Can I still join this year's team even though the application deadline has passed?
We will still accept team members on a space-available basis. Keep in mind that for regional and state competitions, there is a strict 15 member limit, and priority will be given to team members who have already been preparing for events. If you are interested in joining the team, please stop by room 119 and talk to Ms. Ransom, or click on the "Contact" tab above to send us a message.
Is there a big time commitment to participate in Science Olympiad?
Yes and no. We will meet as a team periodically, but you will need to study for your events and/or build your project prior to the invitational and regional competitions. You might spend 1-3 hours for this club per week for the few weeks leading up to a competition, but at other times the time commitment will be much less. Our competitive season ends in March or April, depending on whether or not we go to state, so this will not conflict with AP Exams or EOC testing.
I need to join a science-related club to meet requirements for an Academy or other program. Does this count?
YES! However, please be aware that you will have to prepare for your events, even if it's not in-school. It's not a huge commitment but you need to be available for the regional competition (and ideally the invitationals as well). Do not expect to just show up on the day of the competition and do well without having prepared first!
How many people can compete?
Each official Science Olympiad team has 15 people (with a maximum of 7 seniors). This is strictly enforced at regional and state tournaments but most invitational tournaments will allow a larger team. Due to scheduling conflicts, we always need backups so don't be afraid to come to a meeting and check us out if you're unsure about making the team. We can rotate people for the different invitational tournaments so that all members get a chance to compete during the season.
How do you choose who is on the team?
Almost anyone with an interest in joining can be on the team in some capacity, either as an alternate, an official team member, or just a club member that attends practice sessions for fun. Since we are limited to taking only 15 students to the regional/state tournament, we will use a combination of seniority, attendance, and placement in individual events to determine the 15 top performers.
Is it fun???
YES! By participating in this activity you will get to become an expert in a subject of interest. You will get to experience how teachers and even college professors approach the subject by attending their different events. You get to do fun science activities with your friends. You get the chance to win medals in your individual events. A truly awesome experience for anyone interested in science!