"Chemistry is where my curiosity feels most at home"

Over the past three years, I’ve worked on three different research projects, each exploring chemistry from a different angle.
My current project, Computational Studies of Molecular Bismuth Complexes, guided by a UH professor, is especially exciting — so much so that I sometimes think of it as the kind of research I’d want to keep doing for life.
From computational chemistry to reaction pathways and biodegradable materials,each project taught me a new way to think, model, and ask better questions.

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.

"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.

"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