City you live in: Chapel Hill, NC

If there was a theme song in your life, it would be: Ambling Alp by Yeasayer

What is the best advice you can give to kids who want to do what u do: Follow your passion – don’t let others discourage you. Even though it’s not all fun and games, you’ll be so glad you did! You’ll get a lot of advice along the way, sometimes from places you wouldn’t expect. It really can be overwhelming, but take it with a grain of salt because in the end, it’s your decision and your idea/business. I know this sounds cheesy and everyone says it, but you really do have to fail to succeed. Some of the best lessons I’ve learned have come from “failures” – I wasn’t happy in the moment, but looking back, I wouldn’t be where I am without some of them.

What is your favorite quote that keeps you motivated? “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close to success they were when they gave up” – Thomas Edison and “As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others” -Bill Gates

What do you think is the key to being a successful scientist/entrepreneur: Keep in mind that nothing happens overnight, and fame or money isn’t a good way to measure success.