Mission Vista Junior Ranks Top 100 for National STEM Students
On Friday, April 20, talent-seeking company STEM Premier released its national rankings for students in STEM. Listed third in the prestigious compilation of students was Mission Vista’s own Luis Bariuan.
Upon receiving the ranking confirmation from STEM Premier, Bariuan, junior recalls, “I was surprised when they emailed and said that I was a finalist in the Top 100 Competition.” He adds, “This award definitely means a lot since it recognizes the progress I’ve made towards my future in a STEM field.”
STEM Premier is an online agent that assists students of STEM talent in identifying educational and career-oriented pathways. The company also bridges the gap between companies and skilled students who may otherwise lack the resources to make connections.
“We want to bring talent out of the shadows, and level the playing field for all students--no matter who they are or where they live,” claims STEM Premier in their mission statement. The company’s connections include tech giants Verizon, Toyota, Boeing, and Bemis. Its network also catches the attention of prestigious college universities such as Clemson, Penn State, Westminster, and Georgetown, just to name a few.
STEM Premier explains that the Top 100 Rankings, which listed Bariuan, were generated “on an algorithm of more than 30 metrics including test scores, achievements, experiences, and more.” With more than 19,000 competing high schools and 350,000 student applicants, STEM Premier’s recognition of Bariuan is a testament to his many achievements.
“I think that my commitment to STEM made me stand out,” acknowledges Bariuan. The high-achieving junior is involved in various clubs, programs, and associations, all of which embody STEM ideals.
Just some of his many engagements include: various positions in MVHS’s Math Club, the president and founder of Piano Club , secretary of STEM Club, and vice president of the academic team. Furthermore, Bariuan is an active member of the tutoring department, assembles meetings to study for AP Physics, and was a speaker at the annual TEDx event. All this and more makes it plain to see--Bariuan is more than deserving of his placement on STEM Premier’s annual ranking.
“Luis’ dedication and curiosity stand out to me.” says Natalia German, AP Physics teacher. “He doesn’t do anything for the reward. He brings people in who are interested and in need of help.”
Scott Hill, who teaches AP Language and Composition says of Bariuan, that he “never gives up and works hard.” According to Hill, he has “all the standard cliches of the best students.”
When asked about Bariuan’s performance in AP Calculus, teacher Charles Tyson acknowledges, “Luis is always willing to speak up and provide insight that is helpful to his fellow students.” With a course as advanced as Calculus, Tyson values students who share their knowledge. This is characteristic of Luis, who according to Tyson, “can explain any problem.”
In his TEDx speech, Bariuan emphasized the importance of STEAM ( an acronym for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) and encouraged students to tackle its complex subject matters. As a skilled pianist, Bariuan was sure to remind students that arts too are a science of their own.
“I want to become a leader in inspiring and guiding the next generation of STEAM leaders.” says Bariuan.
Ultimately, Bariuan aspires to become an astrophysicist. With aerospace giant, Boeing, as a STEM Premier partner, it’s possible that he will gain a life-changing connection in the industry. It just goes to show--with perseverance like Bariuan’s, not even the sky is the limit.