Elisa is an inventive and creative student with a passion for scientific research. Back in middle school, she began carrying out her experiments at home, which resulted in a first place Air Force award at the International Science and Engineering Fair in 1999. Since then, she has received numerous distinguished honors, and worked at various prestigious research facilities. A recipient of the ?Best in Science Fair? award for two consecutive years, Elisa first conducted laboratory research at Miami Jackson Memorial Hospital in the area of gerontology. As a result of her work on osteoporosis, she was selected to speak with state legislators at the Florida Capitol Rotunda about issues affecting the elderly. She is currently conducting research at the University of Miami?s Molecular Biology Institute. Because she is equally passionate about her community, Elisa also is immersed in STARS, a community outreach program of the Miami Museum of Science. As a mentor and role model for middle school students at the museum, her goal is to infuse minority students with curiosity and enhance their teachers? curriculum. She worked on a science curriculum for Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters around the country aimed at encouraging members to participate more actively in the world of science.