Hi!
I am currently a middle school student who will be attending high school next year. I have a passion for science and I attempted science fair (ISEF) in 7th grade. I went up to the regional level (but in my school if you participate you automatically advance). Additionally, my idea was pretty simplistic and I didn’t know how to develop a more meaningful project with a little more depth to it. Just to give you a little insight into the science side of me: I compete in a state math and science competition (consistently won top ten rankings in my categories for two years), take advances courses (I am two math grades ahead in school), and have high grades. Nowadays, I have started reading some science textbooks (ex. Biology and Chemistry) in an attempt to get some more foundation knowledge to form a project, but I haven’t seen much improvement. How should I start the process? Is there a specific method (ex. studying, journals, and random searching) to help me (particularly looking to ISEF participants for tips)? I know many of the ISEF finalists’ projects by heart, and to me, they are like idols. I just want to know how I achieve such academic prowess as them. (I apologize if my dreams sound too high), thank you for your time.
Honesty, it depends on what state you are from and what connections you have. Unfortunately, the science fair has too much advantage if your parents are professors.
I also think that your reason for doing the science fair is misadjusted. You shouldn’t do the science fair to go to ISEF. That is like saying I want to study law to become the president. ISEF is a byproduct of hard work or good connections (sadly), not a goal.
- ISEF alumni (9th and 10th) and grand award (2nd) winner
I am isef finalist and won 2nd place. I have created a website for guidance to chance at ISEF.
The site is called hsresearch weebly com (CC doesn’t allow URL)
I would also suggest watching the Science Fair Documentary by National Geographic. It follows the story of ISEF Finalists and I think it was beneficial when starting to thing of tips and trick for competing at high scale science fairs. It was also nice to see what others go through in their science fair journey and know that you can do this! Good Luck