June 8–12, 2026 | Rochester, New York

Representing Minnesota at the 2026 GENIUS Olympiad: Earning an International Bronze Medal

This June, I had the incredible opportunity to represent Minnesota and the United States at the 2026 GENIUS Olympiad in Rochester, New York. As the founder of Earth on Us and a rising senior from Woodbury, Minnesota, I was honored to participate in one of the world’s largest international high school environment project competitions for high school students.

The GENIUS Olympiad brought together 965 finalists out of 5206 students from 79 countries and 37 U.S. states to share ideas and solutions for some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. After five days of research project presentations, cultural exchange, educational activities, and judging, I was honored to receive a Science Bronze Medal for my research project examining the association between PFAS contamination in drinking water and cognitive disability prevalence across U.S. counties.

A Minnesota Project on a Global Stage

My research was inspired by an environmental challenge close to home. Communities in Minnesota’s East Metro, including Woodbury, Oakdale, and Cottage Grove, have faced concerns about PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” contaminating groundwater and drinking water supplies.

Using publicly available data from the EPA, CDC, and U.S. Census Bureau, I conducted a county-level analysis to explore whether PFAS exposure may be associated with increased rates of cognitive disability. My project combined environmental science, data science, epidemiology, geographic information systems (GIS), and statistical modeling to investigate potential nationwide patterns.

Presenting this research on an international stage was both exciting and meaningful. It allowed me to share how environmental contamination can affect not only ecosystems but also human health and community well-being.

Meeting Students from Around the World

One of the most memorable aspects of the GENIUS Olympiad was the opportunity to connect with students from around the globe.

Throughout the week, I met students representing countries across six continents. We exchanged ideas about environmental challenges in our communities, discussed our research projects, and learned about one another’s cultures. Through cultural activities, informal conversations, and social events, I formed friendships that extended far beyond the competition itself.

These conversations reinforced an important lesson for me: although environmental challenges may look different from country to country, young people everywhere share many of the same goals: clean water, healthy communities, sustainable development, and a better future.

Learning Beyond the Competition

GENIUS Olympiad was about much more than project judging. Participants also had opportunities to explore local attractions and learn about higher education pathways in science, engineering, environmental studies, and research.

One highlight of the week was visiting Niagara Falls. Standing beside one of North America’s most iconic natural landmarks was an unforgettable experience. The immense power and beauty of the falls served as a reminder of why environmental stewardship matters and why protecting our natural resources is so important for future generations.

Recognition for Environmental Research

Receiving a Science Bronze Medal at the awards ceremony was certainly a proud moment. However, what I value most about GENIUS Olympiad goes beyond the medal itself.

The most rewarding part of the experience was meeting students from around the world who are passionate about solving environmental problems. It was inspiring to see how many young people are using science, technology, creativity, and leadership to make a positive impact in their communities.

Bringing the Experience Back to Minnesota

My experience at GENIUS Olympiad connects closely with the mission of Earth on Us, the youth-led environmental education initiative I founded to help students turn environmental awareness into action through simple daily habits, hands-on learning and beyond.

The ideas, perspectives, and connections I gained during the week will help strengthen Earth on Us as we continue expanding environmental education programs through schools, 4-H clubs, youth organizations, and community partners.

Representing Minnesota on an international stage was both an honor and a reminder that local actions can have global impact. Whether addressing PFAS contamination, reducing waste, conserving energy, or promoting environmental literacy, meaningful change often begins within our own communities.

Looking Ahead

As Earth on Us continues to grow, I hope to build on the momentum from GENIUS Olympiad by expanding environmental education opportunities for youth and encouraging more students to engage in research, leadership, and community action.

My week in Rochester demonstrated what is possible when young people from around the world come together with a shared purpose: creating innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.

I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Minnesota at the 2026 GENIUS Olympiad and excited to continue applying what I learned to strengthen Earth on Us and support environmental action in our communities.

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