My Work
News & Features
This article explores the controversy surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies through a lawsuit accusing The New York Times of discriminating against a white male employee during a promotion process. By including perspectives from a legal expert, student, and teacher, the story examines the ongoing tension between diversity goals and merit-based opportunities in both workplaces and schools. It also shows how recent lawsuits and government actions are fueling broader debates about fairness, discrimination, and equal opportunity in the United States.
This article explores how “therapy speak” (mental health terms like “toxic,” “gaslighting,” and “trauma”) has become increasingly common among Gen Z through social media and everyday conversations. Through interviews with therapists and students, the piece reveals both the benefits and drawbacks of this trend, showing how greater mental health awareness can help people express their emotions while the misuse of clinical language can oversimplify conflicts and damage relationships. Ultimately, the article shows the importance of using mental health terminology thoughtfully and encouraging deeper self-reflection rather than relying on labels alone.
This article examines how funding cuts and changes to Medi-Cal are causing California hospitals to lay off workers despite ongoing staffing shortages. Through interviews with healthcare professionals, experts, and students interested in medicine, the story highlights concerns about patient care, emergency room overcrowding, nurse burnout, and access to healthcare. The piece explores how hospitals are struggling to balance financial pressures with the growing demand for medical services, raising questions about the future of California’s healthcare system.
.jpeg)
This article examines the spread of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a seasonal respiratory virus that has been detected at elevated levels across Northern California. Through interviews with medical experts and school health staff, the story explains how the virus spreads, who is most vulnerable to serious illness, and why the lack of a vaccine makes prevention especially important. The piece also highlights the role of schools and communities in reducing transmission through healthy habits such as staying home when sick, improving ventilation, and practicing good hygiene.
A healthcare company called ScopeAI is using AI to help street medicine teams provide care for people experiencing homelessness in the Bay Area. The technology helps outreach workers gather medical information and suggest possible diagnoses, allowing doctors to treat patients more quickly and reach more people. While many experts believe AI can improve access to healthcare and help address provider shortages, others are concerned that it cannot replace the human connection that is so important in medicine. Overall, the article shows that AI can be a useful tool for healthcare, but compassion, trust, and face-to-face interaction are still essential for patient care.
This article examines how cultural stigma and academic pressure shape mental health attitudes among Korean and other Asian immigrant communities at Carlmont. Through interviews with students, mental health professionals, counselors, and a Korean doctor, the piece explores how values such as family reputation, endurance, and academic success can discourage people from seeking help. It also discusses the impact of South Korea’s highly competitive education system, the challenges immigrant students face, and the efforts schools are making to provide culturally inclusive mental health support while reducing stigma around therapy.
December 2025
Health officials warn of a deeper public health risk as measles reappears in San Mateo County
This article examines the reemergence of measles in San Mateo County and across the United States, exploring how declining vaccination rates, vaccine misinformation, and changing public health policies are increasing the risk of outbreaks. Through interviews with epidemiologists, physicians, public health officials, and students, the piece discusses the importance of herd immunity, the dangers of measles, and the role of vaccines in preventing disease. It also highlights concerns about public trust in health institutions and how communities can combat misinformation to protect public health.
This article explores how indie games are becoming powerful tools for education, creativity, and storytelling through a student-focused session at IndieCade Horizons. Through interviews with game designers, developers, and educators, the piece examines how game design helps students build skills such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and empathy. It also highlights how indie creators use games to tell meaningful stories, process personal experiences, and inspire young people to see game design as both an art form and a potential career path.
November 2025
National Teen Driver Safety Week highlights risks on the road amid California’s ‘No-Touch’ Law
This article examines the dangers of distracted driving among teenagers during National Teen Driver Safety Week, with a focus on California’s new “No-Touch” Cell Phone Law. Through interviews with law enforcement officers, researchers, and student drivers, the piece explores how cellphone use, inexperience, and peer influence contribute to crashes among young drivers. It also discusses the role of education programs, community partnerships, and traffic safety policies in reducing distracted driving and promoting safer habits on the road.
This article explores the potential impact of a proposed agreement between the Trump administration and Pfizer to lower prescription drug prices for Medicaid patients. Through interviews with a health policy expert, a local pharmacist, and a student who relies on medication, the story examines whether the promised discounts will lead to meaningful savings for patients and families.
