Excellence, to me, is a commitment to continuous growth and meaningful impact. It encompasses holding myself to high standards while providing opportunities to help others excel. As I’ve grown older, the methods have changed, but the spirit remains the same. Early on, volunteering took the form of collecting and donating goods at food banks and after natural disasters, making cards for veterans and elders, and creating activity bags for kids in the hospital. Now, my giving back is tied to the causes I am most passionate about: STEM education, environmental sustainability, and helping in my community. I don’t separate service from my daily life—it’s woven into everything I do. For me, academics is important. I have maintained straight As in the hardest curriculum my school offers, and have gone beyond by self-studying for math and science courses when I ran out of classes in school. I know many students don’t feel this way, though. Often they lose interest, especially in STEM, when it gets harder, or boring, or they don’t see others like them in the field. I’ve tried to change that. By founding my school’s Society of Women Engineers SWENext club I’ve provided access to engaging, hands-on opportunities that spark students’ curiosity and invited a diverse array of guest speakers. I’ve built a space where students can experiment fearlessly, from building spinners from cereal boxes, old CDs, and colored pencils, to designing physics-based escape room puzzles for their families. As a captain of my school’s robotics team, I’ve extended this philosophy by arranging outreach in underserved schools. Watching students who once doubted their abilities confidently take on engineering challenges has reinforced my belief that accessibility is key to excellence. I also dedicate my time to the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Teen Advisory Council, where I work to make science exciting and available for a broader audience. Over the last four years, I’ve led interactive exhibits, assisted with chemistry demonstrations, and organized events designed to spark curiosity in teens and young students. Hosting themed nights, free/low cost events, and sensory-friendly events, we’ve pulled students from all over Houston into the fun—turning our sometimes wild ideas into moments where science feels less like a textbook and more like a shared inside joke. Volunteering at Moonflower Farms, a hyper-local urban hydroponics startup, allows me to support STEM education while also addressing food insecurity and sustainability. By helping design modular hydroponic systems that balance cost, efficiency, and ease of maintenance for Title-1 schools, I’ve enabled students to grow fresh, nutritious produce while learning about sustainable agriculture and environmentally responsible practices. The skills I used to build the hydroponics systems were developed in my grandpa’s shop, where I’ve been woodworking and welding since I was 7 years old. He is one of the reasons I’m so committed to my community. For as long as I can remember, our projects–from desks to beds to lockable cabinets–have been donated to local organizations. One of my most meaningful contributions was to the Remembering Children Ceremony, an annual memorial where 300 candles are lit to honor the lives of children lost too soon. I built the stands that hold those candles steady, ensuring that their glow remains unwavering throughout the ceremony. It was a small but powerful act—creating something to support a grieving community. Harriett Russell Carr’s legacy of service resonates deeply with me. I strive to make the world a better place by enriching the lives of those around me, and I’ve learned that service isn’t always about grand gestures; sometimes, it’s about using the skills you have to meet a need, however small.

