Hey! My name is Addison. I don't know what career I'll pursue, but I want to change the world. I enjoy rock music, candle collecting, and I will be entering the University of Virginia as a freshman. I am deeply passionate about expanding access to STEM education and pursuing scientific discovery to improve lives. Through my leadership in STEM outreach programs, I have worked to bridge educational gaps for deserving youth and ensure that socioeconomic barriers don’t hold back individuals who can change the world. My experiences have also fueled my passion for biology, particularly in researching neurodegenerative diseases, where I hope to make meaningful contributions. Having overcome personal hardships, I understand the impact of unfair disadvantages, and I am driven to utilizing my education to create opportunities for others. I am resilient, a leader, and committed to both science and advocacy. With your support, I will continue breaking down educational barriers in STEM and advancing scientific research to make a lasting, positive impact on our world.