How did you first learn about the Children's Science Center?
I learned about the Children's Science Center through my dentist in a casual conversation, where he told me it was a great opportunity to be involved and serve the community. Soon after, I reached out to Laahiri Chalasani, Senior Manager Lab Experience, and began my volunteer work with the Center.
Tell us a little bit about yourself: Where are you from, occupation, homelife, etc.
I'm 17 years old and was born in Manassas, VA. Since then I've had the opportunity to live in many different cities, including Waterloo, Ontario; Hyderabad, India; and now, Fairfax. My family is from India and our homelife is very rooted in our cultural backgrounds. In terms of education, I'm a junior at TJHSST and am hoping to pursue medicine!
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with the Center?
Much of my volunteer experience with the Center has been focused on the Latina SciGirls program. The past few years I've had the incredible opportunity to meet so many young girls, all with different interests, dreams, thoughts, and perspectives. Interacting with children who are so eager to learn more about science and engaging with them in the Lab and different activities has been my favorite part about volunteering with the Center! Additionally, being able to inspire a passion for STEM within them and helping them understand the plethora of different fields available to them as they grow has been amazing.
What scientist do you admire most and why?
The scientist I admire the most is Jane C. Wright. She was an oncologist (a doctor who treats cancer) whose research in chemotherapy revolutionized treatments for cancer and also set the ball rolling on personalized medicine. What I admire the most about her, however, is how she overcame color and gender barriers to complete the incredible work she did. I believe she is someone who all the children who step into the Children's Science Center can be inspired by as she demonstrated that no obstacle based on race, gender, religion, or nationality is large enough to prevent you from achieving your dreams.
How can we inspire young people to become interested in science?
Children learn best when they have examples to follow. Being positive role models, creating connections between science concepts and typical happenings in real life, as well as, making the learning fun and engaging are ways in which we can inspire young people to become interested in science.
What is one scientific question you would like to see answered in your lifetime?
One scientific question I would like to see answered in my lifetime is, "Why does time flow in only one direction, and is it possible to change that?" I've always loved exploring concepts in physics and the most interesting topics for me are about space-time, gravitational waves, and if we can combine the two to possibly create time-travel!