Flooding cities. Decimated crops. Intensifying storms. Crippling heat. Devastated ecosystems. Addressing climate change isn’t just about protecting the planet; it’s about helping us all. This is why I volunteer in the Electrochemical Processes for Climate Change Mitigation lab at the University of Houston. By assisting in the development of membraneless electrochemical processes to help industries become more energy efficient, and researching and experimenting with ways to capture carbon from the ocean, I am actively working towards solutions that will help not just my local community, but also communities worldwide. For me, science isn’t just about discovery—it’s about impact. STEM careers provide a direct avenue to improve society, and my work in electrochemistry has shown me that technological advancements are most effective when designed for real-world implementation. Growing up in Houston—a city shaped by both diversity and environmental challenges—I’ve seen firsthand the intersections of science, policy, and equity. Hurricanes, heat waves, and pollution are common, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. I’ve worked to address these challenges from multiple angles: advocating for environmental justice in Houston’s Fifth Ward, developing sustainable urban farming solutions that reduce both food insecurity and pollution through my internship at Moonflower Farms, and investigating and creating alternative energy sources through the Energy Project. Through each experience, I’ve realized that while STEM careers are often seen as detached from direct community impact, they can be some of the most powerful tools for change when applied thoughtfully. But STEM’s power isn’t just in innovation—it’s in education. Houston’s diversity is mirrored in my school, which is 29% female, 73% minority, and 63% economically disadvantaged. We are the students typically underrepresented in STEM, yet we are capable of making significant contributions. I founded my school’s Society of Women Engineers SWENext chapter to connect underrepresented students with opportunities in STEM. From leading hands-on engineering workshops to organizing guest lectures with industry professionals, I strive to make STEM more accessible and exciting. Similarly, as a captain of my school’s robotics team, I mentor students from marginalized communities, showing them that they, too, belong in engineering. The most advanced research is meaningless if the next generation isn’t equipped with the knowledge and confidence to build on it. I want my career to reflect this same commitment: not just innovating for the future, but making sure everyone has a place in it. Science and engineering need more voices, more ideas, more unconventional approaches—the next generation of solutions will come from engaging communities, fostering interest in STEM, and ensuring that the voices shaping the future are as diverse as the challenges we face. At MIT this fall, I plan to major in chemical engineering while simultaneously pursuing a master’s in materials science. My goal is to create solutions that are not only effective but also accessible, modular, and scalable. Whether it's improving manufacturing processes, designing plug-and-play electrochemical systems, or advancing sustainable materials, I want to ensure that cutting-edge technology benefits everyone, not just those with the most resources. And, well… I plan to help save the world. Seriously, I really do. STEM isn’t just about discovery—it’s about impact, about solving problems that matter, and about ensuring that progress benefits everyone. I’m ready to be part of that change. The impact I hope to make extends far beyond research papers and open-source technology; I aspire to be part of a generation of diverse scientists who believe technical breakthroughs must be integrated into broader societal frameworks. I see each project as a piece of a larger puzzle—one where science, policy, and community action converge to address challenges, building the framework for a collaborative, inclusive, and resilient world.

TGIM—Monday is my favorite day because it begins another week I get to spend in Dr. Rahimi’s electrochemistry lab. Whether I’m optimizing electrolysis of seawater, electrodepositing catalysts, or using a scanning electron microscope, grinning so hard my face hurts as I zoom in on flowering nanosheets, I thrive on hands-on problem-solving. I’ve been captivated by chemical engineering’s potential to help industries become more energy efficient while capturing CO2 from the ocean and point sources, transforming it into something manageable and usable and giving back to the planet on a fundamental level. But my ambitions extend beyond the lab: I plan to use my career to drive meaningful change in sustainability, engineering, and accessibility. Growing up in Houston—a city shaped by diversity, innovation, and environmental challenges—I’ve seen the intersections of science, policy, and equity. Hurricanes and heat waves are regular occurrences, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. I’ve worked to address these challenges from multiple angles: researching scalable electrochemical carbon capture in the lab, advocating for environmental justice in Houston’s Fifth Ward, and developing hyperlocal, sustainable hydroponic systems at Moonflower Farms to help eliminate urban food insecurity. Through each experience, I’ve realized