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Rising Star Sabrina Redifer Wins Prestigious NASA College Scholarship Award
In exciting news from Lancaster, California, Sabrina Redifer, a soon-to-be graduate of Quartz Hill High School, has been awarded the coveted NASA College Scholarship Award. This achievement is a testament to her academic excellence, dedication to science, and community involvement.
Academic Excellence and Future Plans
Sabrina Redifer, who will graduate in 2024, plans to embark on her academic journey this fall at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She has chosen to major in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Her impressive academic record includes a perfect 4.0 grade-point average and a weighted GPA of 5.29, which placed her fourth in a graduating class of 794 students.
Passion for Science and Equality
Sabrina’s aspirations are deeply rooted in her passion for science and her commitment to social equality. "My dream of becoming a physician stems from a love of science, innovation, and equality," she stated. She aims to develop new treatments through molecular and cellular research and make these treatments accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic status or geographical location. This vision reflects a profound understanding of both the scientific and humanitarian aspects of medical research.
The NASA Scholarship
The NASA College Scholarship Award is a highly competitive scholarship designed for dependents of NASA employees who plan to pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). Sabrina’s father, Matthew Redifer, is the X-59 aircraft flight systems lead at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. Her mother, Saynne Redifer, resides in Palmdale, California. The scholarship provides $2,000 per year for up to four years, a valuable contribution towards her higher education expenses.
Reaction to Winning the Scholarship
Sabrina expressed her surprise and excitement upon receiving the scholarship. "I didn’t think I was going to win," she admitted. "I was super excited when I did!" Her humility and enthusiasm are evident, showcasing her grounded personality despite her numerous achievements.
A Multifaceted Achiever
Sabrina Redifer’s accolades extend beyond her academic achievements. She is a valedictorian and has received the Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar Award with Distinction for both 2023 and 2024. Additionally, she earned the Advanced Placement Capstone Diploma, a rigorous two-year course that complements AP classes. This diploma is designed to develop students’ skills in independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication, which are essential for success in college and beyond.
Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement
Sabrina has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills during her high school years. She served as the president of Quartz Hill High School’s National Honor Society, the varsity girls golf team president, and co-president of the Asian Student Union. Her leadership roles are a testament to her ability to inspire and lead her peers.
In sports, Sabrina excelled in golf, qualifying multiple times for the California Interscholastic Federation golf tournaments. She consistently ranked in the top six of the Golden League throughout her high school career, highlighting her dedication and talent in athletics.
Community Service and Medical Exposure
Sabrina’s commitment to her community is evident through her volunteer work. She dedicated two years to the Antelope Valley Medical Center, where she assisted in the gift shop and emergency room. Additionally, she volunteered at the Quartz Hill Food Pantry, helping to pack food for distribution to those in need. These experiences have provided her with valuable insights into the healthcare system and reinforced her desire to pursue a career in medicine.
This summer, Sabrina furthered her medical exposure by shadowing physicians. This opportunity allowed her to follow and observe doctors as they interacted with patients, offering her a firsthand look at the medical profession she aspires to join.
Conclusion
Sabrina Redifer’s achievements are a blend of academic excellence, leadership, athletic prowess, and community service. Her receipt of the NASA College Scholarship Award is a well-deserved recognition of her hard work and dedication. As she prepares to start her journey at UCLA, there is no doubt that she will continue to excel and make significant contributions to the field of molecular, cellular, and developmental biology.
For those interested in learning more about NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, you can visit their official website at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center.
Contact Information
For further details on this story, you can reach out to:
Jay Levine
NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center
Phone: (661) 276-3459
Email: jay.levine-1@nasa.gov
For more Information, Refer to this article.
