" I grew up in suburban New York surrounded by first-generational families who truly had their lives changed by education. This taught me how to appreciate education and the diversity in it. 

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But even so, I ended up being the only girl on a research team. Throughout my research journey, I faced many challenges and was on the precipice of giving up countless times. But after I pushed through, I realized the beauty of research and how empowering it can be to learn it. 

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The costs of learning research with proper support and mentorship are still sky-high though. That’s why, after learning wonders through my own research experience and seeing the frustration of so many young researchers like me, I founded Research To Empower. I hope to share research, a tool for empowerment, among my peers in my community and around the world.

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So, thank you, dear reader, for spending precious time learning about this initiative and supporting it. ❤️" 

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- Grace

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"My story began before I could remember it. I was born during Hurricane Sandy, when my family lost power and heat for two weeks. My parents held me through cold, uncertain nights, and although I don’t remember it, the storm became part of who I am.

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As I grew older, I began to see climate risks not as distant events, but as real experiences affecting families and communities. I wanted to understand them, and more importantly, to do something about them. But when I tried to pursue research, I faced many barriers: few accessible programs, and opportunities that were often too expensive, too competitive, or limited by age.

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Through it all, I realized I wasn’t alone. Millions of students face these same challenges every day. That’s why I co-founded Research to Empower, to make research accessible to all, especially underserved students, so they can ask questions, explore their ideas, and begin their first research projects to create change in their communities and beyond.

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Thank you for being part of this journey and for believing in the power of young people to make a difference. ❤️"

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-Jessica