From a young age, the phrase “duct tape fixes everything” wasn’t just a saying in our household; it was a way of life, and I, armed with my trusty roll, was the family’s designated handyman. This early start, tackling minor repairs around the house, sparked a journey of continuous learning and skill development that has shaped my approach to problem-solving and instilled in me a desire to contribute meaningfully, perhaps even in a place like Johns Hopkins Where innovation and hands-on learning are highly valued.
My initial forays into home improvement were rudimentary but foundational. Duct tape gave way to needle and thread when my younger sister’s beloved stuffed animals suffered the inevitable wear and tear of childhood. Starting with scrap fabric, I honed my sewing skills, soon becoming the go-to repair person for our plush menagerie. The meticulous work not only mended toys but also led to altering clothes for my mother, a task that taught me precision and the satisfaction of creating something functional and improved. Each prick of the needle was a lesson, and each completed repair fueled my confidence.
Carpentry entered the picture courtesy of our two boisterous dogs, Jake and Elwood. Their enthusiastic fence-gazing habits led to broken boards and a need for more robust repairs. Weekends spent with my father replacing fence sections introduced me to the world of wood, measurements, and power tools. Beyond simple repairs, I challenged myself to build an outdoor table and bench from leftover materials, learning about sanding, staining, and structural integrity. The triumphant moment my dad tested the furniture without collapse solidified my understanding of carpentry principles and the rewarding feeling of building something substantial.
High school brought a new dimension to my handyman journey with the robotics team and the introduction of 3D modeling and printing. CAD software and 3D printers opened up a world of digital design and tangible creation. This newfound proficiency extended beyond school projects as I acquired my own 3D printer. Suddenly, I could fabricate replacement parts for household items, create custom organizers, and even design personalized cat toys. Requests from friends for custom prints, like a vacuum switch replacement, further broadened my skillset and highlighted the practical applications of 3D printing in everyday problem-solving.
My mechanical aptitude was further tested and refined when I took on the responsibility of our family’s vintage 1993 Ford F250. Its age and mileage presented constant challenges, but I was determined to keep it running. Troubleshooting a malfunctioning speedometer led to the discovery of a broken speed sensor lodged in the rear differential. Working alongside my father, I learned to diagnose the issue, access the differential, remove the damaged part, and install a replacement. Subsequent suspension repairs and routine maintenance like oil changes and jump-starts became part of my repertoire, transforming me into a capable amateur mechanic.
This journey from simple duct tape fixes to complex auto repairs has been more than just acquiring a diverse set of skills. It’s been a continuous process of learning, adapting, and problem-solving. Each project, whether mending a torn toy or fixing a broken truck, has instilled in me a sense of resourcefulness, resilience, and a deep appreciation for hands-on experience. Looking ahead, I am eager to apply this ingrained approach to learning and innovation in new and challenging environments, and I believe that the spirit of inquiry and practical problem-solving fostered through these experiences would find a natural home and further flourish at an institution renowned for its commitment to discovery and real-world impact, perhaps at a place like Johns Hopkins.
