Four Long Island high school students were chosen as the 2014 Intel Science Talent Search finalists in a nationwide competition.
The Intel Science Talent Search encourages young people to think critically, solve problems and understand scientific issues that affect people's lives.
Preeti Kakani and Kaitlyn Shin were chosen from Jericho High School. Aron Coraor, from Huntington High School and John Clarke, a student at Regis High School in Manhattan, are also finalists.
"It's like the ultimate dream for a high school researcher, and to realize that I'm living that dream is an unspeakable honor," Shin told News 12.
This year's finalists come from 33 schools in 14 states.
For an extended interview with the finalists, watch the clip to the left or click News 12 Extra on Optimum TV channel 612.