My Story
I always loved the concept of robots, through reading science fiction novels, but was never exposed to engineering until high school. When I applied to my technical school, I had to choose a major. Engineering appealed to me because it required students to take a lot more math classes than the average student, and I love math. Without really knowing what I was getting myself into, I realize now that this was one of the best, life-changing decisions I have made. I was thrown into the world of isometric sketches, CAD, electronics, robotics, gear systems, trusses, coding, Arduino and more! Learning the PLTW curriculum allowed me to experience so many fields in engineering.
My love for art translated to drawing two-point perspective sketches and modeling 3D figures on Autodesk Inventor. My love for mathematics was fulfilled through circuitry and truss calculations. My early interest in robots and the future, from reading science fiction novels, led to my growing passion for artificial intelligence and coding.
My Project
I will run engineering workshops for underprivileged, young girls in my community to inspire them to explore possibilities, through enlightening experiences. This exposure will give minorities a head-start on realizing their STEM-related passions. I hope to diversify the engineering world. Having these workshops will introduce the idea of engineering to young, underprivileged, and underrepresented girls and possibly give them an interest in this field. Through the fun of hands-on projects, team challenges, and problem-solving exercises, all in a low-stress and supportive environment, I plan to bring out the fierce female engineers in these young girls.
Update
Kelly updated her project due to COVID-19. She worked with another ambassador, Rachel Chae, to create an online mentoring program for middle school girls. The girls each worked on their own projects, and they created The STEAMER Girls Magazine to showcase their efforts.
Kelly graduated from high school in 2020 and is attending Carnegie Mellon University, where she plans to study electrical and computer engineering!