Laasya Chintamani – 2024 Snohomish Region Rising Star

Get to know Laasya

How has your math identity impacted your journey in STEM?
Growing up, I always thought that math would never be my strength. I often felt discouraged and like I was behind everyone else. But with the support of my teachers and putting in more time after school, my confidence in myself and my ability in math grew. I started to do better on my tests and get better grades. Now I feel like I have the confidence to be able to take really challenging AP courses in math and do really good in them.

Who is the teacher or mentor who sparked your interest in STEM?
A teacher that helped me find my spark in STEM was Miss Wong. I took AP computer science principles with her my sophomore year, and her classroom was always the place where we could ask questions. It was so engaging because I got to learn about not only the content of computing, but also about what it takes to succeed in STEM.

What are you thinking about doing after high school and what are some of the ways you are beginning to explore potential careers?
My plans for after high school include venturing into pre-med, followed by medical school, and eventually going into a field of medicine. Some of the ways I’m engaging with this include joining clubs like HOSA and Cancer Kids First. These are giving me an opportunity to learn more about the medical field and find like-minded people. Some other things that have helped me include taking medical dual credit classes and also engaging in conversations with people who are already in the field.
 

From school club to international competition

Laasya’s interest in medicine took her all the way to an international HOSA competition.

Nominated for her resilience

“In our AP Computer Science Principles class, Laasya has shown an incredible talent and enthusiasm for computer science. Despite facing significant challenges at the beginning of the year due to family reasons, she exhibited remarkable resilience and never gave up. She never gave up and worked hard to catch up, quickly becoming one of the top students. Laasya’s creative problem-solving and love for coding projects make her stand out. Plus, she’s always ready to help her classmates, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Laasya has also signed up for other STEM classes, further showing her dedication and passion for the field. Her dedication to STEM makes her a fantastic candidate for this award.”

—Yiyang Huang, AP Computer Science teacher at Henry M. Jackson High School
 

The Washington STEM Rising Star Awards encourage young women and trans and nonbinary youth to embrace STEM learning in ways that will support their education, career, and community.

Meet all of the 2024 Washington STEM Rising Stars!