MISHA Ja Young Kim, a Saipan International School student, will be in Washington, D.C. from March 19 to 22, 2025, to take part in the National STEM Festival as part of the EXPLR program.
Kim earned her spot among 105 other student representatives from around the nation by submitting a project that, she said, “concentrated on the integration of advanced environmental engineering and computational science methodologies to pioneer a groundbreaking solution for marine forest and coral reef conservation.”
As part of the festival, Kim will showcase her project to top U.S. government and corporate leaders, as well as network with other exceptional students from around the country.
The cost of her and her chaperone’s airfare, lodging, and attendance will be covered by the EXPLR program.
A news release from the program states that it invited students in grades 7-12 from across the U.S. and its territories to conceive and submit STEM innovations, inventions, and research across six categories: Aerospace Innovation, Environmental Stewardship, Future Food, Health and Medicine, Powering the Planet, and Tech for Good.
The program’s stated goal is to “guide bright minds toward careers in STEM and to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.”
Kim said she heard about the program online and decided to participate.
“The idea of a program that challenges students to think critically, apply real-world problem-solving skills, and connect with mentors in STEM fields was immediately appealing to me,” she said. “I have always been deeply fascinated by STEM because it combines creativity, logic, and innovation to solve the world’s most pressing issues. Growing up, I was captivated by how creative approaches using engineering principles could enhance the environment we live in and how computer science combined with practical solutions could revolutionize sustainability practices. Participating in EXPLR seemed like the perfect opportunity to take my passion for STEM further by applying my skills in a collaborative and high-impact environment. It also allowed me to explore interdisciplinary approaches, which is the cornerstone of my research interests.”
Kim said she has always “felt a strong connection to marine ecosystems” because she grew up on Saipan. Her project allowed her to merge this interest with her skills in computer science and environmental engineering.
She said it’s an “incredible honor” to be recognized at the national level, but she also feels a sense of responsibility to “make a real difference through STEM.”
“STEM is not just a field of study for me; it’s a way to become a part of what I really care [about] and make meaningful contributions to society. Whether it’s through advancing marine science, improving water quality, or developing sustainable technologies — I want my work to have a positive impact on the world,” she said. “I am eager to continue my education, participate in advanced research, and collaborate with experts to push the boundaries of what’s possible. My ultimate goal is to become a scientist in environmental science and engineering, using my knowledge to inspire others and create solutions for a better future.”