that technological advancements mean little if they aren’t designed for real-world implementation. That’s where I come in. I like to think of myself as a nexialist—someone who bridges disciplines to solve complex problems. Climate change, resource scarcity, and industrial inefficiencies are not isolated issues, and my goal is to create solutions that are not only effective, but also accessible, modular, and scalable. Whether it's improving manufacturing processes, designing plug-and-play electrochemical systems, or advancing sustainable materials, I want to ensure that cutting-edge technology benefits everyone—not just those with the most resources. My passion for engineering extends to education, such as through founding my school’s Society of Women Engineers SWENext chapter to connect underrepresented students with opportunities in STEM. From leading hands-on workshops to organizing guest lectures with industry professionals, I strive to make STEM more accessible and exciting. Similarly, as a captain of my school’s robotics team, I mentor students from marginalized communities, showing them that they, too, belong in engineering. I plan to make sure every student, regardless of background, can envision themselves succeeding in fields that once seemed unattainable. At MIT next semester, I plan to major in chemical engineering while simultaneously pursuing a master’s in materials science. Through research and industry internships, I will refine my focus, ensuring that my work has real-world impact. I envision myself eventually leading interdisciplinary projects that merge sustainability with manufacturing, bridging the gap between fundamental science and practical implementation. And, well… I plan to help save the world. Seriously, I really do. Environmental challenges, resource scarcity, and inequitable access to technology are some of the greatest challenges we face, but I believe that thoughtful engineering—driven by a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach—can make a real difference. Ultimately, my passion for STEM is rooted in its ability to drive systemic change; I aim to be part of a generation that uses science and technology to build a better future. It’s not just about understanding the science; it’s about designing and implementing solutions that integrate seamlessly into our world and serve the needs of all people. The most advanced research loses its utility if the next generation isn’t equipped with the knowledge and confidence to build on it. I want my career to reflect this same commitment—not just innovating for the future, but making sure everyone has a place in it and that there are enough diverse, qualified individuals to continue researching, creating, and improving our world.

One of the most fulfilling ways I’ve helped my community is by making science and engineering more accessible. As founder of my school’s Society of Women Engineers SWENext chapter, I’ve inspired and supported young women and underrepresented students in STEM through workshops, mentorship programs, and hands-on events that turn abstract scientific concepts into tangible, exciting experiences. STEM isn’t just about equations and theories—it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and making real-world impacts. By creating opportunities where students can see themselves as future engineers and scientists, I’ve helped remove barriers that prevent young people from pursuing these fields. As a captain of my school’s FIRST Robotics team, I mentor students in marginalized communities who don’t have access to robotics programs due to financial or logistical barriers. By organizing outreach events and hands-on workshops, I’ve helped students transform from hesitant to confident engineers, showing them that STEM is for everyone. I’ve learned that mentorship and representation matter—not just in providing knowledge but in giving others the confidence to explore new paths. Beyond education, I’ve tackled hunger and pollution in my community. While volunteering at Moonflower Farms, an urban, sustainable hydroponic start-up and nonprofit, I’ve helped develop farming systems that address food insecurity while eliminating pesticide use and reducing transport emissions. One of my proudest contributions has been engineering mobile hydroponic units for schools, encouraging students to grow fresh produce while learning about sustainable agriculture. These systems not only provide nutritious food, but also educate the next generation on the importance of environmentally responsible practices. I also apply my passion for environmental action through electrochemical research. At the University of Houston, I develop scalable carbon capture and ocean alkalinity enhancement systems to help mitigate climate change. While this research has global implications, it has also shaped how I approach local issues. By understanding the scientific principles behind sustainability, I’m better equipped to educate and advocate for solutions in my community. These experiences reinforce the importance of using interdisciplinary knowledge to solve pressing challenges. Whether it’s through engineering, chemistry, or education, every field offers unique ways to contribute to a better world. