For the past decade, Manhasset High School students have consistently distinguished themselves as semifinalists in the Intel (formerly Westinghouse) Science Talent Search. On Jan. 16, Manhasset was in the national spotlight once more as five research students were named among the nation's 300 brightest and best.

Seniors Allegra Giovine, Jonathan Lii and Elisa Ayarza received semifinalist designation in social science research while Ray Musalo and Winston Wang received it in science research. Their five research papers were among the total of 12 that were submitted by Manhasset's students, five in science and seven in social science. This recognition brings the number of Manhasset's semifinalists to 29 students over the past 10 years.

Elisa Ayarza's social science project asked the question Choosing a Doctor: Does Affirmative Action Matter? while Allegra Giovine's focused on Relational vs. Positional Female Social Behavior in Same-Sex and Mixed-Sex Competitive Academic Situations. The third social science paper submitted by Jonathan Lii was a Cross Cultural Doll Study of Young Ethnic Chinese Females in Taiwan and the United States. The two science projects were as follows: Raymond Musalo's Characterization of the Imprinted Gene Ipl and Winston Wang's Determination of Thrombopoietin Production Sites Among Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells.

In making the announcement, High School Principal William Stark said, "Once again, Manhasset students have received national recognition for their outstanding accomplishments. We are proud of what they have achieved through initiative, diligence and hard work. All the participants in our research program have gained an understanding of research methodology that will serve them well in future endeavors. The team effort of staff, parents and family has helped to make Manhasset High School a climate for student success." He congratulated both students and their science research advisors Peter Guastella, assisted by Richard Soviero, and social science advisors Frank McDermott and Elliot Wong. Frank McDermott is district coordinator for social studies and Ronald Zanni is district coordinator for science.

Dr. Lawrence E. Bozzomo, Superintendent of Schools, commented, "Our students willingly participate in this challenging competition. It is a high distinction that for nine consecutive years, Manhassset students have achieved Intel's semifinalist status. Manhasset students shine in any challenge they take on. Their success is celebrated and supported by a dedicated faculty, mentors, encouraging parents, and the board of education. All of them play an integral part in providing advanced research opportunities for our students."

Manhasset's five seniors were among the 88 Long Island students from 37 schools who were selected as semifinalists. This represents 29 percent of all semifinalists. In total, there were 1562 entrants representing 173 high schools in 31 states, Guam and the District of Columbia. Three hundred semifinalists and their schools will receive matching awards of $1,000. From this group of 300 semifinalists, 40 finalists will be chosen to attend the Science Talent Institute in Washington, DC from March 6-11. During their trip to Washington, the finalists will participate in a final judging process and share in $530,000 in scholarships. The top prize of a $100,000 scholarship will be announced at a black tie banquet and awards ceremony on March 11.