Harshita – 2025 Snohomish Region Rising Star

Her cradle-to-career journey

What was an important learning experience you had before you started school?
I came to the United States at the age of two. In India, the country where I was born, there’s a saying: if your child is good in maths, they will be able to succeed at anything in life. My dad took that to heart, and as soon as I was in Kindergarten, I was given math tutoring by the best tutor he could find: himself. Learning a higher level of math at an early age indeed did put me ahead. It brought me to a class I loved. As a kid and even now, anything that you beat your classmates at, was fun.

Learning logic at an early age allowed me to apply it everywhere. It made all STEM things easier. If you know math, then coding came easy; if you knew functions, you could understand aspects of engineering; if you knew how to apply the logic of variables, chemistry was a breeze. So maybe it was true—knowing math does make it easier to succeed.

Who is the teacher or mentor who sparked your interest in STEM?
Ms. Coulombe, my computer science and computer applications teacher. But to me she is so much more than that—she is my mentor, my robotics coach, my Microsoft Office Specialist advisor, and one of my biggest supporters.

I first met her when I joined a robotics camp as a rising 8th grader. I was one of the only girls there, which was intimidating. But Ms. Coulombe was there. In just three days, she helped me find confidence and feel like I belonged. In 9th grade, she became my Computer Applications teacher. That same year, I started competing in the Microsoft Office Specialist State Championship, and she became my advisor. She didn’t just teach me parts of STEM, but also how to be a woman in STEM, how to hold my ground in a conversation, how to network, and how to manage time. She showed me that no matter where you started or where you came from, you can do what you love and achieve your dreams.

What are you thinking about doing after high school?
My post-high school plan is to attend university and double major in neuroscience and biology, with a minor in math. I absolutely love research and the process of discovery, especially when it supports and improves the lives of our growing population. My dream is to earn a Ph.D. and pursue a career in industry or clinical research.

I found my love for medicine by trying out every single thing I could as a kid. I started off with learning the piano, then the flute, then going into a coding course for kids, starting a robotics team, and even baking. But the thing on the side I always made an effort to do, was to help others. That brought me the most joy. When I combined my love for learning with my desire to help people, it naturally led me to medicine. It’s an ever-evolving field that constantly pushes me to learn more and do more for others.

Pursuing a career in clinical research

Harshita has had an interest in STEM since joining a LEGO club at age eight. She shares how her many experiences are shaping her career path.

Nominated for her ambition

“A dedicated member of her school’s VEX Robotics team, Harshita has not only participated in but also competed at the prestigious international level, demonstrating her advanced engineering skills, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to collaboration under pressure. Her performance in robotics is matched by her academic excellence in technology, having been named Washington State Champion in the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) competition. This year, she returns to the MOS National Championships with even more experience and determination.

Harshita’s talents extend into the health sciences through her leadership in HOSA—Future Health Professionals. As a current HOSA State Champion, she has already proven her knowledge and excellence in competitive events. Her aspiration to become a HOSA State Officer speaks to her vision of empowering others, promoting health science education, and serving her peers with integrity.

More than just a high achiever, Harshita leads with intention. She seeks to uplift those around her, mentor her peers, and make a meaningful impact. Her courage to compete on national and international stages models the bravery and confidence needed to lead. Harshita embodies the future of STEM: bold, brilliant, and driven to make a difference.”

—Harshita’s teacher, career and technical education
 

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!