Biology & Environmental Science and Policy
I pen-pal letters with my friends!
Whether it’s ice caps melting in the Arctic, swaths of tree stumps in the Amazons, or trash vortexes in the Pacific, when we think about the words “climate change”, it often seems beyond our control — too big, too far, too disparate from our day-to-day lives to affect us personally. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty and diversity of rural New York, it was difficult to imagine that climate change could reach our little community, and it was even more challenging to believe that our actions could help mitigate its impact. Despite the ever-expanding flood zones, the snow-bare winters, and the rising pollution levels, the education needed to inspire change wasn’t readily accessible.
This is the greatest Tragedy of the Commons — by failing to see how our individual lives contribute to our collective ecological footprint, we each lose a piece of power that can be leveraged towards making a difference. That realization is what inspires my focus on local impact: by considering the educational, economic, and cultural contexts of our communities, I aim to increase access to environmental education and develop solutions that can be integrated into our lives. Throughout high school, I’ve loved exploring STEM through different lenses, serving as co-President for our school’s Science Olympiad and Math Honor Society clubs, developing projects for the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, and working with education centers like the Stony Kill Farm, Cary Institute, and Cold Spring Harbor Labs. I hope to continue working at the intersection between scientific exploration and engagement, pursuing a career in research and community education.
Here at Duke, you can usually find me in the Discovery Gardens, exploring Indian cultural connections to plants as part of Equity Through Stories; in AAPI Base, planning programs with ASA; or in a cozy chair at Perkins, experimenting with mixed-media art or adding pages to my junk journal.
SPIRE truly is a reflection of its community — each person brings their unique stories, passions, and perspectives to the program, and we’re all encouraged to express them as we figure out our paths at Duke, and beyond. I love how close-knit the students, faculty, and advisors are, and it’s so exciting to be a part of such a welcoming, collaborative community here on campus!
