Natalie Hartley – 2024 Southeast Region Rising Star

Get to know Natalie

How has your math identity impacted your journey in STEM?

Back in 6th grade, I didn’t do so well in math. It was hard doing class online during COVID. Since I didn’t do well that year, it made me want to try harder and do better. After 6th grade, my math grades improved a lot. It impacted my STEM journey because it made me know that I can accomplish things if I really put my mind to it.

Who is the teacher or mentor who sparked your interest in STEM?

The teacher who sparked my interest in STEM was my 7th grade science teacher, Miss Farley. Her class made me realize how much I really enjoyed learning about science. I loved going to class every day to learn new things.

What are you thinking about doing after high school and what are some of the ways you are beginning to explore potential careers?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be in the medical field. When I was younger I wanted to be a doctor, but since then I’ve done research and decided that I wanted to be a nurse. During my freshman year, I joined my school’s BioMed Club to learn about different jobs in the medical field. I would like to start shadowing people so I can explore more jobs and see their day-to-day life at work.

Pursuing a career in medicine

Natalie has always been interested in the medical field. She talks about the school club that has helped her plan for a career as a nurse.

Nominated for her drive

“Natalie is only a freshman and is already applying for scholarships and committed to be working in the medical field. I recently took her on a week of campus tours and her passion for school was something that stood out to me. She was first in line during the tours and always asking questions. You could tell that she was invested in the whole experience. She is a 4.0 student but still shows up to tutoring because she knows that she can still grow and learn and strives to be the best at what she does while remaining humble.

Something I find very inspiring about Natalie is that she was born in the Philippines. She moved to the USA later in her life and knows what it’s like adjust and pivot. She is so committed to making her life something that is meaningful. She is someone that is a shining example to her peers and is always the person that other count on because of her commitment to her education and future. When I think about Natalie, I always think of someone that is going to change the world and break down walls for others that come after her.”

—April Bechen, Kiona-Benton City High School GEAR UP Site Manager
 

The Washington STEM Rising Star Awards encourage girls to embrace STEM education and to explore the use of STEM in ways that will support their education, career, and personal development and the development and needs of others.

Meet all of the 2024 Washington STEM Rising Stars!