Senior Spotlight: Patrick Meng ‘25

Patrick Meng ‘25 has an innovative, creative and sharp mind that has sparked across Shorecrest’s campus. During his time in our community, his exemplary character, critical thinking and top notch academic performance has made him an excellent role model for peers within the school and beyond. 

His journey included a very rigorous course load including seven AP courses and 10 Honors classes. His interest in science and technology began in Middle School when he participated in FIRST LEGO League, and catapulted through his involvement with high school clubs and organizations. 

As President of the High School Robotics Club Patrick led 20 members; curated club policies; managed the budget, design and building of robots; and competed in a wide variety of tournaments. 

With the Shorecrest VEX Robotics Team 6104G, Tempest, he competed in the CREATE US Open Championship in Council Bluffs, Iowa, in March of 2025. The crew won the judged THINK Award out of more than 140 teams. The award recognizes "the most effective and consistent use of coding techniques and programming design solutions to solve the game challenge.”

They also competed in the VEX World Championships. In 2024, Patrick was a part of the first Shorecrest Upper School robotics team to ever compete on the international stage. They returned in 2025 making it to the elimination round in their division, finishing in the top 10% of World Competition. He is a familiar face at St. Pete STEAMfest, where he regularly volunteers, and has dedicated countless hours mentoring younger students as a robot design judge at FIRST LEGO competitions. “Patrick doesn’t just volunteer - he truly loves sharing his expertise and enthusiasm, always eager to support the next generation of robotics students. It means a lot to him to give back to the community that first ignited his passion” said Dr. Anna Baralt, Director of Technology and Robotics Coach.

Not only is he a builder, he has also taken the dive into research. Patrick studied the active safety measures of the Society of Automotive Engineers to better understand level two and three autonomous vehicles. For his STEAM Certificate he devised a robotics kit that utilizes 3D printed and custom plastic parts to reduce the entry cost which is often prohibitive from some schools

His wisdom and sharp wits has also spread into projects like Shorecrest’s Centennial Year celebration. As one of the student archivists, Patrick documented and catalogued a wealth of school history. He is also the founder and president of the Ping Pong Club, a member of the Asian Student Union and Investment Club, and volunteers distributing food to those in need. 

“One of the most respected members in our school community, Shorecrest has been enhanced by Patrick’s leadership and presence,” said Myra Simpson, the Director of College Counseling. 

Patrick will be attending Vanderbilt University in the fall.