NSF INCLUDES alumna represents Guam at largest pre-college STEM fair in the world

NSF INCLUDES Summer Program alumna Angel Payumo represented the island at the world’s largest pre-college STEM competition, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2023 in Dallas, Texas this Spring.

Payumo placed second at the Island Wide Science Fair held earlier this year, winning the opportunity to represent the island at ISEF.

Along with first place finisher Andrew Kang, who also represented Guam at the ISEF, Payumo competed against students from Guam elementary, middle and high schools to win the honor.

Payumo completed the NSF INCLUDES SEAS Islands Alliance Guam Hub’s High School Summer Internship program in 2022.

“Angel’s remarkable journey at the International Science and Engineering Fair, where she shared her passion for research with over 1500 individuals, showcases the potential for forging countless connections and creating unforgettable memories,” said NSF INCLUDES SEAS Islands Alliance Guam Hub representative Jessica Fernandez.

The fair included several days of activities for all the student entrants including static display judging, in-person presentations of their projects to colleges and sponsors, and official judging.  The final days of the event featured special awards and overall Finalist Award Ceremonies.

Payumo’s project was conducted at the University of Guam Marine Lab under the guidance of her mentor Bastian Bentlage Ph.D.

Her project aimed to understand the role of coral pigmentation in response to coral bleaching in reef’s surround Guam.

According to Fernandez, students having the chance to represent themselves and our island at fairs such as ISEF is an important experience. 

“Empowering students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to embrace diverse opportunities and explore both National and International settings is paramount,” said Fernandez.