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through service is that small actions create ripple effects. While large-scale initiatives are impactful, sometimes the most meaningful contributions come from everyday moments—like tutoring a classmate struggling in chemistry, helping a neighbor with home repairs, or simply being supportive for someone going through tough times. Change doesn’t always require grand gestures; it often starts with small acts of kindness and a willingness to help. There are countless ways for people to contribute to their communities, regardless of their background or skill set. Those passionate about education can tutor students or volunteer in schools. People interested in sustainability can participate in community cleanups, plant trees, or advocate for environmental policies. Those with technical skills can help nonprofits with website development, engineering projects, or data analysis. Even something as simple as organizing donation drives for food, books, or clothing can make a significant difference. The key is to find a cause that aligns with your passions and take the initiative to get involved. No matter how small an effort may seem, every act of kindness helps build stronger, more connected communities. In college, I will continue using my education, research, and leadership experiences to drive positive change. By pursuing degrees in chemical engineering and materials science, I hope to develop sustainable solutions that address both environmental and societal challenges. But more importantly, I want to inspire others to make a difference—because when we lift each other up, we create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Glowing cubbyholes, lit with every color of the rainbow and filled with seemingly random items, captivated my 3-year-old self. The display became even more fascinating as I began to realize this 15-foot-long periodic table housed everyday objects containing samples of each element, and it remains my favorite exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. My experiences at the museum, alongside code.org projects, robotics and 3D printing at the Children’s Museum, and much more, sparked my love for science. These early exposures fueled my curiosity, eventually leading to my current desire to pursue STEM in college and beyond. As I’ve continued to explore the world of science and engineering, my passion has only deepened—I find myself constantly searching for new ways to understand and solve complex problems. I’ve taken advantage of every opportunity I can find to expand my knowledge, adding to the framework that shapes my understanding of the world around me. Through volunteering in a university electrochemistry laboratory, I’ve developed an appreciation for how materials interact, how theory translates into practice, and how even the smallest design decisions can influence final products. By helping develop hydroponics systems for a nonprofit venture, I’ve gained skills with sustainable farming systems while helping combat urban food insecurity. While designing and constructing welding and woodworking projects to donate to local organizations, I’ve found joy in the tangible process of building and in contributing to my community. These experiences have shaped my approach to science and engineering, reinforcing my belief that the best solutions come from integrating diverse perspectives and methodologies and fueling my desire to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering. I view Chemical Engineering as the perfect avenue to combine my love of hands-on learning with a deeper understanding of complex systems while continuing to make a difference in the world. In particular, my interest in sustainability and energy drives me to address critical global challenges by exploring the potential for scalable solutions like carbon capture, clean energy, and environmental remediation. I also intended to pursue a concurrent Master’s in Materials Science, as I believe understanding materials is key to developing sustainable and cost-effective solutions that can revolutionize industries and improve lives on a global scale. Ultimately, my passion for STEM is rooted in its ability to drive systemic change; I aim to be part of a generation that uses science and technology to build a better future. I’m excited by the idea of using my Chemical Engineering degree to contribute to groundbreaking advancements that work toward a world where innovation serves the needs of all people, but learning is not just something I do for myself; it’s a lifelong journey that I believe should be shared with others. Through founding my school’s Society of Women Engineers chapter, arranging outreach through our FIRST robotics team, and serving on the teen council for the science museum, I’ve worked to foster inclusivity, making science and engineering as accessible and engaging as possible. I’ve provided others with opportunities to explore and find their own place in STEM because we need more voices, more ideas, more unconventional approaches—the next generation of solutions won’t just come from research labs, but from engaging communities, fostering interest in STEM, and ensuring that the voices shaping the future are as diverse as the challenges we face. It is through the enduring legacy of caring teachers like Tebra Laney Hopson—educators who truly love learning and share that passion with others—that students are inspired to go beyond textbooks and lessons. We will help to change the world, but we couldn’t do it without the guidance and support of dedicated teachers.

