Ashrita Panigrahi

Freshman | Student Researcher | Speedcuber | Competitive STEM & Robotics

About Me

I am a high school freshman driven by a deep curiosity for STEM, neuroscience, computer science, and competitive problem-solving. Whether analyzing complex neural pathways for publication, designing and programming competitive robots, training on the track, or competing in speedcubing events, I thrive in fast-paced environments that demand continuous learning and critical thinking.

Academic Focus & Honors

My academic journey has been defined by high-level problem-solving and rigorous extension programs. Enrolled continuously in the Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) and the Russian School of Math (RSM) since second grade, I have earned multiple "Best in Math" academic awards and competed in MathCounts during middle school. Additionally, I qualified for the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) program based on my 7th-grade SAT scores, going on to complete advanced coursework and earn an exceptional six-paragraph letter of recommendation. I have also completed three summer enrichment courses through the University of Washington, placed in top spots for school spelling bees, and participated in Northshore Speaks for three years to build strong public speaking skills.

Research & Technical Projects

In the research realm, I am currently the primary author of a neuroscience research paper undergoing Round 2 of editorial review with the International Youth Neuroscience Association (IYNA) journal, following valuable initial feedback from Nessa Hills Neuroscience. On the engineering side, I competed as a key member of all-girls VEX Robotics Team 2205F. Together, we qualified for the State Championships and earned 2nd place overall in interview evaluations for World Championship qualification during 7th grade. As a coder, I am proficient across multiple languages including Python, Java, C++, HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and SQL.

Athletics, Extracurriculars & Service

Beyond academics, I maintain a highly active lifestyle as a track and field student-athlete and a competitive speedcuber, having mastered solving 14 different puzzle variants since first grade. My athletic background also includes earning a Black Belt in Taekwondo with competition medals, as well as experience in competitive swimming and classical and contemporary dance performances. Giving back to my community is equally important to me, and I dedicate half of every Sunday morning to volunteering with local organizations to support unhoused individuals.