WSSEF 2026: Reflections from My Second Year
Two weekends ago, I attended the Washington State Science and Engineering Fair for the second year in a row. Because my first year had gone better than I expected, I arrived this time feeling both excited and a little nervous. I wanted to challenge myself again and see how my project would hold up after another year of learning more about astronomy and research.
I arrived around 8:30 in the morning to set up my project before judging began at 9:00. Before my first round of judging, I visited the Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS), Seattle Astronomical Society (SAS), and our Youth Astronomers Society of Seattle (YASS) booth. It was really exciting to see our materials set up there, including business cards and outreach activities to get other kids interested! Seeing YASS represented at the fair made the experience feel even more meaningful because it connected my own research with the community I have been helping build.
During the first judging session, I presented my exoplanet transit project to two judges. They asked thoughtful questions and took notes while I explained my methods and results. Specifically, they asked me how I collected the data, how I was able to confirm it was a hot Jupiter (using the orbital calculations and physics of it), and how I know that my data is accurate. I know presenting can be nerve-wracking, but I actually really enjoyed this process! Presenting research is one of my favorite parts about science because it gives me the chance to share what I have learned and think through new questions at the same time.
After the first judging session ended around 11:00, I returned to the TAS and SAS booth and spent more time talking with members of the community. I met Keith, the president of the Tacoma Astronomical Society (Photo slide 1), who told me about their youth program. We talked about my astronomy background and some of the other projects I have worked on. It was inspiring to connect with people who share the same curiosity about astronomy and who are excited about supporting younger students who want to get involved.
Later in the day I had a second round of judging, which followed a similar format. After that, I spent time walking around the fair and exploring other exhibits. One area that stood out to me was a 3D printing stand where I learned about how the technology is being used in creative and practical ways. I was especially interested in hearing how people can design and print tools directly when they need them instead of buying replacements, and even how similar approaches are used in environments like submarines where access to equipment is limited. It made me think about how engineering and astronomy often overlap in unexpected ways.
Throughout the day I also spoke with other students and visitors curious about YASS and shared my contact information with several people who were interested in getting involved. One of my goals has been to continue growing YASS and connecting more students with opportunities in astronomy, so it was exciting to meet people who were curious about joining our community.
What I enjoy most about WSSEF is seeing how many different directions curiosity can take people. Walking through the fair and talking with other students reminded me that science is not just about individual projects. It is about sharing ideas, learning from each other, and building communities around questions we care about.
To end the day, I was honored to receive second place for my project! More than anything, the experience reminded me how much I enjoy presenting research and connecting with other people who are excited about exploring the universe.
