Westview High School junior Brooklynn is many things—drill team captain, editor of the school newspaper and a proud student ambassador, just to name a few. But beyond her impressive list of leadership roles, Brooklynn is determined to carve a path toward a brighter, greener future for herself and for the community she loves.
Discovering her path in science
Brooklynn’s ambitions are rooted in deep curiosity and a lifelong love of the natural world. “Growing up, I was always looking out for animals and bugs,” she says. That childhood wonder sparked an interest in science that didn’t fully blossom until she switched from Westview’s business pathway to a more hands-on sustainability track. “You only get to change your pathway once,” Brooklynn explains. “But when I shadowed the class, I just knew. I loved it.”
Now, she’s considering majors like environmental science, sustainability, and biology as she sets her sights on a four-year university. Though she’s still narrowing down her career path, one thing is certain: she wants to work outdoors, with plants and with people. “Knowledge is power,” she says. “I want to share what I learn with my community.”
Brooklynn’s desire to give back is tied to a deep respect for education, something her mother instilled in her from a young age. “My mom was my biggest role model,” she says. “She had her master’s degree, and I always looked up to her.” Her mother passed away when Brooklynn was 13, but her passion for education remains. “To get a college degree would mean a sense of fulfillment. It’s something I’ve wanted since I was little.”
Finding guidance through College Possible
College Possible became a part of Brooklynn’s journey during her sophomore year, when she stopped by an information table at lunch. “I knew I wanted to go to college, but I didn’t have a mentor. I was completely lost,” she says. “I thought scholarships were just for seniors or only for things like the Susan Thompson Buffett Scholarship.” That quickly changed.
The Dollars for Scholars event was a huge turning point for me,” she reflects. “It made me realize how many resources are out there. Now, I feel so confident, and I know I can contact my coach whenever I need help.”
Her coach is currently supporting her in applying for an internship with No More Empty Pots, a nonprofit focused on food and sustainability—an organization whose mission aligns with Brooklynn’s goals and values.
A vision for her community
Brooklynn’s long-term dream is to become a community organizer focused on the environment, specifically in North Omaha, where she sees both need and opportunity. “I’m originally from North Omaha, which is known as a food desert,” she explains. “I want to help people grow their own gardens and access fresh produce.”
For Brooklynn, science is more than a subject, it’s a vehicle for health and empowerment. And thanks to her own drive, her mother’s legacy, and the guidance of College Possible, she’s on her way to turning that vision into a plan. “This is about more than me,” she says. “It’s about serving my community.”
