An Interview with Michael Norcia: Scholarship Winner

Michael F. Shaughnessy - 12.1.09
Senior Columnist EducationNews.org
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, New Mexico

1)  Michael, I understand that you have just won a major scholarship. First of all, congratulations, and second of all, how did all of this come about?

Thank you for the congratulations, and I found out about the competition through my brother David, who is currently attending Merrimack College.

2) Michael, tell us about your great teachers that have influenced you and helped you.

As far as the academic portion of the competition, I have had so many great teachers at Methuen High School that it would be a crime to single out one over the others. As far as the presentation in part three of the competition, I have to give credit to my marketing and entrepreneurship teacher, Mr. Gearin.  He got me involved in DECA and encouraged me to work extra hard in preparing for it. I went to the Leadership Development Academy in Anaheim, CA for DECA earlier this year. My experience in the DECA program improved my presentation and speaking skills and this is all because of Mr. Gearin  

3) Now tell us about your parents and how they have helped with your studies?

My parents, David and Barbara Norcia, are the best I could ever wish for. They have always been there to support me in my academics and extracurricular activities.

4) What exactly is this STEM competition. Tell us about it?

The STEM competition is a test of knowledge in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Two tests are taken, which narrow the competition down to four finalists.  The finalists move on to the third round in which they are given a problem, which must be figured out using original ideas.  Each finalist then has five minutes to present their solution to the judges.  

5) What books have you read that have helped you prepare for the competition?

There are no books in specific that helped me prepare for this competition. The only preparation I had going into the competition is remembering what my teachers taught me at Methuen High School.

6) What are your favorite subjects in school?

My favorite school subjects are math and business.

7) What are your long term plans?

I plan to attend Merrimack College next year. I want to major in engineering and minor in business.

8) What have I forgotten to ask?

How much of a help winning the STEM competition is: As one of four children, winning this scholarship is going to be a huge help to my family, especially considering three of us will be in college next year and my younger brother is only two years behind me.