A 15-year-old student of Buchanan High School, CA, earned a fourth-place finish and a $5,000 college scholarship at the National History Day competition in Baltimore earlier this month.

Robyn Young, who will begin her sophomore year at Buchanan in August, placed fourth out of nearly 80 high school students in the senior individual performance category June 12-16.

Her presentation on the Armenian Genocide – "Debating the Armenian Question: Diplomatic Successes, Failures and Consequences" – was chosen as the Outstanding Entry on an International Theme, earning her the scholarship sponsored by the History Channel.

Robyn's 10-minute presentation in front of three judges and an audience – followed by judges' questions. This was Robyn's first trip to the National History Day contest after advancing from the Fresno County competition to the state finals five of the past six years.

In addition to receiving preparation help from Buchanan High teachers, Robyn exchanged letters with former U.S. Sen. Robert Dole, a supporter of resolutions to recognize the Armenian Genocide, to research her topic, Fresno Bee reported.