Hello, I’m Ethan Serpa, a Gateway to College student completing my high school requirements at STCC. Last year, I moved to Springfield from Singapore, and attending STCC has been an incredible experience. It is affordable and offers diverse STEM majors in a supportive environment with a strong focus on career preparation. This year, I took BIO101 and was introduced to many fascinating topics. The lab about Protists and learning how they offer remarkable benefits to society was my favorite. Above is a picture of me with my pet, a female veiled chameleon Octavia.
The panel discussion on Renewable Energy was both informational and inspiring. It has left me thinking deeply if a future of sustainable energy is feasible. One presentation that stood out was Dr. Stephen Herbert’s talk on agrivoltaics and solar farming. He discussed this innovative use of dual land utilization, showing how solar panels mounted on 8-foot-tall poles, spaced 4 feet apart, can still yield approximately 90% of typical crop production. A great example of agrivoltaics is a large solar array installed on a wild blueberry farm or where animals graze below the panels providing a dual use of the land for both energy production and agriculture or livestock grazing. This idea of optimizing land usage opened my mind to the endless possibilities in renewable energy. The enthusiasm and expertise of all the speakers created a motivating and electrifying atmosphere in the auditorium.
After the presentations, we moved to the gymnasium, where I had the chance to explore 98 student research posters and models on various topics. It was a lively setting, with event organizers providing pizza and refreshments, making the learning experience even more enjoyable. I was happy and proud to see my own poster. My project was about my new passion for Protists and its potential as a biofuel. Since it can do photosynthesis, it can reduce our atmospheric CO2 levels and provides a renewable energy to power our daily lives. Algae can grow quickly and has a very high oil content, can be grown in non-agricultural land and wastewater. Since it does not compete with our agriculture it is a great renewable energy option with a lower carbon footprint.
Sharing my research findings with my peers, professors, and judges was exhilarating. Their questions and feedback pushed me to think more critically about my research. Winning 3rd prize for my work was a moment of pride and validation. My mom was proud but surprised since she had no idea that I would be receiving an award. It reminded me that passion and persistence can lead to great achievements. This event nurtured my interest in how innovation in STEM is important for sustainability.
Are you considering participating in an event like this? My sincere advice is simple, follow your curiosity. Study research articles, and don’t be afraid to share your ideas. Curiosity is a powerful tool to advance new discoveries to solve current problems. I’m grateful to my professor Randhir and for the opportunity to participate in the symposium. I look forward to seeing where my journey of curiosity takes me next.