_edited.jpg)
This article examines how the cost of extracurricular activities can limit opportunities for students at Carlmont. Through interviews with students, educators, and equity experts, it highlights how expenses such as sports fees, art supplies, travel, and AP exams can prevent students from participating in activities that build skills, confidence, and belonging. While Carlmont and the Sequoia Union High School District offer financial support programs, students and experts say hidden costs and unequal access continue to create barriers, raising broader questions about educational equity and opportunity.
May 2025
Fighting for a better future: the DEI gap in climate policy
This article explores the disconnect between climate policy and the real-world impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities in San Mateo County. Through interviews with local environmental advocates and officials, the piece shows the urgent need for more equitable and inclusive environmental planning, especially for low-income and BIPOC residents who are disproportionately affected.
April 2025
UC Berkeley rallies to defend higher education and DEI Initiatives
This article examines the surge in antisemitic incidents on college campuses following the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The article shows how universities, including UC Berkeley, are facing federal scrutiny for their responses to these incidents. It talks about the Trump administration's increased efforts to fight campus antisemitism, which include potential lawsuits against institutions that fail to protect Jewish students and staff. The piece shows the tension between safeguarding free speech and ensuring campus safety in the face of rising hate crimes.
April 2025
Doodles to dollars: the fight to make art a career
This feature explores the financial challenges artists face and how passion can drive them forward. The article follows Carlmont High School sophomore Michelle Peng, who dreams of turning her love for art into a sustainable career. Despite the uncertainty and low pay often associated with creative fields, Peng remains determined to pursue digital art, illustration, and design. With support from her family, she plans to combine multiple creative paths to make her passion viable. The piece also features insights from professional artists and educators, highlighting the emotional and economic realities of the art world and the resilience needed to thrive in it.
This feature examines the surge in antisemitic incidents on college campuses following the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The article shows how universities, including UC Berkeley, are facing federal scrutiny for their responses to these incidents. It talks about the Trump administration's increased efforts to fight campus antisemitism, which include potential lawsuits against institutions that fail to protect Jewish students and staff. The piece shows the tension between safeguarding free speech and ensuring campus safety in the face of rising hate crimes.
Every March, millions in the U.S. observe Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) to promote inclusion and recognize the contributions of people with developmental disabilities. In 2025, the campaign theme “We’re Here All Year” encouraged year-round appreciation. Events nationwide helped raise awareness, including at Carlmont High School, with staff like behavior analyst Mo Ying Tsui highlighting its importance. Carlmont High School students with developmental disabilities shared their stories and personal experiences. This article shows how awareness can lead to greater understanding, inclusion, and empowerment on campus.
Rising travel costs are limiting students' opportunities for educational and personal growth. With increasing expenses for flights, accommodations, and daily necessities, many students find it challenging to afford study abroad programs or even local trips. These financial barriers can prevent students from gaining valuable life experiences and cultural exposure. The article shows the need for more accessible travel options and financial support to ensure all students can benefit from these enriching opportunities.
Vivace Ristorante, located in Belmont, California, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy authentic Northern Italian cuisine. Known for its exceptional service and flavorful dishes, Vivace has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant's resilience during the pandemic, including adapting to outdoor dining, showcased its commitment to the community. With a menu featuring traditional favorites like Fettuccine Alfredo and a selection of fine wines, Vivace continues to be a place where people come together to share meals and create lasting memories.
This article explores how foodborne illnesses can cause serious health risks and widespread consequences. It highlights common causes, such as poor food handling and contamination, and emphasizes the importance of food safety practices to protect public health and prevent outbreaks.
November 2024
Phone apps stimulate lucid dreaming
This article explores how phone apps are helping users achieve lucid dreaming—when a person becomes aware they’re dreaming and can sometimes control the dream. By using sound cues, sleep tracking, and dream journaling, these apps tap into neuroscience by targeting brain activity during REM sleep. Researchers believe this technology could have medical potential, offering new ways to treat conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and sleep disorders through dream control and self-awareness.
October 2024
Tree-devouring beetles threaten Bay Area wildlife
This article discusses how invasive beetles are destroying trees across the Bay Area, putting local ecosystems at risk. As these beetles kill native trees, they disrupt habitats for birds and other wildlife, contributing to biodiversity loss. The issue highlights a larger environmental concern: how invasive species and climate change together can damage ecosystems and weaken natural defenses.