The USA Biology Olympiad has named Nikhil Buduma, a junior at Bellarmine College Preparatory, a National Finalist. Buduma is one of only 20 students from throughout the country, and one of only seven from California, who qualified as a National Finalist. This is the second consecutive year Buduma has achieved this honor.
“The Bellarmine academic program cultivates an environment where I can always ask questions and where teachers are always open to talking to you about your ideas inside and outside the classroom,“ said Buduma. “If there’s one important lesson I’ve learned throughout my participation in the Biology Olympiad and my academic career at Bellarmine, it’s that true growth doesn’t just come from completing homework assignments or reading the textbook; it comes from a willingness to pursue the questions that nobody may know the answers to.”
Finalists are invited to a residential training program where they learn advanced biological concepts and exacting lab skills at the 10th Annual USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) National Finals at Purdue University, June 3 through 15. The Finalists were selected based on their high scores from the USABO Open and Semifinal Exams.
“Nikhil Buduma always represents Bellarmine with tremendous grace, intellect and generosity. As co-captain of our Science Quiz Bowl team, through his work in BioGenius and Synopsis Science Fairs or in his daily classroom activities; Nikhil is always certain to bring a spirit of determination and courtesy,” said Mr. Patrick Adams, Bellarmine science instructor. “As a second year qualifier to the prestigious USA Biology Olympiad National Team, Nikhil demonstrates again what is possible through hard work, a positive attitude and the ability to collaborate for success. I am deeply impressed by this great achievement and honored to work with such a fine young man.”
“I am so proud of Nikhil for this tremendous accomplishment. To be a National Finalist two years in a row is extraordinary, and reflects well upon Nikhil and the guidance he has been receiving from Mr. Patrick Adams and the other science teachers at Bellarmine,” said Mr. Chris Meyercord, Bellarmine principal.
The Center for Excellence in Education reports that nearly 10.500 students registered nationally for the USABO. Ultimately, the top four Medalists will be named to Team USA 2012 and participate July 8-15 in the International Biology Olympiad in Singapore.