Sophia Benavente-Sayani

Sophia Benavente-Sayani has a diverse range of work experiences. Sophia has served as an Engineer Girl Ambassador for the National Academy of Engineering, where they have been selected as one of the nation's ambassadors. Sophia has also worked as a Research Scholar at the Governor's STEM Scholars program, focusing on investigating disinformation through quantitative methods. Additionally, they have participated in the ExPAND Pre-Apprenticeship Program offered by the New Jersey Department of Education, which prepares students for employment opportunities. Sophia has held multiple leadership roles within the Junior State of America Foundation, including Director of Activism, Chief of Staff, and President. Sophia has interned as a Finance, Accounting, and Data Management Intern at Aptean, where they gained experience in various back-office processes. Sophia has been a guest speaker and conference presenter at the Intrepid Museum Youth Summit, addressing topics such as social justice, gender equality, and women in STEM. Sophia has also worked as an Assistant Librarian at the Secaucus Public Library and is the Founder and President of the Girl Up chapter at their school. Additionally, Sophia founded and is the Official Facilitator/Teacher of a Girls Who Code Club in their hometown, where they teach computer programming to underrepresented groups. Sophia has achieved significant recognition for their scientific achievements, winning multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals at regional science fairs and receiving nominations and awards from various organizations.

Sophia Benavente-Sayani's education history begins in 2016 when they attended Secaucus Middle School and obtained their Middle School Diploma in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. Following this, they enrolled at High Tech High School in 2019 and is expected to graduate in 2023 with a High School Diploma. At High Tech High School, they specialized in Computer Science as part of the Design and Fabrication Academy.

In addition to their high school education, Sophia attended the Hudson County Community College from 2019 to 2023 and earned an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Environmental Science and Engineering.

Furthering their education, Sophia participated in the Future of the Space Technology Economy Immersion Program at the Columbia University School of Professional Studies in 2021. Sophia obtained a certificate for completing the program, which focused on Business, Economics, and Entrepreneurship.

While their education path has been impressive thus far, Sophia also obtained various certifications. Sophia was awarded the College Board National Hispanic Recognition Award for Excellence in Academic Achievement in 2022-2023, demonstrating their academic excellence. Additionally, they received a certificate from Columbia University for completing the Future of the Space Technology Economy Program in 2021. Sophia also holds a Young Women's Leadership Certificate from the JSA Pre-College Women's Leadership Institute for High School Students, which they obtained in 2020. Lastly, they were recognized as a Broadcom MASTERS® Nominee Winner by the Society for Science in 2019, placing their among the top 10% of participants in the Regional Science Fair & STEM Showcase.

As of now, Sophia's education journey includes completing their high school diploma, an associate degree, and participating in specialized programs to broaden their knowledge and skills. While it is unclear if they have enrolled or completed any further education at New Jersey City University, they have shown a strong commitment and dedication to their academic pursuits.