Academic Achievement
Technology Student Association (TSA) Engineering Design National Qualifier (State Top 3), Biotechnology Design 3x State Qualifier and 2x State Finalist, President – 4 Years
2024 Biomedical Engineering Society High School Poster Expo: Accepted Abstract, Research Intern at BOILab, Duquesne University – 2 Years
HOSA State Leadership Conference Veterinary Science 4th Place, Medical Innovation State Top 20, Competitor – 3 Years
PMEA All-State Concert Band First Chair Second Flute, 3x Region Band Qualifier, 2x District Orchestra Qualifier, Auditionee – 3 Years
President’s Volunteer Service Award Gold, Tri-M Music Honors Society Vice President, National Science Honors Society, AP Scholar with Distinction, Member – 3 Years
Extracurricular Activities
Developed 3D-printed noninvasive glucose detectors leveraging polarized light technology to measure blood sugar levels, utilizing Autodesk Fusion 360 for design and MATLAB for data analysis. Conducted a series of experiments on glucose monitoring devices, culminating in an abstract accepted for presentation at the 2024 Biomedical Engineering Society Conference in Baltimore, MD. Achieved State Finalist status in the 2024 HOSA Medical Innovation Competition., Research Intern at BOILab, Duquesne University – 2 Years
Represented North Allegheny TSA chapter at regional and state competitions. Directed 12 officer and member meetings with advisor and organized competitive events. Competed at the annual PA TSA State Conference since 6th grade. Qualifying events include Engineering Design, Biotechnology Design, and Mass Production., President – 4 Years
Spearheaded and led North Allegheny’s first 150-member animal welfare organization. Initiated projects such as creating dog toys from recycled t-shirts, designing animal-themed laptop stickers for fundraising efforts, and bringing in therapy animals. Organized the donation of 120 toys to local animal shelters, raised $700 supporting animal welfare causes in Pittsburgh and Ukraine, coordinated 5 therapy pet visits, and hosted a community pet walk event., Co-Founder and President of Animaleer (Animal Welfare School Organization) – 4 Years
1 of 15 interns selected for a youth animal and environmental advocacy committee, meeting monthly to discuss policy strategies and develop skills in youth advocacy. Advocated for animal welfare through engaging in a spring pollinator garden project. Drafted policy grants, discussed animal welfare campaigns with Pittsburgh legislators, and met with foundation grants., Youth Steering Committee Internship at Humane Action Pennsylvania (Animal Welfare Nonprofit) – 1 Year
1 of 15 students selected for a year-long author mentorship program. Authored and illustrated a 27-page children’s book on the evolutionary journey of dogs and presented to youth audiences at storytelling events. Published “Evolution: A Dog’s Perspective” on Amazon KDP., Carnegie Science Center STEM Storytellers Program – 1 Year
Community Involvement
Shadowed Dr. Ewald (VMD), Dr. Pleban (DVM), and Dr. Driscoll (CVT) for 70 hours, observing 120 medical procedures, including exams, surgeries, X-rays, and microscopic analyses. Assisted with animal handling, administered breathing support during procedures, and calmed patients with treats., Veterinary Shadow at VCA Wexford Animal Hospital and Animal Friends – 3 Years
Instructed weekly 2-hour Chinese language classes for 15 students, supporting lesson planning, group reading activities, and homework and exam grading. Led weekly 1-hour calligraphy and painting classes for 20 students. Served as a Chinese School representative at the annual Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Festival, helping with cultural art activities and class registration. Earned President’s Volunteer Service Award Gold., Teaching Assistant Volunteer – 3 Years
Flute, Piccolo, Alto Flute, and Bass Flute Player. Performed in ensembles at Dvorak Hall, Carnegie Hall, Heinz Hall, and various community venues, including local nursing/senior homes, churches, and schools. Silver-tongued storyteller: “To play a wrong note is insignificant. To play without passion is inexcusable!” – Beethoven., Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestra and North Pittsburgh Youth Flute Ensemble Member – 4 Years
Volunteered 190 hours at a local animal shelter, assisting dog socialization events, walking shelter dogs, socializing kittens, training puppies, and performing dishwashing and laundry duties. Mentored 70 students ages 5-14 across 4 summer camps (Critter Camp, Camp Animal Friends, Pets Plus, Canine Good Manners) about animal welfare and pet care. Assisted in animal handling and training, lesson planning, and medical suite and shelter tours., Humane Educator, Animal Handler, and 3x Summer Camp Counselor at Animal Friends Animal Shelter – 4 Years
Collaborated with a team to manage 50 orders per shift, handle customer orders, and organize supplies. Worked 15-20 hours per week over 2 summer breaks., Part-Time Job at Crumbl – 2 Years
Plans
I hope to combine my love for science and animal welfare in the future, pursuing a career that advocates for better veterinary healthcare access through studying engineering or public health. My goal is to give back to the animal community by promoting equity in veterinary care, ensuring that all animals receive the treatment they deserve. Additionally, I hope to continue my love for music in college by playing in a symphony orchestra.