3M and Discovery Education recently announced the state merit winners of the 2024 3M Young Scientist Challenge, the nation’s premier middle school science competition.
Among the top winners list was Shrey Arora, student at West Collierville Middle School, who took home the Tennessee State Merit Award, alongside many other honorable recipients.
Shrey Arora, Collierville High School Student and Tennessee State Merit Winner, 3M Young Scientist Challenge
The 3M Young Scientist Challenge features outstanding innovations from young scientists that demonstrate the power of science to improve the world.
Each year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge recognizes the grand prize winner, 10 finalists, up to 51 state merit winners, and four honorable mentions – nationwide, including Washington D.C. – who have exemplified a passion for using science to solve everyday problems and improve the world around them.
Students in grades 5th through 8th submitted a short video explaining an original idea using science to help solve an everyday problem. Entries were reviewed by a diverse group of judges and evaluated on their creativity, scientific knowledge, and communication skills.
“The projects submitted to the 3M Young Scientist Challenge showcase how science is critical to driving progress and delivering sustainable solutions," says Torie Clarke, EVP & chief public affairs officer at 3M. "All of these students are already making the world a better place through science, and we applaud each for their innovations.”
This year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge offered innovative ways for students to engage in science through new entry topics, including robotics, home improvement, automotive, safety, AR/VR, and climate technology. Shrey's project submission focused on climate tech and included making reusable water bottles more convenient to use for the average person and to encourage people to use less disposable plastic water bottles for the betterment of our planet — titled as The EcoFiller. Each state merit winner receives special recognition on the challenge website, along with a prize pack.
"The 3M Young Scientist Challenge nurtures student curiosity by challenging them to think big and innovate for a better world,” says Amy Nakamoto, executive vice president of Social Impact at Discovery Education. “We are excited to support this effort to demonstrate students’ ability to use science to create a better world.”
In its 17th year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge continues to inspire and challenge middle school students to think creatively and apply the power of STEM to discover real-world solutions. America’s Top Young Scientists have gone on to give TED Talks, file patents, found nonprofits, make the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, and exhibit at the White House Science Fair.
For more information on the 3M Young Scientist Challenge and 2024 competitors, visit YoungScientistLab.com. Learn more about science and technology resources at 3M and Discovery Education.