On May 27, 2025, three talented seniors from BASIS San Antonio Shavano traveled to the Texas State Capitol to present the findings from their Senior Projects.
This showcase, proudly sponsored by State Representative Mark Dorazio, House District 122, highlighted our students’ remarkable research and critical thinking skills. Community leaders, legislators, friends, and family were in attendance to celebrate the amazing achievements of our graduating seniors. Our seniors also had the opportunity to meet Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick.
The BASIS Charter School Senior Project is the pinnacle of our students’ academic journey. During this 10-week research project, students gain real-world experience in their field of study. They partner with universities, corporations, agencies, research facilities, and more to conduct off-campus research centered around a topic of their choosing.
“This showcase was an opportunity to share the amazing work that our seniors do with a broader audience than just the San Antonio community,” says Sean Woytek, Head of School at BASIS San Antonio Shavano. “Our students were able to show others the value and impact of the Senior Project experience.”
Here’s a closer look at the projects our graduating seniors presented at the Texas State Capitol!
Rabia H. – Illuminating the Unknown: Revealing Tumors with Fluorescent Imaging
Rabia’s research project focused on fluorescent imaging, a non-invasive technique used to study minuscule biological processes. Conducted at a lab at the University of Texas at San Antonio, the project involved synthesizing, purifying, and characterizing deep-tissue fluorescent dyes. The goal was to enhance dye performance to improve diagnostic efficiency.
Ella R. – From Blueprint to Orbit: Behind the Engineering of LEO Constellation Satellites
Ella worked with Muon Space’s Mechanical Engineering team in Silicon Valley to study and develop low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Using mathematical principles, multivariable calculus, trigonometry, and CAD software, Ella designed a new method for accurately locating a spacecraft’s center of gravity. She gained hands-on experience in aerospace engineering and will be contributing to the launch of an LEO satellite in June 2025.
David T. – The Rhythms of Life: Exploring Cardiovascular Medicine and Patient Care
David’s project explored diagnostic and treatment methods used to address heart disease. At WellMed Cardiology, David gained first-hand experience working alongside physicians, interacting with patients, interpreting diagnostic tools, and learning about common treatments for cardiovascular conditions. During his presentation, David shared how this one-of-a-kind internship experience has inspired him to pursue a career as a physician.
Congratulations to Rabia, Ella, and David for all of their hard work putting together their Senior Projects! With their innovative ideas and first-hand experiences, these students have the potential to make a lasting difference in healthcare and aerospace fields. We were thrilled to have them represent BASIS at the State Capitol!
BASIS San Antonio Shavano is a proud part of the BASIS Texas Charter Schools network, which has been serving Texas Our tuition-free K–12 schools are located across the San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas-Fort Worth areas. Find a school near you and take a tour to learn how our advanced curriculum prepares students for college success.
