I didn’t choose mechanical engineering because I was good at math. I chose it because I was good at noticing what was missing, in classrooms, in teams, in the way technical spaces made people feel like outsiders. I didn’t grow up around engineers. I grew up around people who fixed things without manuals, who made do with what they had, and who never waited for permission. That’s where I learned to build, not just machines, but momentum. At UC Berkeley, I’ve had to navigate engineering as a minority woman in a space that wasn’t designed with me in mind. I’ve been the only woman in the room. I’ve had my ideas overlooked until someone else repeated them. I’ve had to learn how to speak up without apologizing for taking up space. But I stayed. Not because it was easy, but because I knew I could make it easier for someone else. My education in STEAM has been shaped by hands-on work and real-world impact. I’ve modeled complex aerospace components in SolidWorks and run FEA simulations to validate stress tolerances. I’ve supported vehicle engineering teams, tracked deliverables, and resolved prototype bottlenecks. I’ve participated in hackathons where I built working prototypes under pressure, and I’ve created STEM content that reflects what engineering actually feels like, messy, iterative, and deeply human. But beyond the technical skills, what drives me is the chance to make engineering more inclusive. I care about empowering women in technical spaces, not just through representation, but through visibility and voice. I’ve reached out to brands that align with that mission, created content that’s honest and accessible, and built teams that prioritize collaboration over competition. I don’t want to be the exception. I want to be the reason someone else feels like they can start. This scholarship would help me continue that work. It’s not just about tuition, it’s about time, access, and the ability to say yes to opportunities that move the needle. With this support, I can take on more hands-on projects, invest in outreach efforts, and keep building systems that work for people who’ve been told they don’t belong in technical spaces. Kayla Nicole Monk’s story resonates deeply with me. She had a vision and set her mind to achieving it, even when the odds weren’t in her favor. That kind of ambition, grounded in service, not ego, is exactly what I strive for. I want to build things that last, not just physically, but emotionally. Things that make people feel capable, curious, and seen. I’m not chasing prestige. I’m chasing possibility. And I’m building it one prototype, one conversation, one act of persistence at a time.

In the last decade, I visited my family in India once -- just once. Where I used to watch hindi sitcoms and poems, I found myself struggling to communicate. My grandpa could not understand my awkwardly disjointed sentences, and I felt guilty wondering if it was because of my lack of language skills or because his hearing had deteriorated in the years I had not visited. In elementary school, my favorite dish was baingan bharta (eggplant curry), but this was a secret reserved for home only. At school, I morphed into a mirror image of my white peers, taking bites of our sandwiches. It never occurred to me that while theirs were made with their mother's love, mine was made with my mother's hurt from my scorn of her traditional cooking. But she too -- my Indian mother -- possessed her own internalized ideals. When she made her usual remarks about my "dark skin” I inherited from my father, I could not help but notice a trace of condescension, as if she could somehow distance herself from me with her fair skin. Last year, I joined my school's Desi Student Association club, which unearthed a part of my identity that I had shut away. In this club, I began to participate in bollywood-style fusion dance at school events. In the process of learning more about my culture, I realized that there still is a lot of internalized racism and misogyny in India itself. The statement ‘Fair skin equals beauty’ has been embedded in the mass Indian-psyche for a very long time. Hence, now as an officer, I have been holding discussions about intersectionality and racism and stereotypes in media representation. I realized that my "background" does not only exist in the vacuum of my past -- but it is also an embodiment of who I am today and who I will always be. In the future, not only am I excited to share my culture, but I am also excited to indulge in knowledge as well as teach back knowledge whether that be through holding seminar discussions or teaching others to solve an integration problem. To me, teaching has been one of my most enriching experiences as I am constantly training myself to understand how my words will make the most effective impact on my students. From elementary children to my students older than me, learning is not linear; thus, I am perpetually practicing the art of patience and effective communication. Being a teacher permeates almost every aspect of my life. From teaching public speaking classes at Leaders Speak, to calculus at my school’s library afterschool, to teaching math to students at a local community college the Math Learning Center at American River College, or even my mom about the ways of western baking, I strive to share what I can when I can, and I wish to continue this practice for the rest of my life. Throughout my time as a tutor, I have come to learn that the exchange of knowledge is anything but an answer to a question. When one of my teaching methods is ineffective, I am reinforced with the principle that persistence is key to my success in enforcing another’s education; thus, I find another explanation. I am regularly revisiting old concepts with new perspectives, allowing me to deepen my understanding of previous knowledge. Teaching is not static, one-sided flow of information but an opportunity to understand different perspectives, build relationships, and embrace the unique differences to which our brains translate the world. In the future, I will continue teaching in and outside the classroom.

