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Sarah Harrell

2,755

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Finalist

Bio

Hello, I'm Sarah, a sophomore engineering student at the University of Washington, Seattle. I am inspired by the endless possibilities that lie ahead in pushing the limits of technology. Through numerous STEM classes and involvement with Engineers Without Borders and the Society of Women Engineers, I've built a strong foundation. I'm hoping to receive funding from Bold.org to turn my dreams of becoming an Engineer into reality.

Education

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Engineering, General
    • Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • Minors:
    • Business/Commerce, General

Los Gatos High School

High School
2018 - 2022

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Engineering, General
    • Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
    • Business Administration, Management and Operations
    • Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians
    • Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other
    • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing

    • Dream career goals:

      Engineering

    • Cadet

      AFROTC
      2022 – 20231 year
    • Cadet Master Sergeant

      Civil Air Patrol
      2019 – 20223 years
    • Staff

      Los Gatos Elite
      2023 – Present1 year
    • Member

      Society of Women Engineers
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Volunteer

      Engineers Without Borders
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Crew Member

      Chipotle
      2022 – 2022

    Sports

    Rugby

    Intramural
    2022 – 2022

    Diving

    Junior Varsity
    2018 – 20191 year

    Field Hockey

    Varsity
    2016 – 20226 years

    Awards

    • Highest GPA
    • Coach's Award

    Arts

    • Digital Graphic Design
      2019 – 2020

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Holiday Gift Drives
      2019 – 2020
    • Volunteering

      Letter to the Troops
      2021 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      Shining Stars
      2016 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      City Team
      2019 – 2019
    • Volunteering

