Hannah is a math and numbers fanatic with Biology being her second favorite subject. She has extensive experience with JASON, having used many curricula in school. Hannah is a leader both in and outside of school, having held many school offices over the years, and volunteers with the Big Buddies program. One of her teachers says, "I consider her one of the finest students I have ever taught or worked with in my 24 years of teaching." Hannah has a great sense of humor and finds the fun and funny in science. She is creative and personable - a great team player who works well with a variety of people.
In Her Own Words
On Heroes and Inspiration
I would have to say that my hero is my grandfather. He has worked so hard his entire life and I am pretty sure he is the smartest person I know. He is a good person who is respected by everyone. I think that he has had a huge impact on my life. I think that Dr. Keller is my science hero. He is extremely intelligent, and he is so much fun! He and his team are working hard to help solve the energy crisis for the entire world. Dr. Keller was so kind to all of usand he made our trip really special. Dr. Keller is using his talent and abilities to find biofuels that won't compete with our food supply, and that can be quickly and easily produced.
People who may not have a huge amount of ability but who attempt things and give it their all inspire me. Many of these people have made an impact on my life and motivated me to do my best. I think that 100% of one's effort should be given on every endeavor.
My cross-country coach, Mr. Kyrk, has made a huge impact on my life. Apart from two hours of practice everyday for three months, I spend almost every free moment in his classroom at school. He is the "tech" guy and has introduced me to so many new and fascinating programs. His opinion is very important to me and I respect him greatly.
On Visiting the Department of Energy in D.C.
Our first stop of the day was the Department of Energy. There we talked to Mr. Rodgers, the Deputy Assistant Secretary, about what the Department of Energy is all about and what it is doing about the energy crisis. We talked about alternate forms of energy such as ethanol, solar energy, wind power and hydroelectric power. We got to see two energy conserving vehicles that looked exactly like the normal models except for the fact that they didn't give off emissions harmful to the environment. I thought the hydrogen vehicle was very interesting. It didn't even have an engine! It simply ran on hydrogen created by running electricity through water. However, it isn't common to find a gas station that offers hydrogen. We got to sit in the vehicles, which had as much room as the vehicles that run on gas.
On Overcoming Whitewater Fears
Today we went whitewater rafting! Everyone had been looking forward to this day all week. After arriving at the Cheat River headquarters, we were given an overview of rules and safety guidelines. We were issued a paddle, life jacket, and a helmet, then loaded a bus, along with other rafters, to the river. My "team" was Bryan, Peter, Hiyam and Jackie. We were the last boat, and our tour guide certainly kept us entertained with jokes and stories. The trip down the river was thrilling. We jumped off a small cliff, "surfed", overcame terrifying rapids, and made a rescue.
On the Excitement of a Hurricane Evacuation
After packing last night we were all prepared for a quick departure. We headed over to NASA where everything was being covered for protection from the hurricane. Our team finished up our challenge from Constance Adams. We did some last minute filming and prepared to leave. As a small town girl from Ohio I have never had the chance to experience a hurricane evacuation, but looking back it was very hectic! Along with most of the Houston inhabitants we rushed to the airport. The traffic was crazy. We made it to the airport and after going through security we only had a few minutes left to board the plane, but we all made it home safely.
What JASON Means to Me
Being chosen as a JASON Argonaut is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I met the most amazing people whom I will treasure as friends for the rest of my life. In the few weeks spent with The JASON Project I learned so much. I will use the knowledge, experience and skills I gained through The JASON Project for the rest of my life. I would encourage anyone and everyone with any sort of interest in science or math to apply for this life-changing experience.
The things I learned in my JASON experience can apply to my life now and in the future. I learned that no questions are stupid. There will always be someone else who is wondering the same thing and who, too, is embarrassed to ask. I learned how to adapt to situations quickly. The JASON program showed me that there is a bigger world than just my small town in rural Ohio.
Working with the scientists on my missions and at boot camp was a truly inspiring experience, and although I do not have any idea what I would like to do with my life, I think working in any of these fields – bioenergy, architecture, physics, genetic engineering, or even making energy decisions for the country – would be awesome!