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Check our interview with fashion model, girl power advocate & scientist Autumn Greco.
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Hi Autumn, please tell us little about you?
I am a teen scientist, model, blogger, and writer. I received a stipend to conduct acute myeloid leukemia research from the National Cancer Institute and a research sponsorship from L’Oreal to develop biochemistry lab techniques from a previous L’Oreal For Women in Science postdoctoral fellow. I founded scistrut.com , a science and fashion blog to combine my interests on a single platform and encourage girls to explore STEM careers. Writing for my own blog has enabled me to expand to other publications too!
How did you get started into modeling?
When I was eight years old I started begging my mom to submit my photos into modeling agencies. I dreamed of being a model and an actress. My persistence paid off and I signed with Wilhelmina Models in New York at nine years old.
What did your parents first think of you being a model?
My parents thought modeling was a great way for me to develop professionalism and learn to accept rejection. My parents were glad that I was happy modeling and saving money for college!
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Now tell us about your love for science and your blog Scistrut?
I am in love with science for its limitless possibility for discovery. The opportunities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are endless and the ability to share my passion with individuals all over the world is super exciting. SciStrut is a fashion and STEM blog I created to share my love for fashion and science on a single, digital platform while empowering girls across the globe to pursue STEM.
Where did you get the interest in inspiring girls to embrace STEM and embrace their passions?
It all started after attending the L’Oreal For Women in Science ceremony in 2014. I was shocked to discover that only 28% of women occupy STEM careers and I wanted to join the movement to break the gender barrier.
Where people can find more about what you are doing?
People can subscribe to my blog and follow me on social media, @autumngreco on Instagram and @autumngreco_ on Twitter.
How’s a typical day in your life?
A typical day would entail a full-day of school and an exciting mix of extracurriculars and research. I take 5 AP classes and often spend a minimum of three hours per night studying or doing homework. After school, I have track practice or head to work where I am currently researching a clinical trial and co-authoring for a type of retina disease. No two days are alike, and that’s what I love about balancing my interests. Two days ago, I was learning how to build chrome extensions at Google and then walked down the street to Milk Studios to cover a fashion show.
What are your fashion and beauty essentials?
My current fashion essentials are zip-up booties and a cool bucket bag. My beauty essentials include my favorite L’Oreal Paris gloss in Violet Attitude and bronzing powder.
What is your fashion obsession of the moment?
Suede fringe! I love seeing fringe on backpacks and jackets. Fringe is a street style favorite! I’m also obsessed with patches since they are such a fun way to present your personality and interests.
How would you describe your style?
My style is always changing. I love modern minimalist looks but at the same time, I love unique patterns and fabrics. If I had to classify my style in three words it would be bold, preppy, and urban.
What do you do to stay fit?
I’m on my school’s track and field team so my workouts are seamlessly built into my schedule. I love going to yoga classes too, my new favorite is Y7 Yoga.
Who is your role model?
My role models are my two summer research mentors who are both incredibly inspiring women in scientific research. I greatly admire their innovation and willingness to share their skills with the next generation of scientists.
If you were sent to a desert island, what three things would you take with you?
A boat to get off of the island, a knife, and a satellite phone.
Who are some of your favorite models and designers, and why?
My favorite models are Gigi Hadid, Cindy Bruna, and Karlie Kloss. I love their vibrant energy and social media presence. My favorite designer is Rebecca Minkoff she’s a major #girlboss and I love her wearable tech collection.
What do you like to watch on tv?
I love watching Law & Order: SVU, Grey’s Anatomy, and Chicago Med.
Any future plans you want to share with us?
I will be attending Stanford University in the fall!
Do you support any charity?
As a “girls in STEM” advocate, I am determined to encourage more girls to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. My goal is to reduce gender barriers in education. Girls education is not only a priority for UNICEF’s sustainability goals, but extremely important for advancing society. I have been recently selected as a Girl Rising regional ambassador and I will begin to write blog posts about girls education in developing nations. I am also an active supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I serve as the Co-Marketing Chair for the young professionals committee and I help organize fundraising events for the organization.
What do you think of Social Media?
I love social media! Social media has been a gateway for so many incredible opportunities. I was selected to attend the L’Oreal For Women in Science Ceremony after reading a Facebook post and that experience propelled me to create my blog and conduct independent scientific research.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram @autumngreco
Twitter @autumngreco_
You can also subscribe to my blog, scistrut.com!
Favorite food: Sushi
Travel destination: Miami
Celebrity Crush: Anwar Hadid
Restaurant: Buddakan NYC
Actor/Actress: Mariska Hargitay
Quote: “I am just a girl who wishes for the world.”- Marilyn Monroe
Book: Room by Emma Donoghue
Movie: My Sister’s Keeper
Drink: Starbucks Caramel Macchiato
Sports Team: Stanford Football Team[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]
Photo Credit: James Bartolozzi
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