      Fisher Middle School Teacher Assistant
      2018 – 2019
    • Volunteering

      Sunday Friends
      2016 – 2018
    • Volunteering

      Animal Assisted Happiness
      2019 – 2019
    • Volunteering

      Field Hockey Development Program
      2016 – 2021
    • Volunteering

      Los Gatos High School Cats to Cats Tutoring
      2019 – 2021
    • Volunteering

      UW Food Pantry
      2022 – 2023
    • Volunteering

      AFROTC
      2022 – 2022
    • Volunteering

      House of Hope — Crew
      2016 – 2022

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Your Health Journey Scholarship
    Embarking on my college journey at the University of Washington was a wild ride, filled with ups, downs, and a whole lot of snacks. Freshman year taught me the hard way that surviving on energy drinks and pizza slices was not a sustainable path to success. So, as I embraced sophomore status, I decided to revamp my lifestyle and discover the magic of a healthier me. Hold on tight; it's a bumpy, funny, and fulfilling ride! First up, Hydration – Ah, the days of thinking coffee was water - a caffeinated delusion! I learned that water is a superhero in disguise. So, I grabbed a trusty water bottle and made it my sidekick. We conquered campus together, and I was amazed at how hydrated me equals happy me! Turns out, water isn't just for fish; it's a must-have elixir for conquering college chaos. Then came Exercise – College life turned me into a desk-bound scholar, but I had a revelation. Exercise isn't just for fitness freaks or bodybuilders; it's for brain boosters too! So, I added dance breaks to my study sessions, strutted around campus like a catwalk model (minus the paparazzi), and even joined an intramural team. I never knew sweating could be so exhilarating and that fitness could come with a dose of laughter. Sleep was the next frontier – The all-nighter life seemed thrilling, like a secret society for academic superheroes. But it is time to unmask the truth. Sleep is a superpower, my friends! I established a sleep goal on my daily planner, bid farewell to late-night Netflix binges, and embraced a cozy, uninterrupted 8-hour sleep regime. Sayonara, zombie days! My memory and problem-solving skills have never been better. Nutrition was a tough nut to crack – College cafeterias are like food playgrounds, but I had to master the art of healthy eating amidst the temptation. I listened to my body's cravings and balanced those midnight snacks with fruits, veggies, and proteins. Now, my meals are like a tasty orchestra, playing the symphony of nourishment! Last but not least, Stress Management – College stress can hit harder than a pop quiz ambush. But I learned that stressing about stress doesn't help. Rather, I discovered the zen side of college life. Mindful meditation classes and free therapy sessions became my secret weapons against stress monsters. Adulting is hard, but a little soul-searching goes a long way. So, here I am, a transformed and healthier version of myself, sharing my health journey with you. From hydration triumphs to dance party milestones, I've learned that taking care of myself is the ultimate success strategy. College is a thrilling rollercoaster, and my health is now the seatbelt that keeps me secure through all the twists and turns. As Dr. Seuss said, "You're off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so...get on your way!" My mountain awaits, and I'm conquering it with a happy, healthy mind, body, and soul!
    Mind, Body, & Soul Scholarship
    Being a college freshman at the University of Washington taught me some valuable life lessons. One of the most important: you can't conquer the world with a zombie-like mind and a potato-chip-fueled body. Who knew, right? So, as a wise sophomore, I've cracked the code on how to succeed while staying sane and somewhat healthy in this crazy academic circus. First, Hydration – Coffee addicts, hold your breath! Sorry, but that liquid gold doesn't count toward your daily water intake. Turns out, our bodies need water, and being 60% water ourselves, it's kind of a big deal. So, embrace the water bottle life, and watch your mood and motivation rise like magic! Second, Exercise – I get it; between endless lectures and textbooks that double as lethal weapons, it's hard to find time for the treadmill. But trust me, a quick dance party in your dorm or a power walk between classes can save you from turning into a textbook-hugging couch potato. Plus, joining an intramural team might just lead to some unexpected Frisbee fame. Third, Sleep – All-nighters may seem like a badge of honor, but they're more like a one-way ticket to zombie land. Sure, they're great for making friends with shadows, but not so great for acing exams. So, let's make sleep cool again! A solid 8-hour slumber boosts memory, problem-solving skills, and the chance of avoiding embarrassing snoring episodes in the library. Next, Nutrition – Ah, the struggle of eating clean in college – instant noodles, I'm looking at you! While the lure of unhealthy snacks is strong, listen to your body's cries for real food. Sneak in some fruits, veggies, and proteins amid the chaos, and your body will thank you with newfound energy. Finally, Stress Management – College can be overwhelming, and Adulting 101 should be mandatory. But chill, you don't have to be a party animal to survive. Take a breather, indulge in some mindfulness, and remember, therapists are like real-life superheroes who rescue your sanity. So, fellow college warriors, let's ace this rollercoaster ride called education. Don't forget, success doesn't come from cramming in more books or chugging more coffee; it comes from balancing your mind, body, and soul. As Dr. Seuss wisely said, "You'll be on your way up! You'll be seeing great sights! You'll join the high fliers who soar to high heights." Now go out there, hydrate, laugh, and conquer the college universe!
    Learner Calculus Scholarship
