Simone Horton is excited to start her journey as a biological engineer at North Carolina A & T State University. She knew that she wanted to pursue a STEM career after taking an environmental science class in high school. Her life has taught her that although the future can seem bleak, discouragement should not stop the path to progress. In the future, she wants to be heavily involved in making energy more affordable, leading to healthier communities and a healthier planet. Simone is excited to make connections through FOSSI and hear more about how the industry works. Black faces in different spaces are important and Simone is looking forward to making an impact in the industry.
My goal is to take a stance on creating a more sustainable future and thread it into my career as a biological engineer.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
I have always been intrigued by the way that things work. The outside world has always felt like a second home to me. I took an environmental science class my junior year of high school, and realized that the 
outside that I adored so much could be transformed into something that could help power giant skyscrapers. I was astounded that we could benefit from the planet instead of working against it, which guided me towards the field of engineering. With training, engineers have the ability to turn a big thought into an achievable goal. This was all the convincing I needed in order to choose my future career as a biological engineer.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
Amanda Gorman has been influential in my STEM journey; she is the youngest black female poet to speak at a presidential inauguration. Amanda helped me realize that no matter the gift that you have, it must be celebrated and shared. I was inspired by how she weaves social issues into her poems. This helped me to visualize myself taking stances on issues that are important to me, like the environment. It is a gem that should be preserved as it dictates our water supply, and renewable resources. Similarly to Ms. Gorman, my goal is to take a stance on creating a more sustainable future and thread it into my career as a biological engineer.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I love gardening! I am a huge plant person.
- I love reading.
- Green tea is the best kind of tea.
- Video-making and editing are some of my favorite hobbies; I love all of the effects that can be done.
- I have traveled to Greece and Europe over the summer and it kindled my love of travel.
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