Mahaela Sleeper (She/Her) lives on the Suncoast of Florida. She is a junior at Citrus High School and a freshman at the College of Central florida. While she has had many interests and passions, science has always been the end-goal. She is currently working towards graduating High School with her associates in biology, but plans on later majoring in zoology and genetics. Mahaela is particularly interested in studying genetics in relation to the conservation of endangered keystone species. When her nose is not buried in a book, Mahaela can be found acting on the stage, playing in band, hanging with friends, and taking care of her bird Hamlet. She attended WYSE 2023 as a student and is honored to continue to keep in contact with the community.