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Westlake's Sarah Marino, A Bee Researcher, Accepted To Cornell

MOUNT PLEASANT, N.Y. -- Sarah Marino, a Westlake High School senior and science research student, was notified that she was accepted for early decision to attend Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and to continue her research on bees.

Sarah Marino, center, and fellow science research students, from left, Meenu Mundackal, Ryan Stasolla, Peter Psaltakis, Steven Brunetto and Adam Catto.

Sarah Marino, center, and fellow science research students, from left, Meenu Mundackal, Ryan Stasolla, Peter Psaltakis, Steven Brunetto and Adam Catto.

Photo Credit: Contributed

Marino began her research through Westlake’s Science Research Program, at one of the top-ranked and highly-regarded entomology departments in the country. A third-year science research student, Marino’s fieldwork with honey bees, which she has been conducting at Stone Barns in Pocantico Hills over the past two summers, has been well received in entomology circles as well as high school science competitions.

Her research on the control of the parasitic varroa mites in bee colonies earned her a third place in the animal science category at the 2014 Westchester Science and Engineering Fair as well as the Acorda Scientific Excellence Award, given to high school students engaged in exceptional scientific research. Marino's science research teacher, Lawrence McIntyre, has nothing but praise for her.

"What's special about Sarah is her energy," he said. "She has such drive. She finds ways to get things done."

"It’s been such a great experience," said Marino. 

Marino attributes the success of her research to beekeeper Dan Carr and the opportunities she had at Stone Barns. She also credits Westlake's science research program for her growth as a student.

"It helped me to write better papers and be a better presenter. And I have more confidence." 

Her advice to future Westlake students regarding science research: "Do it," she said. "It's definitely worth all the work."

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