Engineering a Brighter Future for Communities through Medical Advances & Energy Efficiency
Scholarship Winners: David Nguyen, Tobious Sherwin, Mariah Duncan
David Nguyen
Helping the Community by Finding Ways to Reduce Energy Dependence
David Nguyen brings tremendous enthusiasm to his study of physics at LSU, working toward the ultimate goal of helping the community by contributing to an energy-efficient infrastructure to reduce energy use.
“I want to have a fundamental impact on the community,” says David, a thoughtful and industrious student who graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies in Gretna. “When I was a teenager, I wanted to learn more about how every miniscule or insignificant mechanism works in the world,” he explains. “This curiosity led me to choose general physics as my major. … Eventually I began conducting research in material science by studying the superconductivity of high entropy alloys doped with similar transition materials.”
David shares The 431 Exchange’s commitment to helping others. His desire to serve compelled him to log 300 hours of volunteer work while in high school, helping organizations such as The Boys and Girls Club and the local Food Pantry. “I simply enjoy helping others,” he says. “Nonprofit foundations have always inspired me for the hospitality, commitment and altruism they display.”
Tobious Sherwin
Striving to Improve and Serve through Engineering
As a child, Tobious Sherwin had the unique experience of attending college classes with his dad who was working to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and eventually became a nuclear specialist in the U.S. Army.
“He made the brave decision to pursue his bachelor’s degree at the age of 38,” he shares. “He graduated at 43, demonstrating the profound value of education and encouraging me in my academic journey.” Tobious’ parents enrolled him in STEM camps, further sparking his interest in engineering. His father designed innovative design projects for the community and helped others, especially the elderly, inspiring Tobious to “always strive to improve and serve.” His mother, who immigrated to the U.S. from Belarus, instilled the value of hard work and perseverance.
A graduate of Central High School in Baton Rouge, he is now working toward an associate’s degree in engineering at Baton Rouge Community College, with plans to transfer to LSU. He works as a crawfish hunter for a seafood company and also does computer coding and 3D printing.
Tobious appreciates The 431 Exchange’s commitment to helping students complete their education. “As Americans, we have tremendous opportunities that our ancestors and children of other nations can scarcely imagine. I believe all students can achieve their dreams with the right resources and support, just as I am on the cusp of realizing mine.”
Mariah Duncan
Developing Technology to Improve the Lives of People with Disabilities
Mariah Duncan’s passion for biomedical engineering was inspired by her resilient 93-year-old grandmother, whom she describes as “the strongest woman I know” even as she faced healthcare challenges.
“Despite the mental toll of losing her leg, she continues to fight. Her strength, love and wisdom motivate me to pursue my dream and make a difference in the lives of others,” Mariah shares.
A graduate of Abramson Sci Academy in New Orleans, Mariah is an optimistic and civic-minded leader who is involved in youth advocacy to help students learn to advocate for themselves. She is working toward a bachelor of civil engineering degree at the University of New Orleans, and plans to pursue biomedical engineering to develop assistive technology that helps restore mobility and improve the lives of people with disabilities. She is drawn to biomedical engineering’s “ability to combine biology, engineering and technology to solve real-world problems.” She hopes to develop technology and devices to make an impact on healthcare and contribute to advances in her field.
Mariah finds The 431 Exchange’s dedication to providing opportunities for growth inspiring. “It motivates me to use my skills to make a meaningful impact on my community.”