Emily Tan – Winner, Best STEM

My name is Emily Tan – I am a 7th grader at South Forsyth Middle School in Cumming, GA. Social Studies and History has always interested me, and this STEM project was a new experience, as this was the first complete website I have created. Soon after, I started creating more websites on different topics. Currently, I am part of my school’s FBLA and HOSA, which are two major clubs in South Forsyth Middle. I am also part of my school’s Symphonic Band as a clarinet player and recently participated in GMEA All-State Middle School Band. Outside of school band, I play piano, enjoy drawing and play tennis as side activities. I have participated in the school Creative Writing Workshop and VEX Robotics. This STEM project combined several of my passions and makes for an interesting contest to compete in! I am truly grateful for everyone who supported me, allowing me to be able to get this far. This accomplishment enhanced my attentivity and love for Social Studies and History and I am excited to see what else is in store!

Click Here To Explore Emily’s Winning STEM Project!

Our Interview With Emily

Was this the first time you entered the contest?.
Yes, this was the first time I have entered a contest from Constituting America.

How did you hear about the contest?
From my ELA tutor, as well as being posted on my school’s website.

What inspired your work?
Competing has always been something that has interested me, whether for fun or for learning opportunities.

What did you learn while creating your entry?
Admittedly, I didn’t know much about the Constitution before creating the website – only the basics, so I got to study and research much about the topic whilst creating the project, which in my opinion, was quite fun.

How do you plan to spread the word this year to your peers about the importance of the U.S Constitution?
Most of my peers have already known about the importance of the Constitution, but I hope to recommend them to view my website sometime.

How do your friends respond to history or talking about the Constitution?
My friends believe the Constitution is important, but don’t think much of it.

What do you love about U.S. History and the forming of our government?
It is very well made and planned out to fit exactly what we want and the government’s needs. Providing a thought-out and thorough plan for America. It has also supported us for many years, proving my point.

Which U.S. historical site would you like to visit?
The White House, U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, or just any place in Washington DC. I have never been there.

Which American historical figure is most influential/inspirational to you?
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – arguable one of the biggest influencers who partook in ending segregation in America. He raised and upheld one of the most iconic speeches and changed America into what it is today. Without him who knows what dystopian country we may have had.

Who is your greatest role model?
My parents have raised me for 13 years and continue to do so and I sometimes take it for granted. They always care for me while being strict and without their support, I would not have made it this far. They have shown me success throughout my life and I consider them role models.

What in your life are you most passionate about?
I love the Arts; this includes music and drawing, however being a passion of mine, I am not looking to pursue a career in this field.

How do you spend your free time?
Drawing, listening to music, or if necessary, studying for a test.

What are your plans for the future?
I want to do something that will impact or change the world positively.

If you could do one super impactful thing to help people, what would it be?
Cure Cancer – It’s generic but it’s truthful. Many of my relatives have passed from the disease and Cancer is an incredibly dangerous and feared illness. I remember seeing how upset my friends and family alike were when a loved one passed from Cancer. So Cancer is something I want gone and it is considered an impactful thing to help people.

Why is the Constitution relevant today?
The Constitution remains to be, and always will be, an important part of U.S. history. It has served us well for many years past and still continues to do so now. The Constitution plays a role in commending citizens’ freedoms and rights and still remains relevant today.