    Calculus… the dreaded word that sends shivers down the spines of students everywhere. But fear not, fellow STEM enthusiasts, for I am here to show you why this seemingly terrifying subject is actually the secret sauce to excel in our fields! Firstly, let's address the question on every student's mind: "Why do we even need calculus?" Well, my dear peers, calculus is the magical language of change and motion. It's like the wand of Harry Potter in the STEM world. Do you want to predict how a rocket will travel through space? Calculus has got your back! Need to understand how electricity dances through circuits? Hello, Calculus! Everything from designing skyscrapers to optimizing chemical reactions relies on this mathematical wizardry. Embracing calculus opens up doors to a world of possibilities and enables us to speak the same language as the universe. "But isn't calculus just about solving endless, mind-numbing equations?" you ask. Think again, my fellow adventurers! Think of it like cracking challenging puzzles. Sure, there might be some head-scratching involved, but once you unravel the mystery, you feel like Ender Wiggin defeating the Buggers. It's a bit like those escape rooms - solving one equation leads you to the next level of understanding. Plus, the thrill of mastering calculus makes us feel like mathematical superheroes! Moreover, let's not forget the sheer elegance of calculus. Have you ever marveled at a beautifully designed bridge or a gracefully gliding aircraft and wondered how they achieved such marvels? Calculus is the Mozart of engineering - the artistic touch that turns bland numbers into symphonies of structure and motion. It's the secret ingredient that makes our creations not just functional but awe-inspiring. Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "I'll just rely on calculators and software. Why bother learning it by heart?" Ah, my friends, while technology is a trusty sidekick, understanding the core principles of calculus is like having a superpower. You become the Batman of problem-solving - quick, efficient, and ready for anything. Plus, imagine the satisfaction of impressing your friends with a mind-blowing, on-the-spot calculation at a party! In conclusion, fellow college students, let's embrace calculus with open arms and wide grins. It may seem daunting at first, but once we befriend this powerful mathematical sorcery, we'll unlock the true potential of our STEM pursuits. Calculus is not just a subject; it's a gateway to endless opportunities, a source of intellectual excitement, and a key that unlocks the mysteries of the universe. So, let's put on our adventurous hats, pick up our mathematical wands, and dive into the enchanting world of calculus. Remember, the limit is approaching infinity with calculus by our side in the wonderful world of STEM!
    Learner Math Lover Scholarship
    When it comes to engineering students and their love for math, it's a match made in the geekiest heaven! Just imagine; a college student, armed with a calculator, surrounded by equations, and wearing the nerdiest glasses imaginable. If you think you've spotted a UFO, think again – it's just your average engineering student, hopelessly in love with math! So, what makes this peculiar romance tick? First and foremost, let's talk about the infamous math problems engineering students encounter in their academic escapades. For us, solving complex equations is like participating in an intense battle – imagine a mathematical MMA fight! Armed with formulas and theorems, these brave souls dive headfirst into the chaos of numbers, wrestling with integrals and derivatives, as if they were combating a fire-breathing dragon. And believe me, it's not unusual to hear an engineer boasting about "knocking out" a particularly nasty calculus problem! But it's not all intense combat; the love affair between an engineering student and math is often a tale of triumph over adversity. Picture this: after countless hours of battling with stubborn equations, a eureka moment, and the engineer finally cracks the code. This victory dance is not to be underestimated; it rivals any victory lap at the Olympics! The passion for math intensifies as the student realizes that math is not just a subject but a riddle that reveals the secrets of the universe. It's as if they've stumbled upon the answer to the meaning of life, the universe, and everything – thank you, Douglas Adams! On the other hand, let's not forget the hilarious quirks that come with being a math enthusiast. When most students go to bed, engineers stay awake, pondering the mysteries of infinity or arguing about the enigmatic nature of imaginary numbers. And don't even get them started on mathematical puns; they're so pun-tastic that they can't help but crack a smile when faced with a "Pi-rate" joke or a "cosine" pun. Laughter is the best medicine, even for the most serious mathematicians! So, the next time you encounter an engineering student with a sparkle in their eye while discussing math, remember that beneath their serious demeanor lies a heart brimming with love for numbers and equations. Embrace the madness, and who knows, you might find yourself falling for the enchanting world of math too! I know I fell pretty hard.
    Richard P. Mullen Memorial Scholarship