1. Mechanical Engineering 2. I was first introduced to the renewable energy sector through dinner conversations with my parents and the show “Down to Earth'' a documentary on Netflix. Over meals, my family and I discussed the hydrogen economy, particularly green hydrogen. My dad would always place a spotlight on the fact that the hydrogen economy is a great example of something that seemed so out of reach just 10 years ago but is now being demonstrated in an early-stage form to power homes and cars in Japan. And when I began to ask to learn more about what they discussed, I started to read articles on renewable energies through which a passion for sustainable energy systems was born. In the future, I hope to find answers–and more questions–to further my sustainable energy journey. 3. In my junior year, I became captain of my high school’s Hydrogen Car Team Club. With no experience, I single-handedly built a hydrogen car during winter break, dedicating most days to its construction. This solo project, my largest to date, taught me skills like soldering and understanding hydrogen fuel cell mechanics. The car’s successful operation and the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source, was the one that truly showed me how useful sustainable energy could be to humanity. The ability to safely and economically scale up hydrogen fuel cells will lead to a significantly decreased reliance on fossil fuels. If we could use this mode of energy in aviation or even industry sectors, this could truly help ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for all. This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern at the UC Davis - Advanced Composites Research Engineering & Science (ACRES). Laboratory. I aided in the manufacturing, testing, and planning of a wind turbine blade utilizing bamboo and mycelium composites by hands-on creating the airfoils along with using softwares such as computer-aiding designing and 3-D printing. Working alongside my lab peers and under the guidance of Professor La Saponara, I have been able to learn and explore the fascinating world of sustainable and biodegradable composites, uncovering their vast potential and applications. The hands-on nature of the experience, coupled with collaboration with knowledgeable peers and a supportive mentor, cemented my interest in STEM and inspired me to pursue further opportunities in this field. As a member of the Local Control and Accountability Plan advisory committee, I’ve been immersed in a diverse community striving to enhance the academic performance of English learners in the San Juan Unified School District. With a significant portion of the student body coming from low-income backgrounds, including English learners and foster youth, my seven-year journey as a student here has deepened my understanding of the educational disparities caused by socioeconomic factors. Through facilitating focus groups, I’ve helped foster an inclusive environment for sharing personal insights, which has been enriched by contributions from parents, students, and district analysts. This year, I’ve initiated the FIRST LEGO League Explore program, an after-school STEM initiative for elementary students in local middle schools, aimed at bridging the educational gap by engaging them in engineering principles, coding, and problem-solving. In establishing this initiative, I hope to create a more equitable and educational landscape across the San Juan Unified School District. 4. I plan to attend college and develop a strong background in mechanical engineering that is needed to research renewable energy. Through college, I want to research in a lab that focuses on battery research and manufacturing capabilities to develop creative solutions to complex issues. I was accepted into University of California Berkeley and will commit there; at UC Berkeley, I can take all courses necessary to develop a strong engineering background and knowledge to solve some of these complex environmental problems. 5. Under the guidance of Professor Valeria Saponara, I have developed a profound understanding of environmental stewardship. Professor Valeria Saponara would recommend me for this scholarship due to my demonstrated dedication to sustainability and my academic curiosity. Through her mentorship, I have engaged deeply with the principles of sustainable energy and have shown a keen interest in applying these concepts in practical ways. My work under her tutelage reflects my commitment to finding efficient and sustainable solutions to energy challenges. Professor Saponara has observed my passion for environmental issues and my ability to grasp complex concepts related to clean energy. She knows that I am not only dedicated but also have the work ethic and perseverance required to achieve high goals. My involvement in various academic projects and my proactive approach to learning about sustainable energy systems have further solidified her belief in my potential.

