an intrinsically motivated undergraduate with a passion for scientific inquiry.

It seems as though I teeter between potential majors on a regular basis; a thread common to all potential majors, though, is biology. At the moment, I am considering a career in astrobiology. I am currently conducting astronomical research on an exoplanet of interest. This project has pushed me closer towards a career in astrobiology, as I have gained more confidence in my abilities to study potentially habitable planets. I have also simply always been fascinated by the prospect of life existing elsewhere in the universe. I want to lead research on life’s origins and evolution on this planet and the search for life in space.

It has been difficult to even convince myself of this, so perhaps writing this will help others like me. In an age where it seems every person should have their entire lives planned out by the time they leave high school, it can be overwhelming simply deviating from what is considered the norm. I tell you to tap into these acts of dissent; read that extra chapter, research until well past your bedtime, spend hours outside studying the natural world. Only by exploring your interests will you be able to truly form a path for yourself. You need not have everything figured out by the time you graduate, as there are countless opportunities (many of them resulting from sheer chance) that you will face. Explore now, and explore always.

I am one of six maintainers working at a state park this summer. Our daily tasks require constant communication to ensure we complete our work efficiently and responsibly. We are always able to complete projects together because we delegate roles fairly, set a time frame for task completion, and dedicate ourselves to fulfilling our responsibilities. This team-oriented approach is central to scientific investigation, so I have taken the time to truly appreciate the benefits of this successful collaboration.

I distinctly remember refusing to attend the middle school STEM academy I was accepted to. I could not fathom taking courses heavily focused on mathematics and science instead of the humanities. My mom accepted the lottery invitation anyway, though, and I can now say that I am a grateful graduate of my middle school’s STEM academy. Looking back now, I realize that my current dreams and aspirations have largely formed from my experiences in the academy. My love for scientific research truly blossomed when I was selected as a finalist in a state science fair. I conducted an experiment in which I successfully reduced levels of nitrate present in stormwater runoff using zeolites as a molecular sieve. I endured several challenges during this project, but these obstacles ultimately strengthened my resolve. Presenting my project to actual scientists was my first taste of the STEm network, one that was and still is a central part of my love for science. While I do still make time for reading and writing, I am proud to say that I have struck a balance between science and the humanities. By doing so, I ensure I learn about the world in two distinct manners. As I continue to explore the world and the universe, I will use empirical observation and abstract deliberation as guiding tenets of thought.

UpcyclingBadmintonreadingwriting poetryhikingcyclingplaying Mario Kart

My interests are quite varied, so I have readily enjoyed the majority of my classes. I found my Physics class this past year to be particularly inspiring, though. We spent a unit focusing on astrophysics, learning about circular and parabolic orbits as well as the interaction of gravitational forces between planets. My interest in astronomy was strengthened as a result of this course. I have also found my English classes to be particularly enjoyable, especially as they have allowed me to develop communication skills vital for scientific research.

Above all, time management has contributed greatly to my success in high school. We only have so much time as our biological clocks will afford, so it is imperative that we use it wisely. I have internalized this mantra this past year especially, what with several responsibilities emerging going into my senior year of high school. I have been able to complete assignments on time, conduct independent research, work at my job, and plan for my future by planning on a daily basis. This isn’t to say I am constantly busy, as I do recognize how important it is to give myself breaks as well. Organizing my time more effectively, though, has provided me greater peace of mind as I head into my final year of high school.