1. What do Art and STEM mean to you and why? To me, art is a reflection of how we view life. STEM is the way to discover the components of life. In my experiences, they become intertwined, as an appreciation for science is only furthered by seeing its discoveries through an artistic lens. My pursuit in STEM is life science, biology. Biology reveals to us the incredible complexity of life, especially in my focus on ecology, the relationships between all life in nature. In the expanse of nature, we find a surplus of scientific knowledge and artistic wonders. On the trunk of a towering tree, one viewer could discover hundreds of species of insects, and another viewer could admire the beauty of the interconnected web of life displayed in its branches. The diversity of the natural world fascinates me, and through science, I wish to learn more about its abundant complexities. I often find myself crouched over patchy chunks of foliage, appreciating the delicate petals of flowers, looking for the metallic glint of a blue mud-dauber wasp, scanning the dirt for lines of ants or animal tracks. In these scenes, I'm able to see the artistic and scientific value of nature. I enjoy art as a hobby as well, since it allows me to express my thoughts and ideas. Self-expression helps me reflect on my own life, and contribute to bettering the lives of others. Looking through my notes I find doodles in the margins of pages that show a variety of animals, plants, people, and some strange combinations of all categories. At school, I tap into my artistic side as a crew member in Theater. I am a member, and hopefully this upcoming senior year a leader of the props department for the St James musicals, plays, and student-led one-acts. I design, assemble, sew, sculpt, draw, paint, and create whatever props the show needs along with my crewmates. When I am feeling stressed I love to work with clay, kneading the colors together to relieve frustration and make something positive from my feelings. I also use clay to make gifts for my friends or to create figurines for my Dungeons & Dragons sessions that delight the players. Art is important to me, and I will continue to use it in both my career and personal life. Tell us a little about who you are and why you wish to pursue a college education? I am an incoming senior at Saint James Academy High school, where I participate in Science Olympiad, Band, Dungeons & Dragons club, and Theater. I have volunteered at multiple agencies in my community and worked two jobs for the City of Lenexa. At home, I enjoy baking, hiking, bird watching, and reading. I am passionate about the natural world and wish to preserve its beauty by educating others on the roles even the most unassuming part of an ecosystem can play. To achieve this I am going to get a bachelor's in biology with a focus on ecology, and potentially a minor in English or Art to learn photography. I am attempting to get into the Honors program at the University of Kansas to get the best education possible.