Solar Team Captain

By Axel B., Puerto Rico

Through this experience I have achieved more knowledge in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. My favorite part of this program was when I made the laboratories and activities with people from different countries. It will prepare me to make anything about STEM fields at school. Also, I have developed leadership and several organizations at my school and community. I was able to designed a website which is http://tutorias3nmat3maticas.wordpress.com/ that provides free tutoring for students in areas of mathematics. I am the captain of our school's solar team, where we deal with engineering projects that use energy, such as the construction of a solar car. Through this opportunity many students have been interested in STEM fields. So, this year they will apply to the Online Learning Community.

Last summer I participated in the NASA INSPIRE collegiate experience at University of Puerto Rico. There I worked on biotechnology research where as INSPIRE students I had the opportunity to carry out a biotechnology project in the laboratory of Dr. Oscar N. Ruiz, Interamerican University at Bayamón. We were able to produce bio-ethanol from yeast over a period of time, which could then be used as fuel for various motors. Later, we also conducted an experiment in which we altered the DNA structure of bacterial e-coli. The e-coli was shot with a gene gun, centrifuged, and then put through gel electrophoresis so that the altered DNA could be more closely examine.

I would like to be an aerospace engineer and I want to become the next Puerto Rican in space. My goals in engineering are the STEM field where I want to develop more. It is my last year in this program and I will not forget these experiences. This program has offered me the best experience that I will achieve.

Thanks, NASA INSPIRE PROGRAM!