    As a college sophomore at the University of Washington, Seattle, I am driven by my passion for engineering and a deep-rooted commitment to upholding integrity in all aspects of my life. Inspired by the legacy of Richard P. Mullen, whose selfless dedication continues to resonate within the engineering community, I am determined to make a positive impact in the field of electrical engineering. My journey to engineering began in high school when I discovered my fascination for science and mathematics. I realized that engineering offered a unique opportunity to apply these subjects to create innovative solutions that can shape the world for the better. This realization ignited a fire within me, and I have been wholeheartedly pursuing my dream ever since. During my time at the University of Washington, Seattle, I have been immersing myself in a challenging academic curriculum that equips me with the necessary technical knowledge. My coursework has provided me with a solid foundation in electrical engineering principles, ranging from circuit analysis to digital electronics. The opportunity to work on complex projects and engage with experienced faculty has been invaluable in honing my analytical and problem-solving skills. Alongside my studies, I actively engage with Engineers Without Borders and Society of Women Engineers to gain hands-on experience and collaborate with fellow students on projects that address real-world challenges. These experiences have not only broadened my perspective on the diverse applications of electrical engineering but have also instilled in me the importance of empathy and community involvement. Whether it's designing sustainable electrical systems for underserved communities or mentoring aspiring engineers, I am committed to applying my skills to make a tangible difference. Richard P. Mullen's legacy of selflessness and mentorship resonates deeply with me. I believe that as engineers, we have a responsibility to give back to our community and support aspiring engineers. Inspired by his example, I am determined to make a positive impact by actively engaging with my peers and offering mentorship to students who share my passion for electrical engineering. Whether it's through academic support or sharing experiences from my own journey, I aim to foster an environment of collaboration and learning within the engineering community. The Richard P. Mullen Scholarship holds great significance in my college journey. Beyond the financial assistance it provides, this scholarship is a symbol of recognition for my dedication and hard work in pursuing engineering. It encourages me to continue striving for excellence and upholding the values of integrity and ethical leadership in my chosen field. With the support of this scholarship, I can focus more on my studies and actively participate in research and internships that will enhance my knowledge and skills. In conclusion, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to apply for the Richard P. Mullen Scholarship. As a college sophomore at the University of Washington, Seattle, I am excited about the prospects that lie ahead in engineering. With the support of this scholarship, I am determined to make a positive impact in the field of electrical engineering and honor the legacy of Richard P. Mullen by embodying the values of integrity and selflessness in my journey as an aspiring engineer. By following in his footsteps, I hope to inspire others to pursue their engineering dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
    Beyond The C.L.O.U.D Scholarship
    As a sophomore at the University of Washington studying engineering, my journey has been enriched by diverse experiences and a commitment to making a positive impact in the fields of STEM and business. From immersing myself in challenging coursework to actively participating in community initiatives, my academic career has been a dynamic set of experiences that have played a significant role in shaping my aspirations and personal development. My time at the University of Washington has been marked by academic excellence, earning me recognition as a recipient of the UW Purple and Gold Award since 2022. This award serves as a testament to my dedication to my studies and my passion for engineering. Embracing my interest in accessibility and inclusivity, I have become involved with Engineers Without Borders, where I have collaborated on projects aimed at enhancing campus resources for students and staff with disabilities. Through mapping buildings and identifying barriers to navigation, I am actively contributing to a more accessible and supportive campus environment. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have immersed myself in the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). During my freshman year, I participated in workshops, presentations, and industry guest speaker events, honing my technical and professional skills while actively promoting women's advancement in engineering fields. My involvement in SWE aligns with the broader goals of the Beyond the C.L.O.U.D Scholarship, as I strive to bridge the gender gap in STEM and foster an inclusive community for future generations of women pursuing careers in these fields. Throughout my journey, I have also made significant contributions to the community through volunteering efforts. I have volunteered consistently at the House of Hope Food Bank, dedicating up to 20 hours monthly during the COVID-19 pandemic to combat critical food shortages. My participation in Cleaning the UW Stadium demonstrated my dedication to teamwork and fundraising, working alongside AFROTC cadets to achieve shared goals. As a Beyond the C.L.O.U.D Scholarship applicant, I firmly believe that I am a deserving candidate based on my dedication to academic excellence, leadership experiences, and active involvement in community initiatives. I envision using this scholarship to further advance my studies in engineering and contribute to the advancement of STEM and business communities. By participating in research projects, networking with industry professionals, and continuing my engagement in organizations like Engineers Without Borders and SWE, I am committed to making a lasting impact in the fields I am passionate about. In conclusion, I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for the Beyond the C.L.O.U.D Scholarship. My experiences as a sophomore at the University of Washington continue to inspire me toward a career in STEM and contribute meaningfully to an inclusive and innovative society. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I will continue to push the boundaries of technology, empower future generations of women in these fields, and foster a positive change in the world. The Beyond the C.L.O.U.D Scholarship will be a stepping stone toward fulfilling my aspirations and making a lasting impact in the STEM community.