All my life I’ve been very interested in how things work - in why these small pieces of intricate wires and metal can store voices or in how people can manage to get massive metal birds to soar without wings and even how complex systems can be broken down into very simple parts. And in pursuit of figuring out why everything can do what it does, I’ve found my way to one field: mechanical engineering. I was first introduced to the subject through dinner conversations with my parents and the show “Down to Earth'' a documentary on Netflix. Over meals, my family and I discussed the hydrogen economy, particularly green hydrogen. My dad would always place a spotlight on the fact that the hydrogen economy is a great example of something that seemed so out of reach just 10 years ago, but is now being demonstrated in an early stage form to power homes and cars in Japan. And when I began to learn more about what they discussed, I started to read articles and watch documentaries on renewable energies, one of my favorites being an article about Namibia's $10B Green Hydrogen Project. Through this, a passion for sustainable energy systems was born. I’ve engaged in my interests surrounding materials and science engineering through studying the intersection between efficient energy systems and technology. During the summer, interning at UC Davis ACRES Laboratory, I aided in the manufacturing, testing, and planning of a wind turbine blade utilizing bamboo and mycelium composites by hands-on creating the airfoils along with using softwares such as computer-aiding designing and 3-D printing. Engaging in this project deepened my understanding of the potential of sustainable materials in the renewable energy sector. Through my position of captain for my school’s Hydrogen Car team, not only was I able to help design the team’s hydrogen fueled cell car but I was able to follow my passion of working with and learning about energy storage systems. With every opportunity I seize or documentary I watch, my hunger to learn more about this intersection only grows stronger. In the next decade, I envision myself as a prominent figure in the renewable energy industry, actively contributing to the advancement of sustainable technologies. My ultimate goal is to become a renowned researcher and innovator in the field of green hydrogen, a technology that has always ignited my passion. I foresee myself playing a pivotal role in the development of cutting-edge solutions to harness and utilize green hydrogen as a clean and efficient energy source. To embark on this journey towards my dream career, I will begin by pursuing relevant academic pursuits in college. I intend to major in a field that aligns with my aspirations, such as mechanical engineering or materials and science engineering, in order to establish a solid foundation of knowledge. As a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, I will actively seek out mentorship and support networks to navigate any potential challenges and further empower myself. In the long term, my aspirations extend beyond personal achievements. I aim to become a guiding light for other women who aspire to make a difference in the field of technology. My dream career is not solely focused on advancing green hydrogen technology, but also on shattering barriers, contributing to diversity in the industry, and inspiring the next generation of women in renewable energy.

At our first Hydrogen Car Race of the year, we struck disaster 45 minutes in. I took my role, ready to perform the pit stop fuel change, but one of my other teammates apparently had a different idea. By the time the person in charge of looking for the low power light on the hydrogen cell signaled for a pit stop, it turns out the car had been running on battery and had nearly drained that out. Thus, our car wasn’t able to start as all the power in the backup battery was used and so even after switching the hydrogen fuel sticks, there wasn't even enough power to start the car. I was upset, after all, I hadn’t made any mistakes. But it was when our next race came around that I had my share of mistakes. When I went to replace the hydrogen fuel stick during the pit stop, it seemed to not connect to the car properly under the stress of time, thus losing racing time and leaking hydrogen gas. I expected my teammates to be angry, but instead they were supportive and empathetic, knowing that I had tried my best. I realized I was looking at it backwards. To be in a team, I had to quit placing blame on everyone else. Together, we became something that people sought for. In the last decade, I visited my family in India once -- just once. Where I used to watch hindi sitcoms and poems, I found myself struggling to communicate. My grandpa couldn't understand my awkwardly disjointed sentences, and I felt guilty wondering if it was because of my lack of language skills or because his hearing had deteriorated in the years I hadn’t visited. In elementary school, my favorite dish was baingan bharta (eggplant curry), but this was a secret reserved for home only. At school, I morphed into a mirror image of my white peers, taking bites of our sandwiches. It never occurred to me that while theirs were made with their mother's love, mine was made with my mother's hurt from my scorn of her traditional cooking. But she too -- my Indian mother -- possessed her own internalized ideals. When she made her usual remarks about my "dark skin” I inherited from my father, I couldn't help but notice a trace of condescension, as if she could somehow distance herself from me with her fair skin. Last year, I joined my school's Desi Student Association club, which unearthed a part of my identity that I had shut away. In this club, I began to participate in bollywood-style fusion dance at school events. In the process of learning more about my culture, I realized that there still is a lot of internalized racism and misogyny in India itself. The statement ‘Fair skin equals beauty’ has been embedded in the mass Indian-psyche for a very long time. Hence, now as an officer, I’ve been holding discussions about intersectionality and racism and stereotypes in media representation. I realized that my "background" doesn't only exist in the vacuum of my past -- it's an embodiment of who I am today and who I'll always be.

