user profile avatar

Shaiel Tapia Cabrera

505

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I was born in the US but I lived most of my life in Peru. I came to the US independently in December of 2022. My parents are currently in Peru and I am living with my aunt. My mother does not work and my father has a job that pays him $20,000 a year including taxes -- due to this I am looking for assistance so that I can be able to pay my studies at Occidental College in which I am currently enrolled for Fall 2024. Something that makes me passionate is robotics and aerospace which is why for my major I decided to follow the path of Mechanical Aerospace Engineering in which I am looking forward to be able to work at NASA one day. Independently I am creating my own path towards my goal which is why I am looking for the help of scholarships to be able to pay my studies without taking away so much from my parents considering that they have their own needs and involving my university costs would make them sacrifice a lot of their earnings. In contrast with other candidates, I would take a good advantage of the money and be responsible of its use meaning that if I had the opportunity to become a winner, after I use the scholarship in my studies, I will do my best to be successfully in college and manage to get good grades until I am able to transfer to Caltech which is one of the best universities for my dream career. I would appreciate any help even if it's minimum.

Education

West Ranch High School

High School
2023 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Associate's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Mechanical Engineering
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Mechanical or Industrial Engineering

    • Dream career goals:

      Working at NASA

      Sports

      Tennis

      Club
      2016 – 20193 years
      Frederick and Bernice Beretta Memorial Scholarship
      Throughout my school years, I actively embraced the role of a creator, inventor, and innovator, participating in science fairs that challenged me to devise practical solutions to real-world problems. One significant project aimed to tackle the issue of intoxication in children resulting from their constant interaction with non-edible objects, particularly plastilina clay. Drawing inspiration from bakery pastry techniques, I formulated an edible clay using a blend of flour, salt, and safe colorants. In another innovative venture, my focus shifted to harnessing hydraulic energy for electricity generation. Collaborating with a group, we constructed a water mill using recyclable materials like plastic spoons, lids, rubber bands, containers, and hoses. The rotating gears of our water mill successfully generated electricity, illuminating a light bulb and demonstrating the potential of a homemade and eco-friendly hydraulic system. Furthermore, I explored the transformative power of solar energy by creating a miniature solar-powered car. Emphasizing the environmental consequences of traditional fuel, I designed and built a small-scale vehicle using a solar panel, a motor, and recycled materials. While the car moved at a constant speed due to the size of the solar panel, the project underscored the viability of solar energy as an eco-friendly alternative. These experiences brought me joy, boosted my confidence, and solidified my commitment to innovation. Continuously participating in science fairs, I addressed issues impacting individuals and the environment, embodying the role of an innovator in my own life and contributing positively to my community through creative problem-solving. On the other hand, my passion for robotics and space exploration has guided my academic interests towards studying Mechanical Engineering, specifically focusing on aerospace applications. Over the past two years, I have explored Mars and robotic technology, conducting in-depth research on Mars rovers "Spirit and Opportunity" for my International Baccalaureate Program monograph. This journey has revealed innovative solutions for navigating Mars' challenging terrain, reinforcing my belief in the crucial role of robots as adaptive biologists in planetary analysis. Observing the resilience of robotic inventions and their transformative impact on societal knowledge has fueled my desire to contribute to groundbreaking research in this field.
      Otto Bear Memorial Scholarship
      Throughout my school years, I actively embraced the role of a creator, inventor, and innovator, participating in science fairs that challenged me to devise practical solutions to real-world problems. One significant project aimed to tackle the issue of intoxication in children resulting from their constant interaction with non-edible objects, particularly plastilina clay. Drawing inspiration from bakery pastry techniques, I formulated an edible clay using a blend of flour, salt, and safe colorants. In another innovative venture, my focus shifted to harnessing hydraulic energy for electricity generation. Collaborating with a group, we constructed a water mill using recyclable materials like plastic spoons, lids, rubber bands, containers, and hoses. The rotating gears of our water mill successfully generated electricity, illuminating a light bulb and demonstrating the potential of a homemade and eco-friendly hydraulic system. Furthermore, I explored the transformative power of solar energy by creating a miniature solar-powered car. Emphasizing the environmental consequences of traditional fuel, I designed and built a small-scale vehicle using a solar panel, a motor, and recycled materials. While the car moved at a constant speed due to the size of the solar panel, the project underscored the viability of solar energy as an eco-friendly alternative. These experiences brought me joy, boosted my confidence, and solidified my commitment to innovation. Continuously participating in science fairs, I addressed issues impacting individuals and the environment, embodying the role of an innovator in my own life and contributing positively to my community through creative problem-solving. In the past two years, my intellectual journey has been driven by a fascination with Mars exploration and robotic technology. Opting to delve into this captivating subject for my monograph, a prerequisite for entering the International Baccalaureate Program, I embarked on a year-long exploration into the complexities of Mars missions. Choosing Mars rovers “Spirit and Opportunity” as the focal point of my study, I delved into their systems designed to analyze Martian rocks and soil in the search for microbial life. This fascination led me to meticulously compile a monograph index, drawing insights from documentaries, NASA articles, and rover backgrounds. I uncovered the ingenious solutions implemented, such as parachute landings and inflatable balloons, to successfully navigate the rocky Martian terrain. The research confirmed past water conditions and microbial life on Mars and fueled contemplation about the planet's potential to support life. This realization broadened my perspective on the vital role of robots as essential tools for planetary analysis, acting as adaptive robotic biologists. My intellectual journey, driven by a genuine curiosity for robotics and space exploration, has instilled in me a desire to contribute to groundbreaking research endeavors. Witnessing the resilience of robotic inventions and their transformative impact on societal knowledge has solidified my determination to play a role in future space exploration initiatives. This experience has not only deepened my understanding of robotic mechanisms but also fueled my commitment to be part of the ongoing exploration of the cosmos.