Pair of North Hills Students Selected As Finalists For National Chemistry Olympiad

Two students were among the 11 finalists to represent the Pittsburgh section of the American Chemical Society in the United States National Olympiad.  

Senior Joseph Plazek and junior Matt Pack competed with more than 170 students from 24 schools for prizes, scholarships and the opportunity to compete in the National Olympiad.

To qualify, both students participated in the 2012 Secondary School Chemistry Contest sponsored by the Pittsburgh section of the American Chemical Society on March 21, 2012, at the University of Pittsburgh. 

Joseph completed AP Chemistry during his junior year – earning a 5 on the AP exam – and is currently taking AP Physics (C).  In the fall, he will continue his education at Case Western Reserve University majoring in chemical engineering.  

Matthew is currently enrolled in AP Chemistry, as well as AP Physics (B).  Previously, Matthew completed CHS Chemistry – earning an A and college credit from the University of Pittsburgh.  

Matthew and Joseph were recognized for their outstanding achievement at the Society for Analytical Chemists and the Pittsburgh Section of the ACS Annual Awards Dinner on May 16, 2012, at the University Ballroom at Duquesne University.

The Annual Secondary School Chemistry Contest, which began in 1945, recognizes outstanding achievement by students and their teachers as well as encourages student interest in chemistry. To compete, students complete an exam that assesses their knowledge of descriptive chemistry and chemical principles.

- Submitted by Tina Vojtko on behalf of the North Hills School District. Have news you'd like to share with Patch readers? Email information and photos to Richard Cook at richinpgh@gmail.com.

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