One term that is fundamental to human existence and has many connotations, applications, and implications is empowerment. It's an idea that goes beyond simple agency or power; it represents a deep understanding of one's inherent value, capacity, and capacity to bring about change—both in oneself and in the larger world. In my view, the foundation of individual development, societal advancement, and group freedom is empowerment. Fundamentally, empowerment means being freed from the chains of oppression, whether they are obvious or subtle. It is about tearing down the obstacles that prevent people from exercising their fundamental rights and reaching their full potential, whether they be cultural, systemic, or psychological. It means speaking up for justice and equality, questioning established power structures, and challenging the status quo. Gaining power is only one aspect of empowerment; the other is using it for the benefit of society as a whole. It's about realizing that power is a force that can be increased via group effort and solidarity rather than a limited resource to be hoarded. Since different forms of privilege and oppression are interconnected, true empowerment is inclusive and intersectional. Empowerment has served as both a transformative force and a guiding principle in my own life. It has given me the confidence to accept who I am, question accepted social mores, and develop a feeling of agency and independence. It has given me the bravery to follow my interests in life, whether they are artistic, intellectual, or professional, and to stand up for causes that align with my moral principles. My sense of empowerment affects not just how I see myself but also how I interact with others and the outside world. It motivates me to build deep relationships, engage in active listening, and elevate the voices of people whose viewpoints have traditionally been marginalized or silenced. It makes me realize how crucial solidarity, humility, and empathy are to creating inclusive communities and bringing about constructive change. Furthermore, empowerment influences how I approach activism and leadership. It teaches me to be a genuine and honest leader, to encourage people, and to establish environments where everyone feels appreciated and able to make a contribution. It forces me to oppose oppressive structures and to fight for laws and procedures that advance sustainability, justice, and equity. It is imperative to acknowledge, though, that empowerment is neither a one-size-fits-all answer nor is it available to everyone. Discrimination, systemic barriers, and structural inequality frequently prevent people from reaching their full potential and exercising their agency. Therefore, addressing the underlying causes of injustice and providing opportunities for marginalized communities to prosper are necessary for true empowerment. To sum up, empowerment is a transformative force that enables people to acknowledge their own value, assert their agency, and bring about constructive change in the world. It is an ongoing process of empowerment and liberation for oneself as well as others; it is a journey of self-discovery, resiliency, and solidarity. I'm dedicated to fostering my own empowerment as I proceed on my journey and striving for a more fair, inclusive, and just society for all.

Throughout high school, I've actively explored my passion for engineering through various avenues such as competitions, college courses, mentorship from professors, and online videos and through this exploration, I discovered a keen interest in the intersection of engineering in energy science and technology. In 10th grade, while researching for my climate change blog that I made from scratch, I recognized that energy lay at the heart of climate solutions. This realization sparked my interest in energy and the critical role it plays in mitigating environmental damage caused by non-renewable energy sources. In 11th grade, my passion for efficient energy systems led me to join my school's Hydrogen Car team, where I now serve as the captain. This experience was a significant undertaking as I was responsible for constructing a hydrogen-fueled cell car from scratch. Learning to solder electronic components, understanding the inner workings of a hydrogen fuel cell, and building the car entirely on my own broadened my skill set. I soon realized my passion for efficient energy systems and renewable energy and so with a friend, I competed in the SMUD Youth Energy Summit contest relating to Zero-Carbon Future. For our project, we set up recycling and compost bins in our school cafeteria for paper trays and ran an educational Instagram campaign. This past summer, I had an opportunity at UC Davis where I was able to contribute to the development of wind turbine blades utilizing sustainable composites by aiding in using softwares including computer-aiding, designing to create airfoils and 3-D printing. I began to understand the importance and power of technology, which broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the crucial role technology plays in our pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. I also participated in the selective Civics Unplugged program, which challenged me to think critically about solving complex global issues through emerging technology and new schools of thought. Furthermore, my internship with a team of graduate students at Johns Hopkins Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Design involved annotating cancer cell clusters in images to train machine learning algorithms for breast cancer detection in low-resource countries. This experience highlighted the power of technology in global health to me. In addition, under the mentorship of Dr. Hiron and Dr. Raja, at the Center for Ocean-Atmospheric Prediction Studies, I learned how to further harness technology. Under their tutelage, I have been able to learn and perform mathematical, Matlab data analysis, and Matlab coding tasks for development of dynamics of internal waves in the ocean such as kinetic energy and sea surface height. We are surrounded by and interact with energy every day and thus energy is an important concept across all fields of engineering. I believe that the transition from solar to wind, tidal, energy storage, and transmission is a monumental step in shaping our future. College is the ideal environment to nurture my curiosity and collaborate with others who share my vision and passion of using energy science and technology to create a better world.