Science is the foundation of innovation, shaping everything from renewable energy solutions to medical breakthroughs. But scientific progress alone is not enough—leadership ensures discoveries lead to real-world change. The ability to think critically, challenge existing methods, and bring people together around a common goal is what transforms ideas into impact. Leadership in science means not only guiding teams and making breakthroughs, but ensuring they are accessible, ethical, and implemented where they are needed most. My approach to science has always been rooted in curiosity and critical thinking. In Dr. Rahimi’s electrochemistry lab, I work on developing sustainable carbon capture, green hydrogen production, and ocean alkalinity enhancement technologies. I optimize electrolysis conditions, analyze electrode materials, and refine electrochemical processes—all with the goal of creating scalable, cost-effective solutions for climate mitigation. Science is an iterative process, and I thrive in environments that push me to question assumptions, troubleshoot challenges, and refine my methods. My research isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about applying that knowledge to engineer systems that reduce emissions and drive industrial sustainability. But scientific discovery is meaningless if it remains confined to a lab; leadership is what brings innovation to life. As founder and president of my school’s Society of Women Engineers club, I have worked to make STEM more inclusive. My school is 29% female, 73% minority, and 63% economically disadvantaged—we are underrepresented in STEM, yet we are more than capable of making significant contributions to these fields. Through mentorship programs, guest speaker events, and hands-on workshops, I’ve created opportunities for students to explore engineering and see themselves in roles they might never have considered. Similarly, as a charter and senior member of the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Teen Advisory Council, I collaborate with other students to design and host interactive events for teens that make science exciting and accessible. These activities are as inclusive as possible, including both low-cost/free events and sensory friendly events. Leadership in science means ensuring that the next generation of innovators has the support, representation, and inspiration to pursue STEM. Leadership in science proliferates through every aspect of society, as I’ve seen through applied sustainability. At Moonflower Farms, a hyper-local hydroponics startup and nonprofit, I engineer modular, plug-and-play hydroponic systems to reduce inner-city food insecurity and pollution while helping students utilize these systems in their schools and neighborhoods. This experience has reinforced that science is not just about invention—it’s about implementation. Science only matters if it can be integrated into everyday life, which is why I’m passionate about designing scalable, cost-effective technologies that can be deployed in real-world scenarios, from carbon capture to neighborhood gardens. My community has taught me the importance of collaboration, empathy, and continuous learning as I pursue my future in environmental sustainability and STEM. My goal is to develop modular, sustainable technologies that integrate chemistry, engineering, and materials innovation to solve real-world problems, with a heavy focus on outreach in the community. I want to lead research efforts that create environmental impact, while living the intent behind the Stewart Family Legacy–helping others to be leaders in their communities, increasing access to education and opportunities, and bringing about lasting change through evidence-backed science. Leadership and science together shape the future by ensuring that discoveries do not remain theoretical but are transformed into solutions that improve lives and sustain the planet. By combining research, education, and outreach, I am committed to making science not only a tool for innovation but a force for meaningful change. The future isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we create. And I intend to be part of that process every step of the way.

Glowing cubbyholes, lit with every color of the rainbow and filled with seemingly random items, captivated my 2-year-old self. The display became even more fascinating as I realized this 15-foot-long periodic table housed everyday objects containing samples of each element, and it remains my favorite exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. My experiences at the museum, alongside code.org projects, robotics and 3D printing at the Children’s Museum, and much more, sparked my love for science. This early exposure fueled my curiosity, leading me to enthusiastically pursue STEM and give back to the communities that nurtured my growth. My passion for STEM is deeply hands-on. Whether I’m welding structural frames, wiring circuits, or shaping wood into functional designs, I find joy in the tangible process of building. I’ve developed an appreciation for how materials interact, how theory translates into practice, and how even the smallest design decisions can influence the final product. These skills shape my approach to science and engineering, reinforcing my belief that the best solutions come from integrating diverse perspectives and methodologies. My commitment to STEM extends beyond my own learning—it’s about fostering inclusivity and ensuring opportunities for others. As founder of my school’s Society of Women Engineers chapter, I’ve worked to create a supportive space for young women in engineering. As a captain of our FIRST Robotics team, I’ve mentored students from marginalized areas, ensuring that STEM education is accessible and engaging. I believe leadership is about empowering others, and I apply this philosophy by developing outreach programs that make science tangible for students from all backgrounds. However, my path hasn’t been without challenges. Last year, I was the only girl in AP Calculus BC, a situation I’ve encountered in many advanced STEM courses. My school is engineering-focused, yet only 29% of the students are female—I’ve had to prove myself in environments where I am sometimes underestimated, learning to stand firm in my ideas and trust in my abilities. These experiences have strengthened