Shaswati – 2025 King County Rising Star
Her cradle-to-career journey
What was a fun or inspiring learning experience you had before you started school?
One of my favorite childhood memories was discovering nature’s engineers, the beaver and the Cape penduline tit. I was fascinated watching beavers build dams that shaped entire ecosystems and tiny birds crafting nests with fake entrances to trick predators. It felt like nature’s own version of smart engineering, so creative and sustainable! That moment made me see the world differently. If animals could solve problems so brilliantly, imagine what humans could do by learning from them.
If you could use STEM learning or skills to solve one problem, what would it be?
If I could use STEM to solve one problem, I would create an app that helps underprivileged women and girls in rural areas access gynecological care, emotional support, and clear information about puberty. The app would include a friendly chatbot to answer questions and break myths. It would also offer tools and assistance to learn new skills, find financial help, and support small ventures. This platform would guide them toward better health, confidence, and becoming self-reliant.
If you could tell the adults at your school one thing that would make it easier for students to graduate and follow their dreams, what would that one thing be?
I would tell adults to make learning less exam-focused and more curiosity-driven. Imagine project-based modules where students solve real-world problems or “passion periods” each week to explore interests beyond textbooks. Instead of memorizing for tests, we’d learn to think, question, and innovate. When students see education as a toolkit for their dreams and not just grades, they’re more likely to graduate with confidence and purpose.
Pursuing a career in bioengineering and computer programming
Shaswati’s career aspirations are guided by her passion for sustainability and helping others.
Nominated for her vision
“Shaswati is the most STEM student I have ever seen! She is passionate about bioengineering, positive change, and eco-friendly sustainable solutions. Her AI-powered green walls with air purification and cooling systems project won local medals and gained international recognition. She likewise developed a road safety system for blind curves at high altitudes with renewable laser light systems. And finally, she placed second in the state FCCLA conference’s Sustainability Challenge by involving our community in recycling microplastics by creating “Eco-bricks” and spreading the awareness of microplastics harm.
Shaswati gets things done and is making the world a better place. After transferring to our school last year, she has already founded our Coding and AI Club (which she serves on as president) and advocated for IB Higher Level math. She’s also engaged with the Girls Who Code Program this summer. She deserves recognition and support for her STEM accomplishments.”
—Shaswati’s math teacher
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 2025 Washington STEM Rising Stars!