In the last decade, I visited my family in India once–just once. Where I used to watch hindi sitcoms and poems, I found myself struggling to communicate. My grandpa couldn't understand my awkwardly disjointed sentences, and I felt guilty wondering if it was because of my lack of language skills or because his hearing had deteriorated in the years I hadn’t visited. In elementary school, my favorite dish was baingan bharta (eggplant curry), but this was a secret reserved for home only. At school, I morphed into a mirror image of my white peers, taking bites of our sandwiches. It never occurred to me that while theirs were made with their mother's love, mine was made with my mother's hurt from my scorn of her traditional cooking. Last year, I joined my school's Desi Student Association club, which unearthed a part of my identity that I had shut away. In this club, I began to participate in bollywood-style fusion dance at school events and as officer, held discussions about embracing one's identities, intersectionality, and racism. I realized that my "background" doesn't only exist in the vacuum of my past–it's an embodiment of who I'm today and who I'll always be. With my education, I aim to become a guiding light for other women who aspire to make a difference in the field of technology. My dream career is not solely focused on advancing green hydrogen technology, but also on shattering barriers, contributing to diversity in the industry, and inspiring the next generation of women in renewable energy.

If I were given the opportunity to choose one book for everyone in the world to read, I would recommend “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. This timeless classic not only tells the story of racial inequality but also offers valuable lessons on morality, empathy, and the importance of standing up for what is right. “To Kill a Mockingbird” is set in the racially charged American South during the 1930s. The novel follows the Finch family, particularly young Scout Finch, as they navigate the complexities of justice, prejudice, and compassion. Here are some reasons why I believe this book is a powerful choice: Themes of Empathy and Compassion: The novel encourages readers to put themselves in others’ shoes, fostering empathy and understanding. Through the character of Atticus Finch, we learn that “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” Social Justice and Moral Courage: Atticus, a lawyer, defends a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. His unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of societal pressure, serves as a powerful example of moral courage. The book challenges readers to question their own beliefs and stand up for what is right, regardless of popular opinion. Impact on Young Minds: The novel is often taught in schools, and its impact on young readers is profound. It introduces important conversations about racism, inequality, and the power of empathy at an impressionable age. By reading about Scout’s experiences, students learn valuable life lessons that shape their worldview. Beautifully Crafted Writing: Harper Lee’s prose is elegant and evocative. Her vivid descriptions transport readers to the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, and immerse them in its rich tapestry of characters and events. Universal Relevance: Despite being set in a specific time and place, the themes explored in “To Kill a Mockingbird” resonate globally. Discrimination, injustice, and the struggle for equality are universal issues that continue to affect societies worldwide. In conclusion, “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a book that transcends its literary boundaries. It educates, inspires, and challenges readers to be better human beings. And so, I chose “To Kill a Mockingbird” because it addresses important themes such as empathy, social justice, and moral courage. Its impact on young minds and universal relevance makes it a powerful choice for a global audience.

