Langley Student Medals At 2024 International Geography Championships

MCLEAN, VA — Ryan Minton of McLean, a rising sophomore at Langley High School, finished among the top 12 medalists at the recent 2024 International Geography Championships in Vienna, Austria.

International Academic Competitions hosts the International Geography Championships, which celebrates geographic excellence and fosters cultural exchange.

Competing against students from 21 U.S. states, 16 countries and Hong Kong, Minton demonstrated his exceptional geographic knowledge and analytical skills among the world's brightest young geographers.

The following is a summary of Minton's notable achievements, according to an International Academic Competitions release"

• Gold Medalist: Economic Geography Exam (High School Division) – Demonstrated a thorough understanding of the geographic determinants of economics and international business through a rigorous 75-question exam.
• Silver Medalist: Symposium (High School Division) – Presented groundbreaking research on drone fumigation as a potential solution to illicit crop cultivation in Colombia and Myanmar, showcasing his ability to apply geographic knowledge to real-world challenges.
• Silver Medalist: Geographeud Team Event (High School Division, Captain of Team Virginia) – Led Team Virginia B to a second-place finish in this fast-paced global competition, similar to the American game show "Family Feud," where teams compete to name items within a geographical category.
• Bronze Medalist: OPEC Simulation (High School Division) – Excelled as a representative of the Republic of Congo, showcasing his understanding of energy policy and international diplomacy. This immersive experience included a visit to OPEC headquarters and a meeting with OPEC representatives.
• Semifinalist: 2024 International Geography Bee World Championships (High School Division) – Solidified his position among the top geography students globally.
• Best Dressed Award: Congress of Vienna Simulation (High School Division) – Recognized for his compelling and historically accurate portrayal of Tsar Alexander I, showcasing his understanding of political geography and historical context.