Students from Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy (SASA) are heading to the international stage after earning top honors at the Flint Regional Science & Engineering Fair on March 14.
Three SASA students placed among the top finalists in the high school division, with two earning first and second place overall—securing spots at the prestigious International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF).
Leading the group, Diya Ramakrishnan earned first place, a $500 award, and a four-year scholarship to the University of Michigan-Flint for her project, “Low Cost Breath-Based System to Detect Cancers.” Her work focuses on developing a more accessible method for early cancer detection.
Matlyn Miller earned second place, a $400 award, and a four-year scholarship to UM-Flint for her project, “Evaluating the Effects of Ash Contamination on Diatom Photosynthesis.” Her research explores how environmental factors impact microscopic organisms that play a key role in aquatic ecosystems.
Also representing SASA among the top finalists, Michael Daoud placed fourth, earning a $200 award and a trip to ISEF. His project, “Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Acid Rain, Microplastics, Air Fresheners, and Road Salt on Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems,” examines multiple environmental stressors and their effects on ecosystems.
The Flint Regional Science & Engineering Fair brings together some of the top student researchers in the region, with finalists advancing to compete on the international level.
SASA’s strong showing reflects the school’s focus on rigorous academics, research, and real-world problem solving. As these students prepare to compete at ISEF, they carry forward not only their projects, but the continued growth of student achievement within Saginaw Public Schools.