my conviction and problem-solving skills, reinforcing my commitment to making STEM more inclusive. My diverse experiences have shaped my aspirations. I see myself as a nexialist—someone who connects disciplines to solve complex problems. My journey has been about forging links across chemistry, engineering, policy, and education to address real-world challenges. I’m particularly drawn to intersections between sustainability and technology, recognizing that science isn’t just about discovery, but also application. Growing up in a city frequently affected by hurricanes, flooding, and extreme heat, I’ve seen how environmental challenges disrupt lives. This awareness has driven my research in electrochemical carbon capture and my work at Moonflower Farms, where I help design mobile hydroponic systems for schools—creating sustainable, cost-effective solutions that bridge the gap between innovation and accessibility. In the lab, I conduct research on scalable electrochemical systems for carbon capture. Working alongside PhD candidates, I’ve contributed to industrial decarbonization, ocean alkalinization, and green hydrogen production. These experiences have reinforced my belief that scientific advancements must be designed for real-world implementation, ensuring that sustainability isn’t just an ideal, but a practical reality. I plan to apply my leadership skills and technical expertise to build interdisciplinary teams focused on creating sustainable, equitable solutions. I envision a future where modular, plug-and-play systems revolutionize carbon capture, agriculture, and clean energy. Ultimately, my passion for STEM is rooted in its ability to drive systemic change; I aim to be part of a generation that uses science and technology to build a better future. Through these fields, I hope to explore new solutions to global challenges and work toward a world where innovation serves the needs of all people.

The balance between renewable and traditional energy sources represents one of the greatest challenges—and opportunities—of our time. My journey toward understanding and addressing this balance has been shaped by experiences in research, entrepreneurship, and community outreach. Working in a lab on electrochemical carbon capture, green hydrogen production, and vanadium redox batteries for energy storage, collaborating with a hyper-local hydroponics farm, founding an algae biofuel startup, and engaging with global experts at the American Geophysical Union (AGU) have taught me how innovative technologies, existing infrastructure, and community education must converge to build a sustainable energy future. In Dr. Rahimi’s lab, I’ve explored electrochemical methods for carbon capture, enhancing ocean alkalinity to sequester atmospheric CO2, and green hydrogen production as a clean energy source. These projects focus on low-cost solutions, revealing how leveraging existing infrastructure can drive the practical application of sustainable technologies. For instance, pairing carbon capture systems with traditional fossil fuel plants allows for significant emission reductions while maintaining energy reliability. Similarly, green hydrogen production and ocean alkalinization can be integrated into industrial systems, contributing to global decarbonization without requiring an overhaul of current energy frameworks. The lab has taught me that successful energy transitions depend on melding cutting-edge research with the realities of infrastructure and cost. Three years ago, I founded an algae biofuel startup to explore the potential of carbon-negative energy solutions. By cultivating algae in nutrient-rich wastewater and extracting lipids to produce biofuels, I developed a closed-loop system that aligns environmental sustainability with energy production. Through this process, I delved into techno-economic analyses, gaining an appreciation for the immense R&D required to make new technologies viable. I discovered that while scaling a novel energy solution is a daunting challenge, it is a worthwhile endeavor that combines creativity with technical rigor. This experience reinforced the importance of small-scale innovation as a foundation for larger sustainability efforts. Attending the AGU conference further expanded my perspectives. Discussions with leading researchers highlighted unintended consequences of certain renewable technologies, such as the environmental impact of geothermal energy extraction on local water tables and ecosystems. These conversations underscored the importance of understanding the societal and ecological effects of energy transitions. Sustainable solutions must consider not only their technical feasibility, but also their impacts on the surrounding communities. For this reason, I’ve focused on bringing sustainable energy solutions to the community level. As an intern at Moonflower Farms, an urban hydroponics startup, I’ve worked to incorporate renewable energy into their farming systems while emphasizing education and outreach. By integrating solar panels and energy-efficient technologies, we’ve demonstrated how small-scale renewables can power local food systems sustainably. Through Moonflower’s nonprofit arm, I’ve helped develop curricula that teach community members–from elementary students to historically marginalized groups–how to adopt similar systems in their homes and neighborhoods. This emphasis on education ensures that sustainability is not just a technological innovation but a shared value, fostering widespread support for renewable energy adoption. My journey has shown me that sustainable energy solutions require more than technical innovation—they demand collaboration across disciplines, cultures, and perspectives. Whether conducting research in the lab, engaging with experts at AGU, or working with local communities, I’ve learned that the most effective solutions emerge from a nexus of science, infrastructure, and education. I plan to continue this work, focusing on practical, inclusive energy solutions that empower communities while protecting our planet and honoring Dennis Yakobson’s enduring dedication to sustainability. Guided by ambition, driven by impact, and fueled by passion, I aim to help create a world where renewable and traditional energy systems coexist in harmony, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally sound future for all.

