"I’ve never been able to stay away from chemistry."

Over the past three years, I’ve worked on three research projects,
each exploring chemistry from a different perspective.
My current project, Computational Studies of Molecular Bismuth Complexes,
guided by a UH professor, is especially exciting —
it’s where I discovered how predicting reactions can change how research is done.
From computational chemistry to reaction pathways and biodegradable materials,
each project taught me how to think more deeply, model more carefully,
and ask better questions before experiments even begin.

Computational Studies of Molecular Bismuth Complexes

In progress

Abstract: Computational analysis of effects of ligand architecture on bond strength and radical stability in molecular bismuth complexes through using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Quasi-Atomic Orbital (QUAO)

Methods: The bond dissociation energy (BDE) calculations through ground-state geometry optimization and vibrational frequency analysis via DFT (M06-L/def2-TZVP/ECP), followed by QUAO analysis of electronic structure (σ bonds, delocalized π orbitals, hyperconjugation, π backbonding)

Implication: Advancing sustainable main-group catalysis through predictive electronic structure modeling of ligand architectures to replace transition-metal catalysts

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Furfural Hydrogenation Pathways (VASP)

Poster

Abstract: Computational thermodynamic and kinetic analyses of hydrogenation pathways reveal how Pt–Sn alloys, compared with Pt surfaces, suppress undesirable C–C bond cleavage while favoring selective carbonyl hydrogenation, leading to enhanced selectivity toward furfuryl alcohol

Methods: Detailed investigation of hydrogenation reaction pathways on metal catalytic surfaces, such as Pt(111) and Pt–Sn alloy, via nudged elastic band (NEB) calculations implemented in VASP to resolve transition states, reaction paths, and associated activation energies

Implication: Despite thermodynamic favorability, relatively high kinetic barriers (~2 eV) suppress formation of byproducts such as furan and THF

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PLA-PHB Biodegradable Polymer Design

Whitepaper

Abstract: Balancing toughness vs. crystallinity in PLA-PHB blends via composition/processing heuristics

Methods: Literature mining · Simple modeling · Property mapping

Implication: Enabling design of PLA-PHB blends with tailored toughness and crystallinity for practical applications

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"Not all experiments start with a serious research question."

Sometimes I just feel like working with chemistry.
Sometimes a random idea from AP Biology leads me to feed pillbugs copper sulfate.
These small, curiosity-driven lab projects are where science feels most playful — and most alive.

Tollens Reagent Demo

A classic redox reaction where a clear solution unexptedly coats the flask in metallic silver?!

While working on qualitative analysis, I found silver nitrate, sodium hydroxide, and ammonia, which inspired me to try synthesizing the [Ag(NH₃)₂]⁺coordination complex under basic conditions.

Now awaits the addition of dextrose - let's see what happens!

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Malachite
Synthesis

I found copper sulfate in my Science Olympiad chemical storage and randomly thought of adding washing soda powder to it!

Malachite is a well-known mineral, but you can technically synthesize it chemically!

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Copper Sulfate on Pillubgs

Well I was quite obsessed with copper sulfate for months.

I was randomly inspired to feed pillbugs copper sulfate based on what I learned in AP Biology class about behavioral biology and the literature on copper fixation!

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"Science is more fun when you build it with people."

I love STEM so much that I somehow ended up in four STEM clubs. This year, I’m serving as Captain in all four — busy, yes, but incredibly rewarding. Leading teams and helping others grow has become one of my favorite parts of learning.

"My interests don’t stop at the lab door."

As a Hawaii State Legislature intern, I explored how science connects to policy and community impact. As a jazz band member, I get to express myself in a completely different way —
through sound instead of equations.

STEM Leadership

Founder of Chemistry Club: Building a community of aspiring chemists through hands-on lab sessions, advanced experiments, and peer-led USNCO preparation

Science Olympiad Co-Captain: Orchestrating 40+ teammates to earn 20+ medals in 10+ tourneys and fostering teamwork through optional practices, culminating in historic Nationals Top-12

Science Bowl Co-Captain: Spearheading team to historic Top-12 at Nationals and $1K award by coordinating 3+ tourneys, weekly practices, and collaborative study materials

Math Team Co-Captain: Co-authoring tryout sets and mentoring 20+ teammates to sustaining 32-year state championship streak

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Community Service

Legislative Intern at Representative Sam Satoru Kong’s Office: Translating scientific reasoning into public policy for Hawai‘i communities.

Math Center Head Tutor: Building a collaborative community of learners through personalized tutoring and peer activities

Hawai‘i Foodbank & Beach Cleanups: Supporting community wellness and preserving Hawai‘i’s natural beauty

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Life of Music

Lead Trombonist: Featured solos and ensemble mentoring in the Stage Band and Big Band Bash.

Performance Leadership: Coordinated sectional rehearsals and cross-school collaborations for annual jazz festivals.

Creative Expression: Documented performances and reflections in the music gallery.

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"Failure is part of every build worth finishing."

Through SciOly robotics and electric vehicle projects, I’ve failed more times than I can count.
But the moment a vehicle finally moves — and stops — exactly as I designed it to,
every failed attempt suddenly feels worth it.

Mechatronics Engineering

Autonomous Navigation Robot Electric Vehicle

I was involved in mechatronics engineering for Science Olympiad, specifically in the Robot Tour and Electric Vehicle events. Throughout the seasons, my partners and I tested many different designs, some of which will hopefully serve as references for future generations of team members. Currently, I have transitioned into a coaching role rather than working on the projects myself. My past designs have continued to inspire new members of the team!

Robotics Detail EV DOC

Material Engineering

Concrete Pucks

I was involved in materials engineering through hands-on projects with concrete and other composites. The most exciting aspect of materials science is how it combines my favorite subject, chemistry, with other disciplines such as engineering and physics! Over the course of the year, my partner and I experimented with different compositions, curing methods, and additives to optimize strength and durability. Some of our findings and designs may serve as references for future students!

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"Grades don’t define everything —
but they do tell part of my story."

SAT scores and GPA reflect my consistency, not just performance.
I didn’t study quantum mechanics or materials science for exams —
I studied them out of pure curiosity.
Wanting to understand why things work has always been my strongest motivation.

Major Achievement

USNCO Honors Top 150 Nationwide2025

Perfect GPA 4.00 Unweighted2022-2025

USNCO Honors Top 150 Nationwide2025

The Cum Laude Society Fellowship2025

National Merit Semi Final2025

Advanced Courses

Complete the highest level of STEM courses

AP Chemistry

AP Physics 1, AP Physics C

AP Calculus BC

AP Statistics

Multivariable Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations

Linear Algebra (Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies)

AP Biology

Full Resume

Additional Learning

Self driven study through college level textbooks

Introduction to Quantum Mechanics by D.J. Griffiths

Organic Chemistry by L.G. Wade Jr.

Inorganic Chemistry by G.L. Miessler et al.

Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction by W.D. Callister Jr & D.G. Rethwisch

Fundamentals of Physics by D. Halliday et al.

Campbell Biology by L.A. Urry et al.

Earth: Portrait of a Planet by S. Marshak