering participating in NCSSM athletics.
Being on an NCSSM sports team has extra significance for me. I came from a small early college with no athletic teams, so I was very excited to finally have the opportunity to experience the school spirit and pride of playing for and cheering on my school’s teams. I was not disappointed; I love the electric atmosphere at sporting events and it’s a great feeling to compete with NCSSM printed on my chest. I’m sure that is a sentiment shared by other students as well.
I can still imagine my group of friends huddled together in a cramped room yelling at the computer monitor that displayed a game you could’ve assumed our lives depended upon. College and professional sports bring NCSSM students together (or cause some healthy rivalry) just as much as school sports. It’s clear around campus that sports fans are everywhere. You can see jerseys worn to class and social events, big games on TV screens in hall lounges, and pennants on the walls of students’ rooms. Regardless of where your allegiance lies, you will be able to connect with others who support the same team. This is yet another way to bond with friends throughout your NCSSM experience.
There are so many different ways to immerse yourself in a place like this; the possibilities are endless. My love of sports connected me with so many great people and led to countless friendships and opportunities. If you’re looking for that group of friends you really click with or you’re just searching for a new activity to try, consider giving sports a shot! It will certainly be a decision you won’t regret. Go Unis!
Taking your first steps on campus can be daunting. The complex naming conventions of the campus buildings and the multistory floor map complete with tunnels, twists, and turns can catch your eye and take up your attention. However, as you explore this place, there are some unique characteristics to find that add to the clever, quirky personality of Science and Math.
Koi fish are fond of the art pond
Go ahead and stroll on out the Reynolds breezeway side door closest to Beall and follow the sideway to the right. You will end up at one of two established ponds on campus! The art pond is home to beautiful flowers, nice white noise, peacefulness, and some striking fish. If you take a good look into the water, you will find some colored creatures enjoying their time next to the art studio. A great way to reconnect with nature after a long school day!
Sidewalk stroll around school
While the sidewalks on the front of campus are often in use by students or faculty, the path on the backside of campus is much quieter. You may find a cross-country runner speeding over the slight hill along Sprunt Avenue or a neighborhood walker taking in the view of UniVille. The trail that follows the corner of the soccer field even allows a brief moment where you are fully one with nature, with trees on both sides.
Watts Tunnel delightful ducks
As you walk out of the Ground Watts classrooms heading to Reynolds, look to your right! The end of the wall boasts a myriad of doodles and drawings from past students. Some particularly intriguing drawings are those of happy ducks. Though a bit far from a pond, the impressive artistic skill used to create these birds adds some spirit to the dark, spooky tunnels.
Staircase surprises
NCSSM boasts many sets of staircases, and one of the most interesting is the stairs from the PFM up to the physics floor. You may find that the number of steps you take between floors changes as you go higher. This quirky architectural design is also portrayed in the ceiling heights of the different Bryan/Beall floors. Also, don’t forget about the ETC stairwell to the right of the entrance to the music suite. It is easy to breeze past that staircase and think you have to wander through the ETC to make your way to the Dry Lab, but there are stairs to get you there even quicker!
A variety of vending machines
Are you hungry past PFM hours? Is a need for sugar distracting you from work? Don’t worry, there are many vending machines on campus to feed your appetite! With several different versions across Hunt, Reynolds, and Bryan, a variety of snacks are easily within reach. However, be careful to note which type of food or drink is located where, as some are not found in all the machines. Also, be mindful of how you are paying⎯some machines prefer cash and some prefer card.
I encourage each of you to take up the challenge of seeking out each of these features and looking closer into some integral parts of the NCSSM landscape!
“I CAME, I DANCE, I CONQUERED” AT ASIAFEST 2024. ASIAN STUDENT ASSOCIATION
By Lily Frank, Stentorian Staff Writer
“We don’t just want to highlight the cultures themselves – we want to highlight the experiences that NCSSM students have with their culture,” stated Leah Nikhil ‘25, one of the five officers of NCSSM’s’s Asian Student Association (ASA) alongside Nicholas Win, Olivia Chen, Aadiya Dasgupta, and Andrea Dela Pena. Together they form “NOALA”, as Dela Pena shared, symbolizing their commitment to “work collaboratively on different tasks and events, one being Asiafest.”
Every year, NCSSM students hold different events and activities outside of the classroom and within the community. From Koffeehaus in the pit beside Woolworth to block parties on Hill Street, students love to get involved. Of these, some of the most anticipated events are the cultural festivals, or fests. These fests are headed by ASA, the Black Student Union (BSU), and the Latin Student Union (LSU) to make Asiafest, Africafest, and Latin America Fest.
These fests, however, take a long time and are filled with careful planning and dedication.
“There’s a ton that goes into planning, so expect to see all five of us (NOALA) most likely huddled around a conference table in the library throughout the year,” Chen emphasizes.
