Future marine biologist Alexio Quintanilla is inspired by the ocean—its power to calm, to give life, and to evoke awe. Alexio looks forward to studying the micro-bacteria that keep the ocean clean, thriving, and fed, as well as the behavior of sea lions. A high school junior at Woodside High School, Alexio moved to the US from El Salvador with his mother in pursuit of a fresh start. Despite the challenges of learning in a new cultural and linguistic context, he has become a model student, earning straight As in the Fall 2020 semester. Alexio has learned how to draw inspiration from deep within, demonstrating the resilience, drive, and focus that will serve him well in his future career as a scientist.
Sponsor: The Woodlawn Foundation
