She was told girls of color couldn’t do well. She’s graduating college at 14.

Alena McQuarter, a 14-year-old prodigy from Texas, has shattered stereotypes and achieved remarkable milestones in her young life. From an early age, Alena has been passionate about science and determined to prove that girls of color can excel in STEM fields.

Early Start in Education and NASA Internship

Alena’s academic journey is extraordinary. She graduated from high school at just 12 years old and became the youngest person to intern at NASA. Her internship at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, provided her with invaluable hands-on experience. “Being able to go to JPL and see their work on rovers and rockets was amazing,” she said, reflecting on her time there.

College Achievements and Future Aspirations

Currently a senior at Arizona State University (ASU), Alena will graduate in December with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical biological sciences and a minor in global health. She is also on track to earn a master’s degree in biological sciences in May. Her initial interest in engineering shifted to biological sciences after taking a course that sparked her passion.

Alena has been accepted into the University of Alabama’s Heersink School of Medicine but is more interested in research. She plans to pursue a doctorate in viral immunology, focusing on infectious diseases. “I want to develop solutions to increase healthcare in underrepresented communities,” she shared.

Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others

Alena’s journey has not been without challenges. In fifth grade, she was told by her principal, another person of color, that girls like her couldn’t achieve high academic standards. This discouragement only fueled her determination. “I wanted to show that I can get good grades and do amazing things,” she said.

Alena has also founded the Brown STEMGirl organization, which supports girls of color pursuing science, technology, engineering, and math. “I want to inspire other girls to follow their dreams,” she said.

Diverse Interests and Global Perspective

Despite her demanding academic schedule, Alena enjoys various activities, including sports, swimming, and singing jazz and pop music. Her love for music even led her to teach music and reading to children in refugee camps in Jordan when she was nine years old.

Her mentor, Tonya Webb, an associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, praises Alena’s enthusiasm and potential. “She could solve many questions in the field with her life experiences and problem-solving skills,” Webb said.

Looking Ahead

Alena’s plans after completing her master’s include applying for doctoral programs and expanding her nonprofit globally. She is passionate about making mental health resources more accessible to college students and addressing broader societal issues. “I want to rescue children in Gaza, give voice to the voiceless, and tackle homelessness and healthcare access,” she stated.

Alena McQuarter’s story is one of resilience, brilliance, and a commitment to making a difference. As she continues her educational and professional journey, she remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for young girls of color worldwide. “Never let people tell you no,” she advises. “Keep going and focus on your goals.”

Conclusion

Alena McQuarter’s achievements demonstrate that with passion, support, and determination, young girls of color can break barriers and excel in fields traditionally underrepresented by them. Her story is a powerful reminder of the potential within every young mind, ready to change the world.

Keniah Washington, a 14-year-old from Tampa, Florida, has made headlines by graduating from Saint Leo University with a 3.0 GPA, earning an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts. Her achievement at such a young age showcases her exceptional dedication and perseverance.

Keniah’s journey began in sixth grade at Icon Preparatory School, where she started taking high school courses online. Recognizing her potential, her teachers enrolled her in a dual-enrollment program at Saint Leo University, where she received additional support through tutoring.

Balancing a rigorous academic schedule presented challenges, particularly in managing her coursework while missing out on typical high school experiences like prom and homecoming. Keniah remained focused on her goals, understanding that her efforts to finish school early outweighed missing these events.

Her mother, Thomesha Hawkins, described the graduation ceremony as an emotional and proud moment, emphasizing the significance of Keniah’s accomplishment at such a young age. Watching her daughter walk across the stage was a profoundly moving experience. Click here to continue reading about Keniah here.

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