TGIM—Mondays are my favorite day, as they mark another week of pursuing the things I care about most. Living in a city frequently affected by hurricanes, flooding, and extreme heat has made me acutely aware of the tangible impacts of environmental challenges, so this is where I’ve chosen to focus my efforts. Whether I’m optimizing carbon capture techniques in Dr. Rahimi’s electrochemistry lab, speaking with community members of Houston’s Fifth Ward advocating for climate justice, or collaborating on sustainable agriculture at Moonflower Farms, a hyper-local hydroponics startup, I’m driven by the belief that real change happens at the intersection of grassroots advocacy and top-down solutions. In Dr. Rahimi’s lab, my work focuses on developing systems that capture industrial carbon emissions while minimizing energy demands. Our research is more than academic; it has the potential to address real-world issues, such as the pollution plaguing Houston’s Third Ward, where my high school is located and where residents face severe health risks from toxic emissions. Tackling such large-scale problems requires innovation and precision, and has the potential to revolutionize life for communities like mine, turning challenges into opportunities for cleaner, healthier futures. While my work in the lab takes a top-down approach, my involvement with Rice Climate Justice embodies the opposite: grassroots advocacy. Collaborating with activists and local residents, I’ve worked to combat environmental injustices like creosote contamination in Houston’s historically marginalized neighborhoods. Together, we’ve spread the word among students, empowered residents to advocate for policy changes, and amplified voices that are too often ignored. These efforts have shown me that climate solutions must prioritize equity and inclusivity alongside innovation. At Moonflower Farms, I’ve seen how literal grass-roots efforts can create tangible change. By optimizing growing systems, engineering mobile units, and developing nonprofit programs, I’ve helped promote sustainable agriculture and increased food access for underserved communities. This hands-on work reflects my belief that scalable solutions begin at the community level and expand outward, rippling through neighborhoods and beyond. Beyond my environmental work, I strive to share my love of STEM. By founding my school’s Society of Women Engineers chapter, I created a space for underrepresented students to explore engineering and build confidence in their abilities. Through working together, sharing our talents and experiences, and celebrating our differences, we’ve created a synergy where expectations are exceeded, innovation thrives, and everyone, regardless of background, can envision themselves succeeding in fields that once seemed unattainable. Whether advocating for local and global conservation efforts at the Houston Zoo, creating STEM programming with the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Teen Advisory Council, or rehabilitating injured animals with the Wildlife Center of Texas, I’ve always sought to balance technical work with community engagement when volunteering my time. These experiences have taught me that smaller, local efforts can also contribute to broader environmental and social progress. Even when woodworking and welding with my grandpa on my occasional visits to Louisiana, our projects aim to help the local community. From welding table brackets for a Remembering Children ceremony to building lockable microphone cabinets for a community center, my hobbies help contribute to the greater good. Looking ahead, I plan to continue balancing these approaches. If accepted to Rice University, I’ll study materials science to develop sustainable technologies like better catalysts for carbon capture or polymers for green energy systems. If I attend UT Austin instead, I’ll pursue chemical engineering with the same goals. Either way, I’m committed to working at the forefront of climate innovation while staying grounded in community-driven action. Through outreach, advocacy, and innovation, I will continue planting seeds of change—locally and globally—cultivating a more sustainable and just future.