Two sophomores have been named Long Island Young Scholars of Mathematics by the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students at SUNY College at Old Westbury.

Shoreham high schoolers Sonia Joseph and Christian Wesselborg are among 84 students to qualify for the honor after competing against 600 top-ranking students across Long Island. For admission to the program, the students needed to be nominated and meet strict acceptance criteria, including possessing an impressive transcript, supplying a teacher recommendation, completing a rigorous entrance exam and providing a brief statement.  

Based on their selection, the students will now participate in the institute’s mathematics program at SUNY College at Old Westbury. They will spend 60 hours in class over the course of 20 weeks fine-tuning their skills in algebra, geometry and number theory.

Both students, who were excited to have been chosen for the program, are well- rounded scholars with achievements both in and outside of the classroom. Sonia is a member of the school’s Mathletes team, plays trumpet in the band and is a member of the volleyball and softball teams. Christian plays the trombone and participates on the school’s soccer team, as well as the winter and spring track teams.  

“I am looking forward to the classes, as I believe they will help me prepare for my future,” said Sonia. Added Christian, “The classes will give me a greater understanding of mathematics and how to approach problems.”