National STEM Day: Celebrating 75 years of ISEF
Every November 8th, National STEM Day celebrates our collective curiosity, creativity and sense of discovery. It’s a reminder of how science, technology, engineering and math help us to ask questions, solve problems and imagine a better world. In 2025, the celebration feels especially meaningful as we mark the 75th anniversary of the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
From its beginnings in 1950 as the National Science Fair, with 30 students from across the United States competing for prizes totaling $1,000 in scientific equipment, to today’s gathering of nearly 2,000 finalists from over 80 countries, regions and territories, ISEF has become the largest pre-collegiate STEM competition in the world. Over seven and a half decades, thousands of young scientists have earned recognition for work that advances human understanding.
To celebrate National STEM Day and this milestone, we asked attendees at this year’s fair in Columbus, Ohio, to share their favorite ISEF memories, moments that capture what makes this event so special.
Mariano Aranda, Fair Director
San Bernardino, California
“The first year I came to ISEF was in Atlanta, the first fair that was back in person after the pandemic. My favorite memory has been seeing wonderful students from all over the world, and all of their dynamics and excitement, both in terms of their science and in the way people from different cultures come together. It’s special for everyone, including the teachers, coordinators and parents, to be part of the awesome experience here at ISEF.”
Jader Bernardes, Adult-in-Charge
Novo Hamburgo, Brazil
“The first time I came to ISEF was 2014, in Los Angeles. My favorite memories are always seeing the group together — the mixers and the energy the students have to present their work. At ISEF, students have so much passion to share their research. They are happy to show that science can transform the world. So, for me, that’s why I work so hard to bring the students here.”
Patrick Foley, Volunteer
Little Rock, Arkansas
“I first came to ISEF in 2008, and every year has been awesome. What really sticks out are all the kids that come here with their amazing research. I remember one year when one of my students won an award. His plan was to slide across the stage on his knees — not very advisable, mind you. He ran up on stage and tried to do it, but he tripped, and he tumbled onto the stage, but he still managed to stick the landing. He was so excited. Honestly, these kids are excited every step of the way, and it fills me with the same kind of excitement.”
Quinn Hughes, Finalist
Mound, Minnesota
“My first time at ISEF was in 2023 in Atlanta. I think that it’s the people who really make or break the experience. My favorite memory is meeting new friends and keeping those connections, then coming back and seeing everyone here every year.”
Arushi Nath, Finalist
Toronto, Canada
“My favorite memory from ISEF last year was going to Universal Studios. But also, simply meeting people from all around the world, each tackling issues that they’re really passionate about in their own communities. Every project is so high level and honestly, so cool.”
Ivan Rivera Torres, Alum and Judge
Troy, New York
“My first time at ISEF was a long time ago, back in 1988. I have so many good memories. Most of all, I have made many good friends that I’m still in contact with. Some of these friends were other finalists, that I met again later, sometimes by coincidence, in activities or internships. It’s always fun to see ISEF alumni out in the world, even when it’s a surprise.”
Yamijeth Shimojyo, Adult-in-Charge
Riverside, California
“My first year at ISEF was in 2011. Every year I love it when the finalists finish presenting to the judges. They all walk out of the presentation hall, and all the adults wrap around them and cheer them on, and everyone is so excited.”
Grace Yacobe, Finalist
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“This is my fourth year at ISEF. One of my best memories is winning my medal in Translational Medical Science at ISEF in Dallas in 2023. We were backstage taking a group photo and one person said, ‘Guys, we’re actually smart now!’ I think that was a pinnacle for me. It takes a lot of people to get here. It takes a lot of time to get here. To win an award here is something phenomenal, I’m so grateful for the opportunity.”
