Asfi Tias

 First-Gen Researcher/Author

Core Values: Environmentalism, Equity, and Friendship 

Bio

My name is Asfi, and I am a super passionate writer and researcher. I am Bengali and speak around 3 languages at home (Bengali, English, and Arabic). I have an amazing and supportive family and siblings thatĀ  I often look after. I would say that my parents were a big source of my inspiration to begin writing fictional stories, and the political debates with my father sparked my interest in environmentalism. I have an avid interest in the sciences, and I managed to merge my value of environmentalism with chemistry to conduct important research. My writing criticizes society and different characters, incorporating equity and taking inspiration from my own beliefs and value system. My impact projects are deeply personal to me and have become stepping stones of my own development, whether that is interpersonal or intrapersonal. They have provided me with a foundation for my future endeavors, and they have impacted me significantly!

Work with Asfi
IMPACT PROJECTS  | HIGHLIGHTS

 

Books & Writing

This one is a more personal impact project, however, it is something that will live with me for the rest of my life. I compiled all of my writing into published books, with one of them being added into the Harvard Library system. This led to a lot of recognition in my hometown. Using this recognition, I have begun mentoring young writers in my school on a one-by-one basis. My mentorship involves going deep into my inspiration, writing process, and industry tricks and tips. My writing soon took off, and today, an international magazine debuted a poem of mine. This is one project that I will continue, as I am writing a brand new collection right now!

On-campus Research (Umich)

This project came to fruition through resourcefulness. I managed to use my school connections and land a lab internship with a highly regarded professor at the University of Michigan’s Chemistry Department. I did research related to CO2 reduction through electrochemistry, and was able to present my work at an undergraduate conference. I also had the opportunity to communicate my science to a general audience of all ages! This experience was really impactful, and I felt like I was in the shoes of my role model (Carl Sagan) as I taught very young people about environmentalism, CO2, and CO2 reduction in a digestible and interesting manner. My experience at the lab translated to mentorship, as I am currently helping younger students get those same research positions by knowing how to email professors, look for professors, and find a project they are passionate about. 

Community Impact 

Environmentalism is important to me, so I have begun an independent study with the help of professionals to confirm a possible link from high levels of CO2 pollution and the onset of dementia. Our work is inspired by my electrochemistry research, and I hope that our results will prompt policymakers in Detroit to provide better care for Delray residents and increase funding in environmental research.

Presenting at the Aluminum and Uranium Conference

Later I was able to present my research at a conference called Alum|NUM & URAN|UM. This conference is for college seniors to demonstrate their research, and it was an incredible honor to present alongside them. I really benefited from the feedback I received. This work also led me to inquire about a very specific neighborhood near Detroit (where I live) known as the Delray neighborhood.

Mentorship Experience

 

Overall, I have experience working with almost all age groups through my various extracurriculars and anyone under my mentorship would receive focused and attentive guidance in all forms.  

1. Writing mentorship for 6th-11th graders, where I help aspiring writers find resources, inspiration, and give tips about publishing. This also includes college prep and essay writing.

2. Research mentorship for 9th-11th graders, where I help aspiring researchers learn how to communicate with PIs and find a passionate course of study.

3. ROTC mentorship for 9th-12th graders, where I help cadets find their passions, navigate high school life, courses, and college applications.

            Q&A with Asfi

 

What others experienced

" I loved the entire experience. I was stuck with my project for a LONG time and I'm glad my mentor helped me. Not only did she help me with my project but she helped me connect with other researchers and experts."

ā€”Amanda

8th GradeĀ 

Ā 

YES, I WANT IN!