Liyu Huang
Grade: 12
School: Skyview
What do you want to do after high school?
It seems like the next chapter of my life is just a few pages away, and I’m not sure where I’m going to go or who I want to be, but getting to explore the field of STEM through a myriad of research projects, I know that I want to attend a four-year university and major in biophysics. Combined with my drive to give back and improve global healthcare, I hope to attend medical school in the future to explore the interdisciplinary applications of biophysics, impacting the far-reaching fields of neurology, gerontology and forensic pathology.
Who or what helped you make that plan?
My grandfather taught me how to fold origami cranes. Fascinated by Japanese legend, when he had his first stroke I began a journey to fold a thousand cranes, hoping that he’d get better. As he remained completely paralyzed on his left side, I was driven by that cerebral blood clot, joining the Red Cross and eventually co-founding the Future Medical Professionals club. Paired with STEM-based academics and the amazing youth I got to work with through my multinational service organizations, I found a supportive and collaborative community that has pushed me to create and pursue my insane plan.
What advice would you give to a friend or classmate who is trying to decide what they want to do after they graduate?
In Greek mythology, the Fates spun the string of fate, while in Chinese folklore, a red string of fate tied you to your soulmate, creating this idea that life is linear. Enforced by society, I think there is often a push to aim for prestigious universities. If I could give any advice, it would be to explore all of your options and do your research. Even if the threads of fate are predestined, intertwine your life with others to weave your own intricate fabric and story. Find a community that makes you unafraid to break from culture or society.