From Curiosity to Community: A Student’s Journey to Launching Bioshore

From Curiosity to Community: A Student’s Journey to Launching Bioshore

Cherokee Trail High School junior Hemani Dasari is creating hands-on science opportunities for younger learners by helping them explore, experiment, and discover a love for STEM in a way that feels engaging and accessible. As the founder of Bioshore, Dasari is excited to spark a love of science for learners of all ages.

What inspired you to start Bioshore?
Growing up, I never really had a favorite subject, and I definitely didn’t think it would be science!
That changed in my ninth-grade biology class. My teacher approached science in a much more hands-on way, and for the first time, I felt like I could really engage with it. It shifted my mindset and helped me realize that it’s okay to change your perspective when you’re given the right opportunity.

I also started thinking about how science doesn’t always get the same attention as subjects like math or English, even though so many careers today are STEM-related. I wanted to create something that could help students experience science in a way that makes them excited about it.

What is Bioshore, and what does your summer camp look like?
Bioshore is a summer camp where students can explore science by creating their own experiments and learning from their own perspective. Last year, we welcomed about 30 students, primarily incoming fifth through ninth graders, and we’re expanding this year to include even younger students. Each day focuses on a different area of science like biology, chemistry, or physics.

For example, students built their own models of viruses using craft materials and then explained how they worked and what symptoms they might cause. On another day, campers created lava lamps while learning chemistry concepts, and we even had physics challenges where students designed and tested paper airplanes. It’s very interactive and student-driven. We want them to feel like scientists, not just learners.

How did you come up with the name “Bioshore”?
That actually took a long time! I knew I wanted something that connected to biology or science, but nothing felt quite right. Then my younger sister suggested “Bioshore,” and it just clicked. The idea of a “shore” felt like bringing people together, like a meeting place for ideas and community.

What did you learn from planning and running the camp?
One of the biggest things I learned is that students really need time to explore. We originally planned a lot of activities each day, but we realized that it takes time for students to process, get comfortable, and fully engage. This year, we’re focusing on fewer activities so students can go deeper and enjoy the experience more.

I also learned how important small groups are. At first, some students were shy, but once we divided them into teams and introduced activities like Kahoots, they started to open up and build connections. By the end, those groups felt like real communities.

On a practical level, I learned a lot about logistics. From setting up accounts, organizing volunteers, finding a venue, and managing unexpected challenges, there were definitely moments that were stressful, but we always found a way through.

What was your favorite moment from the camp?
The last day was my favorite! We did a science-themed “mystery” activity where students had to figure out what illness someone had based on their symptoms. Everyone got really into it - there was music, teamwork, and a lot of excitement.

At the end, we handed out certificates, and it was a really emotional moment. You could tell that students didn’t want it to end. Seeing how much they had connected with each other and with the experience was really powerful.

What have you learned about yourself through this experience?
This was my first time building something from scratch, and it’s helped me grow in so many ways.
I’ve become more confident in stepping outside my comfort zone and putting myself in new situations. I’ve also learned how to ask for help, communicate with different people, and turn ideas into something real.

More than anything, I’ve realized that this is bigger than me. I have friends who want to continue this work after I graduate, and it feels like we’re building something that can last.

Why is this work important to you?
I believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. I want to help create more opportunities for students to explore their interests and figure out what they want to do. Programs like this can open doors and help students see possibilities they might not have considered before.

What advice would you give to other students who want to start something like this?
Start – even if you don’t feel ready. I didn’t have everything planned out when I began. I reached out to different organizations, looked for venues, and figured things out along the way. If you put yourself out there, things start to fall into place. You learn as you go, and that’s part of the process.

What’s next for Bioshore – and for you?
We’re planning to expand the camp this summer, with more students and more opportunities to explore different areas of science.

Beyond that, I’m thinking about how to grow this idea even further—possibly creating programs that help students access career guidance and mentorship, even beyond our local community. This experience has shown me what’s possible, and I’m excited to keep building from here.

As for me, I’m interested in working with international organizations to support students and expand access to education and career pathways.