It’s not every day that you meet a high school student who has successfully cultivated a genetically unique species of carnivorous plant!
For senior Julian Shepersky, horticulture is not merely a hobby -- it is a passion he has embraced with exuberance during his time at Albany High School, merging creativity with scientific inquiry.
His most recent success is that area is crossing two species to create a genetically unique carnivorous plant, which he has submitted to the International Carnivorous Plant Society and the International Cultivar Registrar for official recognition and publication.
Shepersky's interest in plants was piqued during the pandemic, when he began exploring the art of bonsai trees. As he entered Albany High, he took a variety of courses that allowed him to further explore his interests in horticulture and the arts.
Shepersky's studies paid off in April 2024, when he won a prestigious award at the Mid-Atlantic Bonsai Society Annual Spring Festival. On top of that, he was the youngest participant ever to exhibit at the event!
Shepersky will graduate in June with a wealth of educational and extracurricular experiences. He will attend the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, focusing on plant science and horticulture, while continuing his exploration of art.
“I think the really wonderful thing about Albany High is that there are so many people who have contributed so well to all of my interests," he said. "I’ve learned so much and gained so much passion for learning and academics and all the things I want to study in the future.”
