As a graduate student, I have had the opportunity to mentor many young women. Through the Science Club for Girls (SCFG) organization (http://www.scienceclubforgirls.org/), I have taught 3^rd and 4^th graders how to make rockets and ice cream, opening their growing minds to concepts such as acid-base chemistry and crystal formation. I also taught two 1^st grade classes about water science and explained the basics of nutrition to 5^th and 6^th graders. Seeing engineering and scientific concepts introduced to young girls in an understandable and enjoyable way makes me optimistic that our next generation will still value innovation and discovery.

Another mentoring opportunity I have been involved with is the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, where I have mentored three students during the summer since 2007. I have also been a graduate student thesis adviser to three undergraduates while at Harvard. I hope to continue to have a hand in giving new scientists the necessary tools for conducting research and furthering scientific progress.