Student Interview Series: Featuring Students Who are Making a Change in the World
What is the Student Interview Series (SIS)?
The STEAM Boat's Student Interview Series, or SIS for short, gives students a chance to shine. We're taking interviews with various students who have showcased an interest in STEAM and leadership through exceptional means! Showcasing not only their amazing work but showcasing the person behind it. These interviews feature a Q&A style video allowing you to learn more about the student and their work. Videos are able to be found on our YouTube channel and here on our website :)
Want to take part?
We're taking interviews with various students who have showcased an interest in STEAM and leadership through exceptional means! Being interviewed would give more exposure to you and your work. If you would like to be interviewed, you may sign up through this form!
Student Interview with Miguel Aguilar
Meet Miguel! Miguel Agulair is a rising junior where he works hard to pursue both his passion for the choral/performing arts and his passion for coding. He is the president of his school's robotics club and the secretary for the choir. During his sophomore year, he partnered up with VEX Robotics to allow his school to compete on an international stage where they made it to outstate regional.
Student Interview with Nephetetti Porter
Meet Neph – a leader balancing her passion for the arts and aspirations to become an immigration lawyer. As president of NHS and choir, vice president of the theater club, and founder of the Mock Trial Club, Neph is shaping her school community. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and efforts to reinstate AP Music Theory to support aspiring musicians!
Student Interview with Andra Campos
Meet Andra Campos – a high school senior, aspiring data scientist, and passionate community advocate. Whether through websites or nonprofits, Andra is always looking for ways to help others. Tune in as she shares her journey, the inspiration behind her projects, and tips for pursuing your own passions!
Student Interview with Leilani Agudelo
Meet Leilani Agudelo, a rising senior passionate about nursing and research! In this interview, Leilani, a Mind Matters competition winner, shares her tips on effective research and finding credible sources. She also talks about her school life, extracurricular activities, and love for fitness and cars. Don't miss her valuable advice!
Student Interview with Meriam Amami
Meet Meriem Amami, a high school junior passionate about STEM, particularly mathematics and physics. In this interview, Meriem, the Mind Matters competition winner, shares her research journey on burnout and gives tips on how to conduct your own research. Learn more about her artistic side and how she plans to combine her creativity with her interest in engineering. Don't miss this inspiring interview!
Student Interview with Naga Kasam
Meet Naga Kasam, an aspiring astrophysicist who is already conducting research and preparing to publish his first work. In this interview, Naga shares tips on research, publication, and effective study strategies. He also talks about his passion for physics, his involvement in school competitions, and his aspirations to further his STEM education. When he’s not studying, Naga enjoys meditating and staying current on the latest STEM innovations.
Student Interview with Sampurn Shri
Meet Sampurn Shri, a 15-year-old student and aspiring researcher from India. In this interview, Sampurn shares his experience researching landfills on the banks of the Mayurakshi River and offers insights into the challenges facing STEM fields today. He also discusses his love for Indian classical vocal music and his passion for the environment. Don't miss Sampurn’s innovative ideas on STEM issues!
Student Interview with Poorna Prakash
Meet Poorna Prakash, a rising senior and passionate advocate for STEAM opportunities. In this interview, Poorna discusses her involvement in biology and medical clubs, shares her personal research journey, and offers helpful tips on pursuing success in STEM. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about overcoming barriers and pursuing your passions in STEAM!
Student Interview with Brianna Paulino
Meet Brianna Paulino, an aspiring writer and the founder of Cleverly Creatives. In this interview, Brianna talks about her journey to launching a successful youth organization that empowers young creatives. She shares valuable tips on starting and running an organization, as well as her goals for the future. Tune in for inspiration on how to turn your creative passions into reality!
Student Interview with Hailey Kim
Meet Hailey Kim, a passionate junior from Maryland with a keen interest in medicine. In this interview, Hailey talks about her journey into STEM, her involvement in HOSA, Speech and Debate, and her antibiotic resistance research. She also shares tips on finding opportunities and making the most of extracurricular activities. Tune in to learn from this dedicated student!
Student Interview with Surya Uthkarsha
Meet Surya Uthkarsha, a dynamic Founder & CEO of The Novus Debate Society and the mind behind The Nile Clothing. In this interview, Surya talks about launching successful organizations and businesses, and shares insightful tips on entrepreneurship. He also discusses his involvement in sports, academics, and his future aspirations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with this multifaceted leader!
Student Interview with Yannie Chau
Meet Yannie Chau, a passionate advocate from Los Angeles working on issues like gun violence and poverty. In this interview, Yannie talks about founding her nonprofit, Global Youth Security, and offers tips for starting your own organization. She also shares her involvement in other impactful organizations and activities. Tune in to learn more about Yannie’s inspiring advocacy journey!
Student Interview with Zoya Hammad
Meet Zoya Hammad, a high school student passionate about AI and technology. In this interview, Zoya talks about her award-winning Hackathon project on women empowerment, her internship as a Data Analyst, and the role of technology in solving global issues like climate change. Tune in for an insightful conversation!
Student Interview with Chelsea Onuekwusi
Meet Chelsea Onuekwusi, a junior passionate about biomedical research and STEM education. In this interview, Chelsea shares her experiences with the MD STEAM Fair, her role as Student Rep, and her internship at Johns Hopkins APL. She also talks about using her graphic design and video editing skills to support mental health organizations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!
