AnnaRose Holder’s aspirations of pursuing higher education began at age ten when she opened a savings account for college. Then, during her teenage years, AnnaRose lost her 25-year-old sister to an intoxicated driver and her grandmother to cancer. By age 16, she felt an extreme loss of purpose and nearly gave up on her dreams.

AnnaRose persevered and graduated magna cum laude from California State University, Monterey Bay in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, technology and policy. She is now halfway through CSU Monterey Bay’s applied marine and watershed science graduate program. AnnaRose has dedicated her life to encouraging youth to become inspired by science. She is currently a mentor in the STE@M™ Mentoring Program, where she speaks to middle and high school girls who are interested in possible STEM careers.

Upon completing her master’s degree, AnnaRose plans on pursuing a Ph.D. and a career allowing her to contribute to and inform the management of marine resources.