My Story
Having sustained a spinal injury as a young adult, my father walked with a noticeable gait; even as a young child, I wondered how I could make it better. This curiosity, combined with my love of math, science, and technology, fostered a strong desire to engineer solutions that assist people. I began my engineering journey in elementary school where I became proficient in designing, building, and programming with Lego Mindstorms. In middle school, I participated in VEX IQ Robotics competitions and began using the Arduino platform for technology fairs. I am an active member and officer of STEM clubs and founder of the Biomedical Engineering Society of Northview High School. To further my engineering IQ, I have chosen the engineering career pathway, AP STEM coursework, and participate in training from Women in Technology, Society of Women Engineers, and other programs. Using STEM to impact my community, I have designed a training program that reduces concussions in girls’ lacrosse; am the founder and CEO of STEMfluenceHER Inc., a nonprofit corporation which influences girls to choose STEM careers; and plan to earn a MD/Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering where I can engineer products that will improve patients’ quality of life.
My Project
I will be hosting a short series of in-person events throughout my community that combine engineering and entrepreneurship. Girls will be introduced to science principles through demonstration and hands-on activities and projects. Lessons will begin by identifying a problem. Research and Requirements steps will lead to a Solution using the demonstrated science principle. The next phases of the lesson will intermingle the Engineering and Entrepreneurial processes. Each Student will build a product using the demonstrated science principle, as a part of the Prototype and Analyze Products in Market steps. Next, students will Generate Ideas by using the SCAMPER brainstorming technique, leading to the Prototype and Test & Feedback steps, and a Business Model for the new product. Lastly, the students will use the Pitch Worksheet to practice on persuasive verbal and body language techniques, while pitching their products to a roving panel.