Ossining Students Dominate at State Science Competition

On March 24, five Ossining seniors once again earned top awards for their exceptional scientific research skills, this time at the New York State Science and Engineering Fair (NYSSEF). These latest achievements reaffirm their place among the state’s most promising young scientists.

Reese Caparelli and Daniela Cordero secured third place in Life Sciences, while Vincent Chen placed third in Physical Science. Mary Liguori earned second place in Life Sciences, and Sofia Magalhaes took home first place in Life Sciences. In addition to her first-place win, Sofia was awarded the prestigious grand prize—an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

Reese Caparelli, who earned a first-place finish just weeks earlier at the Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF), will join Sofia at ISEF for her study on how road noise affects bird communication. By analyzing how song sparrows modify their vocal frequencies to overcome environmental noise, she uncovered important findings about how human activity influences wildlife behavior.

“Before I began my research, I was never interested in birds or noise pollution,” explained Reese. “After reading a lot about animal behavior my sophomore year in science research, I came across a study about this topic and was immediately intrigued. I grew to love my topic and have become passionate about environmental science.”

Reese took full ownership of her research and conducted her study almost entirely on her own. She acquired her own equipment, gathered field data independently, and meticulously analyzed her findings.

“I feel really honored that my research has been recognized at both the regional and state levels,” she added. I feel like all the time and effort I've put into my research has paid off.”

For Sofia, scientific exploration is deeply personal. Her project, "Region-Specific Maintenance of Blood Brain Barrier Integrity by Astrocytes: Implications for Involvement in Selective Vulnerability to Alzheimer’s Disease," investigates how astrocytes, a type of neuronal support cell, may actually enhance certain brain regions’ resistance to Alzheimer's disease. Her inspiration stems from her great-grandmother, who battled the illness.

“I was made aware of the disease early on as my great-grandmother had it, so I had always wondered what could be done to help,” said Sofia. “By joining the [science research] program, I realized that I could actually take on this challenge and additionally found an interest in glial cell roles in the brain, which I plan to pursue in college as well."

Winning first place at the state level and securing a grand prize ticket to ISEF is a dream come true for Sofia.

“For me personally, this award is a recognition of the years of hard work I’ve poured into my research,” she added. “It’s easy to doubt yourself when conducting research at such a young age, but earning a place at ISEF has shown me how much I’ve grown as both a scientist and a presenter.”

The accomplishments of these students reflect the strength of Ossining High School’s Science Research Program. Led by teachers and Co-Directors Angelo Piccirillo and Valerie Holmes, the program is a rigorous, multi-year commitment that allows students to pursue independent research projects under the guidance of expert mentors. For Sofia, Reese and their peers, the program has been more than just an academic experience—it has been a community of collaboration and support.

“It would have never been possible without the constant support of my peers, and Mr. Piccirillo and Ms. Holmes,” Sofia said. “Awards like this obviously symbolize the success of the program, but more so reflect the sheer dedication of every staff member and student involved.”

OHS Principal LaToya Langley commended the students for their outstanding achievements.

“The accomplishments of these students are nothing short of extraordinary,” said OHS Principal LaToya Langley. “Their dedication, resilience, and passion for discovery embody the very essence of scientific excellence. We are incredibly proud to see them represent Ossining at ISEF.”

As these outstanding students advance to the international stage at ISEF, their achievements inspire their peers and highlight the impact of curiosity, dedication, and collaboration in the pursuit of scientific discovery.