Ava Thompson, a distinguished member of the CSI Track & Field Team and a Macaulay Honors student, is taking her achievements to new levels. This summer, she has made significant strides as a Research and Development Engineering intern at the New York Stem Cell Foundation.

During her 10-week internship, Thompson spearheaded a project that leveraged a Raspberry Pi and various external components to monitor environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and gas concentration. Her work involved putting to use a device capable of adjusting carbon dioxide and oxygen levels via a touchscreen interface, which played a crucial role in supporting an incubator used to convert skin blood cells into stem cells.

Thompson's project not only reinforced her decision to major in engineering but also highlighted her exceptional dedication and expertise. In an address to international visitors and speakers at the Stem Cell Foundation, she reflected on her experience.  "The skills and knowledge I have gained through this internship have been amazing," said Ava. "This will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career and personal life."

Throughout her internship, Thompson was driven by the diligence and  strong work ethic that have helped to make her one of CSI's highest-achieving student athletes. Specifically, she expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with a team of insightful and supportive professionals.  This parallels her experience during her time at CSI where the Track & Field coaching staff has helped elevate her to a place among the top student-athletes in the East Coast Conference.

Beyond her academic and research accomplishments, Thompson is a record-setting student-athlete with multiple ECC All-Conference selections. Notably, this past April, she set a record with a Discus throw of 34.83 meters. Her performance over the past three years has established her as a standout member of the team, a testament to her wide range of abilities.  Thompson has also exemplified what it means to be a complete student-athlete through her engagement with the community, intelligence, dedication and athleticism.  This leaves her with plenty to look forward to as she enters her senior season this year, both on the field and beyond the realm of intercollegiate competition.