My Story.
MY CREATIVE JOURNEY
My creative journey started in 2nd grade with my introduction to the competition Destination Imagination which taught me how to challenge the ordinary and think outside of the box.
I got exposed to fine arts, building, teamwork, and using everyday materials to build something novel. 10 years of this program shaped me to the person I am today.
In 4th grade, I joined a rookie FIRST Lego League team in which I explored programming and building. These skills transferred into Destination Imagination in 5th grade in which I reverse-engineered a hovercraft, used parts of it, and built a new hovercraft designed to traverse a maze.
From there my passion for engineering grew. The following year I built a 3-foot-long music machine based on a miniature version I saw at a friend's house.
EXPLORING BUILDING
CREATIVE PANDEMIC
With the extra time I gained in my 8th-grade year from the pandemic, I learned to use technology to make art. With all competitions (Destination Imagination and National History Day) going online I self-learned advanced video editing skills. Additionally, I explored laser cutting, 3D printing, digital art, and vinyl cutting.
With a passion for gift-giving, I began creating unique custom gifts for my friends and family that combined technology and art. Whether it was an LED light, water bottle, nameplate, hoodie, etc. I continued to explore how I could combine my two passions.
Joining the FIRST Robotics Competition team 1294 Pack of Parts I saw how much impact was being made on the community and internationally and joined the efforts by hosting workshops, attending farmers markets, and planning summer camps impacting upwards of 400 students in one year. Additionally, I began co-leading a STEMUnboxed initiative to provide Title 1 schools in our area with free STEM enrichment.
With Destination Imagination being affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic I founded and led the WA Destination Imagination Youth Committee intending to expose more kids to this creative program and growing participation.