As a young woman with a fervent passion for trades and technical career fields, I am excited to share my reasons for pursuing a certification in this domain and my commitment to inspiring others. Growing up, I was always intrigued by how things worked. Whether it was fixing a broken toy or helping my dad repair our car, I found joy in hands-on problem-solving. This curiosity led me to explore various trades, from carpentry to electrical work. The satisfaction of creating something tangible with my own hands fueled my desire to delve deeper into these fields. I am acutely aware of the gender disparity in trades and technical careers. Historically, these fields have been male-dominated, and women have faced barriers in accessing opportunities. By pursuing a certification, I aim to break stereotypes and demonstrate that women can excel in traditionally male spaces. I want to be a role model for other young women, showing them that they, too, can thrive in trades. Trades and technical skills are the backbone of our society. From constructing buildings to maintaining critical infrastructure, skilled tradespeople play a vital role. By acquiring expertise in this area, I hope to contribute to my community’s growth and well-being. I envision myself working on sustainable projects, such as renewable energy installations or eco-friendly construction, to create a positive impact. My drive extends beyond personal achievement. I am committed to inspiring other young women to explore trade careers. Here’s how I plan to do so. Firstly, I will actively mentor girls in schools and community centers. By sharing my journey, challenges, and triumphs, I hope to ignite their interest in trades. Practical workshops and hands-on experiences will empower them to consider technical paths. Secondly, representation matters. I will participate in panels, workshops, and outreach events, emphasizing the importance of diversity in trades. Seeing women thriving in these fields will encourage others to follow suit. Thirdly, I will collaborate with organizations that promote gender equality in trades. By advocating for policy changes, scholarships, and apprenticeship programs, I aim to create a more inclusive environment. In conclusion, my passion for trades drives me to pursue a certification, not only for my personal growth but also to uplift other young women. I am determined to be a catalyst for change, fostering a future where gender does not limit anyone’s potential in technical careers. And so, winning this scholarship would not only be a personal achievement but also an investment in a future leader who is dedicated to making a positive impact. I am grateful for your consideration and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to our society through my education.

My journey into the world of STEM began with a fascination for understanding how things operate. During my childhood, I enjoyed taking apart household gadgets and trying to reassemble them, sometimes with varying degrees of success. This inquisitiveness motivated me to pursue engineering, where I uncovered my love for solving intricate problems and developing innovative solutions. As an underrepresented minority, my path has been marked by both obstacles and achievements, each molding my ambitions and resilience. Navigating the realm of academia presented numerous challenges. Without a clear guide from my family, I often had to navigate college applications, financial aid, and course selections independently. Nevertheless, these experiences imparted valuable lessons in time management, perseverance, and self-advocacy. I sought guidance from mentors, utilized campus resources, and remained dedicated to my studies, ultimately excelling academically. I envision my role within the STEM community as a leader and proponent for diversity and inclusion. My encounters as an underrepresented minority have heightened my awareness of the necessity for diverse perspectives in STEM fields. I aim to contribute to this transformation by mentoring fellow students from similar backgrounds, motivating them to pursue careers in STEM, and advocating for inclusive policies in educational institutions and workplaces. My dedication to STEM causes transcends the confines of the classroom. I actively participate in my university's Society of Women Engineers (SWE) chapter, where I assist in organizing workshops and outreach programs to inspire young girls to explore STEM disciplines. Furthermore, I volunteer with local nonprofits to conduct coding bootcamps for underprivileged youth, striving to bridge the digital gap and equip them with skills that unlock doors to future opportunities. These endeavors not only align with my commitment to STEM but also ignite my passion for effecting tangible change in my community. I envision myself playing a key role in advancing STEM knowledge through research and innovation. With a solid background in engineering principles from my academic pursuits, I am particularly drawn to sustainable technology. My goal is to delve into research focusing on renewable energy solutions and energy-efficient systems. By pushing the boundaries of current technology, I aim to contribute to a more sustainable and fair future. The Morgan STEM Scholarship will be crucial in helping me achieve my objectives. It will offer the financial assistance necessary for me to concentrate fully on my studies and research without the need for part-time work. Moreover, this scholarship will connect me with a community of like-minded individuals and mentors who can provide guidance throughout my academic and professional journey. By easing financial pressures and offering valuable support, the Morgan STEM Scholarship will empower me to fully pursue my ambitions and have a significant impact in the STEM field. In summary, my STEM journey has been marked by curiosity, resilience, and unwavering dedication. As an underrepresented minority, I have encountered and overcome numerous obstacles, which have only fueled my determination. Through my participation in extracurricular activities and volunteer work, I have aligned my personal mission with my professional aspirations. With the backing of the Morgan STEM Scholarship, I am confident that I can contribute substantially to the progress of STEM knowledge and motivate future generations to pursue similar paths.