Preparations start weeks or even months in advance: from the beginning planning stages to the dance practices late in the evening, these fests take hard work from everyone involved. As Nikhil puts it, “Leading up to Asia Fest, you face many hours of stressful practices, struggles, setbacks, and difficulties. But throughout these experiences, you make lifelong friends and learn so much about who you are, all while picking up some new skills and awesome moves you never could have imagined yourself doing before.”
All three fests focus on the cultural backgrounds of NCSSM students, or, as Nikhil states, “We want to acknowledge the way students feel about their culture and help them take strength and pride in their culture, as well as emphasizing the community and support they have here at NCSSM.” The festivals allow NCSSM students to connect with their heritage and how they live with their cultural background in their day-to-day lives in the classroom or within the community.
“We want Asiafest and ASA as a whole to both encourage students to learn about their classmates’ cultures and how special they are, but also encourage them to reflect on their relationships with their culture,” added Nikhil.
Asiafest, Africafest, and Latin America Fest allow students of various cultures to connect with and express their experiences. Still, it can only happen with the shared collaboration of seniors who step up to lead and juniors who want to join in.
To any juniors unsure of their place within the fest, Dasgupta says, “1000% join! While it may seem overwhelming at first, there are so many ways to be involved with the fest… whether that’s performing, leading an act, being a part of tech crew, ushering, and more. We can’t wait to introduce our juniors to Asiafest and see them do amazing things in it!”
With the school year starting, preparations for all 3 fests will also begin. As Win adds, “A great way to learn more and get involved in Asiafest is to attend ASA welcome and interest meetings.” ASA, BSU, and LSU are open to any interested students, so keep an eye out on social media or around the school for more information.
There is no better time to join than now because, as Nikhil states, “When you shine brightly on that stage for the first time side-by-side with your friends, proud of who you are and all the dedication and talent you displayed to get there, it is an exhilarating experience that you’ll never forget nor may get a chance to experience ever again.”
At NCSSM, there are a plethora of students who come from academically gifted backgrounds who have exhibited extraordinary levels of skill and unbelievable levels of determination. Many of these students have been declared among the “top students” at their home high schools due to their star-studded academic record, exemplary extracurriculars, and other achievements. When collectively gathering these students into one school, the institution becomes an academic powerhouse designed to shoot these students toward success. However individuals, during their time as students at NCSSM, may begin developing feelings of inadequacy, as they often compare themselves to their peers.
With numerous research and extracurricular opportunities at NCSSM, it can easily become overwhelming for students. This can often lead to students comparing themselves to their peers and feeling lacking in the differences. Those comparisons can often contribute to competition between students, which can lead to them constantly trying to do more to win an imaginary contest they’ve created in their heads that will continue for as long as they remain in this mindset. Eventually, if this behavior continues, these students will inevitably face burnout. Students may begin to feel discouraged and lose their motivation to do more while also feeling less motivated to keep up with their current commitments.
While knowing about these pitfalls does not prevent you from falling victim to one, being aware of your situation will make it easier to dig your way out if necessary. This school is filled with intelligent people who are on the path to doing great things – including you! It’s important to remember that everyone will progress at their own pace and everyone’s path is different, so focusing on your own is integral. As the saying goes, comparison is the thief of joy. Don’t rob yourself of happiness at the expense of trying to keep up with ever-changing standards based on the accomplishments and work of others.
MARCELLUS DAY – STENTORIAN STAFF WRITER, OPEN DURHAM
By Marcellus Day, Stentorian Staff Writer
It’s a dark and stormy night for NCSSM, as the ghosts and ghouls of Watts Hospital and old NCSSM students who didn’t complete their orientation on time seek new victims: the juniors. Fret not, they aren’t as scary as physics labs, and with this short guide, you will have all the tools you need to identify and deal with all the hauntings of NCSSM.
The Royall Nurse is the ghost of a heartbroken former Watts Hospital nurse. She went out past curfew to meet with her lover and never returned. That is, she never returned alive. She can be found roaming residential halls in search of juniors to hypnotize into breaking the 2-week rule, accompanied by the sound of her high heels clacking on the floor. If found, start over-explaining your comfort TV show that you binge-watched for the fourth time instead of writing your paper to her. She will soon realize that there is no hope for you and retreat.
The Phantom Plate Picker is a ghoul with sticky fingers. His death? While leaping out of bed at 8:25 a.m., knowing he had an 8:30 a.m. class, he slipped on a PFM plate that he stole and fell to his demise. He loves to steal plates from the PFM and place them in unsuspecting victims’ rooms, causing a great heap of paranoia yet an equal amount of laziness on the part of the victim. If you find yourself a victim, sneak the plates back into the PFM and return them.
These are the least of the frightening beings that we share this campus with. Be on the lookout, and if you see something, report it to the Unicorn Paranormal Activity Team. More guides will be shared throughout the year.
