Melissa, a 2007 graduate of Southside High School in Rockville Centre, now thrives as a staff scientist at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado. Back in high school, she had little idea of what it took to become a scientist and found herself struggling with chemistry—a cornerstone of her current career. Melissa’s journey is a compelling testament to the power of perseverance and the drive to turn dreams into reality, proving that determination can turn even the most challenging obstacles into steppingstones for success.