Saturday, April 29, 2006

Today was the second (and final) day of student research presentations, supporting research in the engineering, physical sciences, and mathematics/computer science categories. Again, presentations commenced promptly at 9:00 and lasted until 4:00, with a lunch break in between (during which I once again played ultimate frisbee). I sat through the mathematics/computer science session; indeed, the humbling session further demonstrated the innumerable accomplishments of my fellow colleagues.

We were free to do as we desired until 7:00. I joined a group of friends composed primarily of Michigan delegates and walked past downtown into Old Town, most notable for its preservation of Native American heritage and traditional shopping centers. Surprisingly, it rained that day and became rather chilly. Afterward, we opted to take a bus back to the hotel and arrived with an extra hour to spare. During this time, my guilt overcame me as I peered upon the studious environment created in the lobby. Consequently, I did spend some time studying for my upcoming AP exams.

Traveling on a city bus on the way back from Old Town. (Photo by Nirmish Singla)

Finally, at 7:00 the JSHS committee required students to sit with their respective delegations, as it was the last supper of the trip. With that respect, there was some drabness in the environment as all of the fun and games would soon come to an end (and as AP exams would soon come to a start). Nonetheless, on a higher note, the awards were presented. 18 awards were presented in all, three for each category. A combination of excitement and surprise for some was mixed with disappointment and acquiescence in others, as each category, each award recipient, was named off one-by-one.

Once the ceremony ended, there was one last event held by the JSHS coordinators: a midnight dance for students. The curfew was abolished that night, and students were encouraged to dance the night away. To be honest, the dance itself was quite lame, due to a poor musical selection. Nevertheless, the festive environment more significantly contributed to my enjoyment. I spent considerable time socializing, saying my last farewells to those whom I would not see again.