Since I was in middle school, I’ve loved the curious discoveries my science classes had to offer. From learning about mitosis to conducting laboratory experiments, my passion for STEM steadily grew and followed me throughout my high school career. At Balboa Academy, the many opportunities to expand my knowledge allowed me to look beyond my interests in science and develop a deeper appreciation for the humanities as well.

Through subjects such as biology, chemistry, psychology, and world history, I began to see how scientific inquiry and human understanding connect. This combination broadened my perspective on how knowledge intersects across disciplines and showed me that understanding people and societies can be just as important as understanding cells or chemical reactions. This interdisciplinary curiosity continues to shape the way I approach learning and motivates me to explore complex problems from multiple perspectives.

I’m also grateful for the opportunities my school provided to advance further in my academic studies and take on leadership roles in clubs and activities. These experiences helped me grow not only as a student, but also as a collaborator and problem-solver, reinforcing my desire to pursue a career where science and human impact intersect.

Looking back, I’m grateful for how my school encouraged me to be curious, independent, and confident in my ideas. The teachers and mentors who supported me pushed me to challenge myself academically while also exploring the broader impact that knowledge can have on society. As I prepare to begin my studies at Tulane, I feel excited and ready to continue learning, asking questions, and pursuing a path that combines scientific discovery with a deeper understanding of people and communities.

“I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.” -Albert Einstein
Allegra Wong, accepted to Tulane University in Neuroscience and Sociology.