Student Spotlight: Ossining's National Merit Semifinalist Daniel Scanteianu

Ossining High School senior Daniel Scanteianu, 17, has had a lot of success in his high school career so far – he was just named the only National Merit Semifinalist this year in Ossining – but he attributes this honor to everyone around him.

Scanteianu is all humility and graciousness when he lists his influences and mentors. 

“My parents were definitely instrumental (they have been pushing me to be better than I knew I could be since an early age), and they understood exactly what needed to be done in order to help me succeed," he said. 

"Mr. Piccirillo and Ms. Holmes of the Science Research program have also been instrumental in helping me learn how to work and study independently, allowing me to have the skills I needed to do well on the PSAT. Although they are too many to name, all of my math and science teachers have helped me develop quite a lot (and I can honestly say I've never had a bad one). As far as writing and English, I can attribute a lot of my knowledge to Mr. Schoenbart (9th and 10th grade English) and Ms. Wile (A.P. World) who taught me how to write better academic essays.”

His favorite subjects and interests are as wide ranging as his gratitude.

Scanterianu's favorite classes: Science Research, AP Calculus BC, Computer Science, Jazz Band(guitar)/Wind Ensemble(trumpet), and SUNY Physics which he took last year. 

In extracurriculars: he is co-founder of the Computer Science club and French clubs, a founding member of the Math Circle, and the lead programmer for the Engineering Club/Robotics Club. 

And more: He's on varsity cross country, and serves as captain of varsity swim team and spring track.

The future: “I hope to major in Computer science in college, although I do not yet know which college I will go to. I hope to pursue a career as a programmer for a robotics firm.” 

Congratulations, Daniel!