Anastasia Shevelenko

Student Leader | STEM & Community Service | National-Level Rhythmic Gymnast

About Me

I'm a student passionate about combining science, leadership, and community impact. Whether I'm analyzing DNA sequences in a university lab, tutoring my peers for the SAT, or organizing a fundraiser for a cause I care about, I love finding ways to make a difference through both my mind and my actions.

Outside of academics, I've spent 13 years training in rhythmic gymnastics at the national level, and I bring that same discipline and dedication into everything I do — from my volunteer work to my studies in STEM.

STEM & Research

Rutgers Waksman Institute Summer Experience

I spent 10 immersive days analyzing unknown DNA sequences under the guidance of Rutgers faculty.

I conducted molecular biology lab procedures to purify and analyze DNA fragments, then used professional bioinformatic tools to interpret gene sequences and prepare my findings for submission to GenBank, the international DNA sequence repository.

Veterinary Camp at Clemson University

I spent a week at a hands-on veterinary camp, attending lectures and clinical sessions covering the anatomy and medical care of cows, horses, pigs, sheep, and alligators. I observed live spay/neuter procedures and dog training at a small-animal clinic, checked sheep for eye disease, performed a pig dissection, and toured university research labs. The program also covered comparative physiology, veterinary and medical ethics, and parasite identification and management.

College Board SAT Tutor

I was recruited by College Board to provide group SAT tutoring through my school's program. After being trained and certified, I learned and implemented an official curriculum, volunteering 6+ hours with each group I taught.

Shadowing in Urology (NYU-affiliated)

I shadowed a urologist for a full day, observing patient care, surgeries, and procedures firsthand. I even performed supervised medical procedures, including reagent-based urine analysis to identify indicators of urinary tract infections.

Athletics

Coach's Assistant

I've also served as a coach's assistant in my gymnastics program, helping guide and support younger athletes during training.

Rhythmic Gymnastics — National Level

For 13 years, I've competed in rhythmic gymnastics with Isadora by Matchpoint, qualifying for American Championships (national rank 57) and Elite Qualifier Level in both 2025 and 2026, as well as an international competition (Tamarra Cup) in 2026.

I've earned multiple podium finishes at state and regional championships, including 1st place all-around, hoop, and ball at the 2024 New Jersey State Championship, and top finishes at the Harlem Gymnastics Invitational, NYC Championships, and MA Friendship Cup.

Community Leadership

National Honor Society, Treasurer

I raised over $500 for breast cancer awareness by organizing a pink-out volleyball game, a bake sale, and school-wide fundraising events, donating all proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. I also helped launch a peer-tutoring service to meet the growing demand for STEM support among my classmates, recruited volunteers for our school's annual play, and helped organize a food drive supporting Fourth Ave Presbyterian Church's food pantry.

Math & Spanish National Honor Societies

I'm a member of both the Math and Spanish National Honor Societies, and I volunteer as a peer tutor during lunch periods to support classmates in these subjects.

Community Service Club, Treasurer

I've led fundraising and donation efforts across many causes close to my heart — from making fleece blankets for Project Linus, to running a coat drive for New York Cares, to supporting local animal welfare organizations by raising funds for pet supplies through a Chewy wish list. I also organized a Valentine's card-making event for local seniors, which was recognized by NYS Senator Andrew S. Gounardes, helped organize a food drive for Reaching Out Community Services, and raised funds supporting Bay Ridge Cares. I also placed 3rd in my school's Tiger Trot fundraising run two years in a row.

Student Ambassador & Tour Guide

I've led freshman orientation groups and Open House tours throughout the year, welcoming new students and prospective families, answering their questions, and sharing my own experiences at school.

Arts & Music

I've played piano for 13 years, performing works by Tchaikovsky, Chopin, Bach, Mozart, Mendelssohn, and Sia in recitals twice a year.

Piano

Music Consultant & Content Creator

I work as a music consultant for rhythmic gymnastics competitors, editing and arranging music into routine-ready sequences. I also run a YouTube channel with 8,000+ subscribers.