An assessment of the North Dakota Science and Engineering Fair and an analysis of the background and careers of its finalists from 1951 to 1985 are contained in this report. The project's objectives were to: (1) compile a complete list of international fair participants (1951-1985); (2) study the subsequent geographic distribution of the participants; (3) examine the benefits associated with science fairs; and (4) evaluate whether participation influenced college and/or career choice. The survey was completed by 213 individuals representing 268 finalists for an 80% response rate. It was found that science fair participants were well educated with 67% having a Bachelors degree or better. The remaining were college students (28%) or high school students (5%). Less than 1% had only a high school education. Most (73.5%) believed that the science fair had some influence on their career choice with 51% of the sample selecting science professions. The value of participating in a science fair was rated high by 96% and all respondents indicated that they would encourage others to participate in science fairs. Generally, the survey results suggested that participation in science fairs may have influenced the finalists' career direction, education, and employment. Appendices supply the survey instrument as well as listings of the participants arranged alphabetically, by town, and chronologically with titles of projects submitted. (ML)