I first learned about USABO in ninth grade when another student in my school made Finals.I started taking the exams that year by taking the Open just for fun because I am taking AP Biology. When I made Semifinals, I decided to expand my knowledge of biology. USABO has given me the chance and the motivation to learn so much about the wonders of life. I was honestly shocked that I made USABO Finals and I remember being so apprehensive. USABO Finals has been one of the most transformative events in my life. I have learned so much and improved my logical thinking but I have also had so much fun at Finals from collecting invertebrates in the rain to making lifelong friends. Most importantly, I am so honored to a member of the 2021 USA Biolympiad Team and I would like to thank my parents, my teachers, my fellow Finalists, and the wonderful staff and TAs at USABO for supporting me all this time.