Graduation Ahead

Closing out my high school career, I seek to continue my learning and passion of physical science, and applying that to help the environment we live in today

Education

Menlo Atherton High School, Atherton, CA

I-4 Trust Fund

GPA: 3.75 u/w; 3.9 Weighted

Class of 2026

Experience



Environmental Research - Mesoplastic Pollution                                                  Menlo Park, California

Researcher

May 2025- August 2025

  • Partnered with Ph.D. scientist Dr. Guangshou Yang to investigate the impact of community-led cleanups on mesoplastic pollution

  • Designed and implemented field data collection protocols; recruited and trained volunteer teams

  • Published a paper analyzing the benefits and correlation of removing mesoplastics from the environment and microplastic contamination

Deer Crossing Wilderness Camp   Eldorado National Forest, California

Leader in Training (LIT)

  June 2024 -  August 2024

  • Mentored children (ages 5 - 14) in outdoor skills, nature respect, and self-confidence through adventure-based learning

  • Led kayaking lessons; earned certifications in Lifeguarding, CPR, and oxygen administration

  • Studied neurolinguistics and Psychology 

  • Memorized the book “Influence” by Robert Cialdini

  • Completed a 3-day survival trek without food or water; trained a chicken to fetch

Private Piano instructor   Menlo Park, California

Teacher

October 2024 - Present

  • Teach beginner-level classical piano to students ages 6 - 13

  • Manage scheduling, transportation, and curriculum independently while balancing academics and sports

Skills

  • Proficient in Java

  • Lifeguard + CPR certified

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

  • Proficient in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and Framer.

  • Strong understanding of user-centered design principles.

  • Ability to conduct comprehensive user research and usability testing.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Projects

  • PUNT - Picking Up Neighborhood Trash
    Organized and led community cleanups to reduce litter and raise environmental awareness. Designed participant protocols, coordinated volunteers, and analyzed impact data to promote more sustainable, community-driven waste management.

  • Research Project: Mesoplastic pollution
    Investigated the presence and effects of mesoplastic pollution in suburban areas. Developed data collection methods, led fieldwork teams, and published findings to inform environmental policy and cleanup strategies.

Personal qualities

  • Creative and innovative thinker

  • Strong communicator, capable of effectively articulating research and actionable concepts.

  • Collaborative team player with a positive attitude.

  • Passionate about staying current with physical, technological, scientific, and environmental trends.

Interests

  • Playing Water Polo

  • Playing piano

  • Teaching - anything I know, I like to help people

  • Staying abreast of the latest trends in technology and design.

  • Learning, especially science and mathematical literature.

Get in touch

Lets talk projects, piano, research - learning.

Get in touch

Lets talk projects, piano, research - learning.

Get in touch

Lets talk projects, piano, research - learning.

Copyright 2025 by Zachary Quintana

Copyright 2025 by Zachary Quintana

Copyright 2025 by Zachary Quintana