Student Interview with Ayanna Modi
Meet Ayanna Modi, a sophomore passionate about computer science and female empowerment in STEAM. In this interview, Ayanna talks about her STEM achievements, projects, and involvement in Women in STEM organizations. She also shares her insights on solving issues like the gender gap and financial inequality in STEM. Tune in for some incredible advice!
Student Interview with Joyce Hai
Meet Joyce Hai, a freshman at Cornell University and co-founder of ScienceHolic, a nonprofit that makes science fun for teens. In this interview, Joyce shares her journey into STEM, her path to Cornell, and her experiences in Pre-Med and mental health advocacy. Don’t miss her inspiring story!
Student Interview with Sri Tharika Jothipuram Jayakumar
Meet Sri Tharika Jothipuram Jayakumar, the founder of Med2Day, a platform helping students pursue medicine. In this interview, Sri talks about Med2Day’s initiatives, including drives, funding education, and Instagram takeovers, as well as her passion for medicine. Don’t miss her inspiring journey!
Student Interview with Hanni Yang
Meet Hanni Yang, a senior passionate about public health, biology, and leadership. In this interview, Hanni talks about her journey in STEM, offers tips on securing online courses and internships, and shares her experiences leading school clubs and organizations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!
Student Interview with Esha Sehgal
Meet Esha Sehgal, an advocate for closing the gender gap in STEM and Co-founder of Code Her World, a nonprofit that provides coding camps for middle school girls. In this interview, Esha shares her journey into coding and offers valuable tips on starting and growing a nonprofit. Don’t miss her inspiring advice for aspiring women in tech!
Student Interview with Jordan Smith
Meet Jordan Smith, an environmental advocate from Florida and founder of Ocean Busters, a student-run organization with over 100 members focused on environmental education and activism. In this interview, Jordan shares how she started her organization, tips for managing a large team, and her mission to inspire positive change for a more sustainable future. Don’t miss her inspiring journey!
Student Interview with Maycee Taylor
Maycee Taylor is a dedicated student who is passionate about helping animals in Cabarrus County. Through her organization, Helping Cabarrus County’s Animals, she organizes drives and fundraisers to support local shelters and improve the lives of animals in her community.
Student Interview with Haasini Yelugoti
Meet Haasini Yelugoti, a high school junior and passionate mental health advocate. In this interview, Haasini talks about her podcast "Each Voice", tips for starting your own podcast, and how she’s working to make a difference in mental health. Plus, hear about her love for science and music!
Student Interview with Anika Verma
Introducing Anika Verma – A passionate student from Maryland, USA, dedicated to bridging the gap in STEM education. Anika is the founder of STEM Roots, a club aimed at ending STEM disparities and making STEM accessible to all. With leadership roles in various organizations, she is driven to create positive change in the world of technology and medicine. In her free time, Anika enjoys painting and playing the violin. Tune in to hear Anika's inspiring journey and vision for the future of STEM!
Student Interview with Avika Gera
Meet Avika Gera, a passionate sophomore from North Carolina dedicated to empowering minorities in STEM. In this interview, Avika talks about starting her own club, offers STEM guidance for students, and shares how pursuing diverse activities fuels her success. Tune in to hear her inspiring story!
Student Interview with Sarah Alfonso
Meet Sarah Alfonso, a 19-year-old student from South Sudan, passionate about environmental science and nutrition. In this interview, Sarah discusses her initiative to empower women in STEM, her acceptance into the Yale Young Global Scholars program, and her dedication to supporting mental health and refugee communities. Don't miss her inspiring message for girls worldwide!
Student Interview with Eve Tang
Meet Eve Tang, a graduating student in 2027 from Maryland with a passion for STEM and engineering. Recognized for her research, she’s a licensed ham radio operator, robotics team member, FPV drone racer, and future electrical engineer. Tune in to hear Eve share tips on getting started in STEM, research advice, and her journey toward MIT!
Student Interview with Sophia Johnston
Meet Sofia Johnston, a biology student at Mount San Antonio College with a deep passion for neuroscience and Alzheimer’s research. In this interview, Sofia shares her research journey and tips for students looking to gain lab experience and get involved in science research. Don’t miss her advice for aspiring scientists!
Student Interview with Arya Upadhyay
Meet Arya Upadhyay, a driven student dedicated to making a positive impact on her community. Arya shares her journey of founding Plant A Change, her biodegradable robot project, and gives advice for other high school students eager to create change. Tune in for insights on combining passion with action!
Student Interview with Ashi Viswanathan
Meet Ashi Viswanathan, an inspiring student passionate about STEM and community service. In this interview, Ashi shares her academic journey, challenges in top-level competitions, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Don’t miss her valuable insights for aspiring STEM leaders!
Student Interview with Sanjana Prabhu
Meet Sanjana Prabhu, a high school sophomore and a passionate leader in the STEM community. From excelling in rigorous courses to founding StemToday, her own nonprofit and club, Sanjana is paving the way for future STEM students. Tune in to hear her share her journey and insights for aspiring students in the field!
Student Interview Video Series
Attend Finding and Securing Research Opportunities
Join us for an informative workshop designed to help participants learn about how to find and secure research positions. We will have multiple speakers who will give their expertise on different topics.