In the past ten years, I made a single visit to my family in India. During this visit, I noticed a significant change in my ability to communicate. Whereas I used to effortlessly watch Hindi sitcoms and recite poems, I now struggled to form coherent sentences. It saddened me to see that my grandpa couldn't understand my disjointed speech, and I couldn't help but feel guilty. I questioned whether my language skills had deteriorated or if his hearing had diminished over the years of my absence. This experience served as a stark reminder of the growing cultural and linguistic divide between my heritage and myself. During my time in elementary school, my favorite dish was baingan bharta, an eggplant curry. However, I kept this preference a secret, only enjoying it at home. At school, I tried to assimilate with my white peers by eating sandwiches similar to theirs. It never occurred to me that while their sandwiches were made with love from their mothers, mine was prepared with my mother's hurt due to my rejection of her traditional cooking. Yet, even my Indian mother held her own internalized ideals. Her comments about my "dark skin," inherited from my father, carried a hint of condescension, as if she could distance herself from me with her fair skin. This internal struggle with my cultural identity persisted until last year when I joined the Desi Student Association club at my school. Through this experience, I began to rediscover a part of my identity that I had suppressed. Within the club, I started participating in Bollywood-style fusion dance during school events. As I delved deeper into my culture, I became aware of the prevalent internalized racism and misogyny within India itself. The notion that "fair skin equals beauty" had been deeply ingrained in the collective Indian mindset for a long time. This realization spurred me into action. In my role as an officer of the Desi Student Association, I initiated discussions on intersectionality, racism, and stereotypes in media representation. These dialogues proved to be enlightening and empowering, not only for myself but also for my peers. Through these endeavors, I came to realize that my background is not confined to my past; it is an integral part of who I am today and who I will always be. Version 1: The recognition of the challenges in navigating my cultural identity within a predominantly white society and addressing internalized racism within my community has significantly shaped my aspirations and ambitions for the future. I am now dedicated to promoting cultural awareness and inclusivity. My goal is to pursue a career in social justice, with a focus on breaking down stereotypes and advocating for diversity in media and education. Ultimately, the struggles I have faced with my cultural identity have reinforced my determination to bridge cultural divides and create a more inclusive environment for the generations to come. My journey has underscored the importance of embracing all aspects of my identity and leveraging my experiences to drive positive change.

Harvard geneticist George Church has co-founded a new company with an audacious goal: engineer an elephant that resembles the extinct wooly mammoth. The company, named Colossal, aims to use wooly mammoth DNA to make hybridized Asian elephants that could thrive in Arctic climates. The idea of using biotechnology to help endangered species, or even extinct ones is not new. In 2009 researchers successfully cloned a subspecies of ibex that had died out in 2000, though the clone lived for only a few minutes. So this technology is possible and it inspires me about the way in which technology can make the world a better world. This is because reintroducing such mammoth-like creatures to Arctic tundra environments could help stop the release of greenhouse gasses from the ground and reduce future emissions as temperatures rise due to climate change. Arctic lands are covered by areas of ground known as permafrost that have been frozen since the Pleistocene. Permafrost contains vast amounts of carbon from dead plant life that is locked away by the extremely cold temperatures. If it thaws out, microbes will break down soil organic material to release carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. As a result, permafrost and the associated carbon pools have been likened to “sleeping giants” in our climate system: If they wake up, the resulting greenhouse gas emissions would raise global temperatures even further than currently projected, causing even greater global climate change. This is where our shaggy friends may come in. Mammoths and other large herbivores of the Pleistocene continually trampled mosses and shrubs, uprooting trees and disturbing the landscape. In this way, they inadvertently acted as natural geoengineers, maintaining highly productive steppe landscapes full of grasses, herbs and no trees. Bringing mammoth-like creatures back to the tundra could, in theory, help recreate the steppe ecosystem more widely. Because grass absorbs less sunlight than trees, this would cause the ground to absorb less heat and in turn keep the carbon pools and their greenhouse gasses on ice for longer, keeping the ground colder for longer. The ability to manipulate and engineer the DNA of living organisms holds immense promise for addressing critical global challenges, ranging from healthcare to environmental conservation. This technology not only showcases the power of human ingenuity but also emphasizes our responsibility to repair and sustain the delicate balance of our planet.