Parker Stewart, a 16­-year­old student from Sayre School in America, decided last year that he wanted to study the environment by himself to have a broad influence on the community.

In order to reduce the carbon footprint, Stewart planned to produce enough solar energy to power the school’s science labs. Now his plan is set to happen. To fix 30 solar panels (太阳能电池板) is scheduled for late November.

As he began his research on solar energy, he discovered a useful mobile app. By entering an address, he could find out how much sunlight the location receives each day. Based on how much sunlight it receives, he found that his school building was the best location. At the suggestion of his science teacher, Debbie Wheeler, he first performed an energy calculation (计算) of the science lab to see how much energy a typical lab uses per day. Then, he started his research, contacting a local company of solar panels, Synergy Home, to do the job.He lacked money for starting the project, so he convinced Sayre’s head to support him after explaining the benefits of solar power for the school and community.

Since Sayre provided the initial seed money for infrastructure (基础设施) and the purchase of one panel, the project has grown to include a total of 30 panels. They are expected to produce enough energy to run all the science labs on campus.

“It feels like a dream to think that an idea I had from my AP Environmental Science class would have this kind of influence,” said Stewart, expressing his gratitude for Wheeler’s help. Wheeler said the success of the project was due to Stewart’s efforts and willingness to follow through with the project from start to finish.“I’ve had other students talking about environmental initiatives on campus, but Stewart had the perseverance and courage to make it happen,” she said.

Stewart said that he would eventually like to study Environmental Engineering at Stanford University in California.

I got the opportunity to pursue an unmatchable educational vision at Stanford University. I was flooded with feelings of relief and excitement. It was a miracle that the American Dream had exposed its colors in my favor.

Upon arrival at the campus, ambition burned within me. I imagined becoming President of the Student Union, a member of Cardinal Calypso, and so on. I wanted Stanford to be a place for me to really learn about the vast world.

I was extremely occupied beyond the classroom. As an active member of nearly twelve VSOs (Voluntary Service Overseas), I could hardly focus on my study. Ultimately, my academic journey at Stanford was characterized by a lack of consistency (连贯性). The letter informing me of my academic suspension (停学) did not come as a surprise.I knew I would have to face consequences.

Fortunately, Infomineo, a research organization, offered me the opportunity to complete a six-month internship (实习) . This experience has done wonders for me, giving me insight into who I am, what I want to do, where I want to be, and how I can get there. I should have known that the freshman year is about testing out courses and extra-curriculars, and that each decision should end up helping me in the future.

Most significantly, I’ve learned big changes are born of little consistencies. This is what I will carry for the rest of my life, especially at Stanford University. Consistently attending professors’ classes or routinely setting aside time to review notes outside the classroom. This is where I stand now, and ready to tackle Stanford again. This time, with clearer sight of how to accomplish my goals, I feel that I have detected and revealed a new power within me.