“My story with STEM started in what I consider the South, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I was a part of a very large high school that was predominantly white. However, I belonged to a tight knit group of POC students who had an interest in biology, particularly fish biology and environmental studies. I recall having a teacher who allowed me to explore this passion for marine life and botany. In these early years this teacher taught me the importance of pursuing your interests in science, whatever they may be. Being surrounded by a community of like-minded students with a passionate teacher from junior to senior year enabled me to pursue fish biology and botany as a focus in my college courses. I recall taking interactive courses where I would get to identify plants in the field and also create preservation areas where fish life was depleted. These experiences showed me that science is more than just white lab coats and test tube. Science is more than acquiring a doctor title. Science is taking an interest in nature, learning the foundation, no matter how young, and applying that knowledge in the field to make a tangible and long-lasting change.”