## Review: Kaua‘i Students Shine at FIRST Championships
The For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Championships held in Houston last month saw two Kaua‘i students, Joveline Alice F. Alvarez and Martian Binonwangan Jr., take home the prestigious Dean’s List Awards. This marked a significant achievement for the students, as it was the first time a student from Kaua‘i had won or been named a finalist in the competition. Let’s delve deeper into their inspiring journey and the impact they are making in the field of robotics and STEM education.
### The Dean’s List Awards: Recognizing Excellence in Leadership and Dedication
The Dean’s List Awards, introduced in 2010 by FIRST, aim to recognize the leadership and dedication of outstanding secondary school students in the field of science and technology. Alvarez and Binonwangan were among the 20 students selected for this prestigious award out of thousands of participants in FIRST qualifying robotics team events. Their selection highlights their exceptional leadership qualities, technical expertise, and personal accomplishments in the field.
### Nominated by Mentor Cynthia Hannah-White: A Testament to Their Contributions
Cynthia Hannah-White, the lead mentor of the FIRST robotics team Kaua‘i Bots and president of the Kaua‘i Robotics Alliance, nominated Alvarez and Binonwangan for the Dean’s List Awards. In an interview, she praised their contributions to the team, highlighting their willingness to learn, leadership skills, and ability to bring the team together for success. Both students have been actively involved in the robotics program since middle school, showcasing a strong commitment to growing the robotics community on the island.
### From Nomination to Finalists: Alvarez and Binonwangan’s Journey to Success
After being nominated by Hannah-White, Alvarez and Binonwangan underwent a rigorous selection process as finalists for the Dean’s List Award. They were interviewed by a panel of judges at state and regional competitions, ultimately earning their spots as finalists. Their selection as finalists from Kaua‘i and subsequent win at the international event in Houston is a testament to their dedication, passion, and hard work in the field of robotics.
### Inspiring the Next Generation: Alvarez and Binonwangan’s Impact on STEM Education
Alvarez and Binonwangan’s success in robotics has not only brought recognition to Kaua‘i but has also inspired other youths on the island to get involved in STEM education. Binonwangan, who leads multiple robotics teams and is involved in community outreach programs, emphasizes the importance of robotics in building technical skills and fostering global connections. Alvarez, as one of the few girls on the mechanical team, advocates for more female participation in robotics, highlighting the opportunities for hands-on learning and international collaboration.
### Looking Towards the Future: Career Aspirations and Continued Engagement
Both Alvarez and Binonwangan have ambitious career goals in the field of STEM. Binonwangan aims to pursue a career as an electrical or software engineer, leveraging his robotics experience to build a strong foundation for college and future opportunities. Alvarez, with her passion for aerospace engineering, credits her experiences in FIRST Robotics for inspiring and guiding her towards her career goals. Their dedication to STEM education and commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators showcase the impact of programs like FIRST on shaping future leaders in the field.
In conclusion, the achievements of Joveline Alice F. Alvarez and Martian Binonwangan Jr. at the FIRST Championships serve as a testament to their leadership, dedication, and passion for robotics and STEM education. Their success not only highlights the talent and potential of students from Kaua‘i but also underscores the importance of programs like FIRST in nurturing the next generation of innovators and leaders in the field. As they continue to inspire and make a difference in their community and beyond, Alvarez and Binonwangan are shining examples of the impact of STEM education on shaping a brighter future for all.