Environmental Chemistry & Writing

Paxton Manning

I'm driven to solve environmental problems, and want to ensure people understand why they matter.

About

After having taken advanced chemistry courses in school, I've found a passion for the subject. A love for nature drew me to environmental conservation, and combining that with my chemistry background led me to environmental chemistry. In addition, my love for reading and writing has become very important for conveying ideas.

Outside the classroom, my drive for expression manifested itself on the stage. Taking on leading roles in Pride and Prejudice and an independent production of Little Women with Upstage Theatre taught me how to carry my share of a large, collaborative project. It gave me a level of self-confidence I didn't have before. I found that same growth during a summer at the University of Chicago, where an advanced physics course pushed me academically and personally.

Whether it's leading a chemistry demonstration, restoring a local habitat, or learning a part, I'm happiest when I'm building something alongside people who care about it as much as I do.

Leadership & Involvement

ACS Chemistry Club

President

Run weekly meetings teaching chemistry to like-minded peers through experimental demonstrations.

Science Olympiad

Engineering Captain

Competed at Regionals on the A team, with particular focus on Materials Science and Chemistry Lab events.

Cross Country

4-Year Participant ยท Core Group Leader

Competed at the Varsity level for two seasons; helped lead the core training group for younger runners.

Environmental Volunteering

Grass Roots Ecology

Habitat restoration and land cleanup work supporting local ecological health.

Academics & Projects

Science & Math

  • AP Chemistry
  • Chemistry Honors
  • AP Calculus BC
  • AP Physics 1
  • AP Computer Science A
  • AP Biology upcoming

Writing & Humanities

  • AP Spanish Language
  • Shakespeare in Performance
  • World Classics Honors
  • AP Literature upcoming
  • Drama Literature upcoming

University of Chicago Pre-College Program

Completed an advanced Physics course in Summer 2025 where the academic challenge helped grow my self-confidence.

Theatre & Performance

Lead roles in Pride and Prejudice (school production) and Little Women (Upstage Theatre), managing a substantial part within a large collaborative project.

Awards

Excellence in the Spanish Language Language Award

Contact

Get in touch

I'm happy to discuss chemistry, writing, or anything related.

paxtone.manning@gmail.com