Growing up in Rough Rock, Ariz., Nizhoni Tallas, Navajo, spent a great deal of time exploring the outdoors. It was there, in her rural community, where she first became interested in the field of environmental science. “My brothers and I would hike the mesa and the canyon right in our backyard,” says Tallas. “I fell in love with the diversity of plants, rocks, and the smell of fresh air. From that point on, I knew I wanted to learn more about the environment and how I can protect it now and for future generations.”
Tallas considers Rough Rock to be a peaceful, secluded place and a refuge from crowded cities and towns. She loves that she can see the stars at night and hear animals during the day, rather than a cacophony of urban noises like honking cars. “The sunset is breathtaking, especially when you catch it at the right time,” she says. “It’s a beautiful place where I call home.”
Tallas is the youngest and only daughter in a large family — she grew up with five older brothers, her mother, and her father. Growing up in a home without running water was challenging, but it made Tallas aware early on of the sacredness of natural resources.
Despite financial struggles, her parents have always been extremely supportive, and she says her family has played a major role in helping to formulate her goals. “My family continues to support me in my endeavors and everything I plan to do in the future,” Tallas says. She also notes that her teachers and her spiritual grounding have helped her along her journey. Through the encouragement of her parents and teachers, she has been able to step outside her comfort zone and have experiences that will help shape her future.
A senior at Navajo Preparatory School, Tallas has taken advantage of opportunities to explore a number of possible career paths. As a member of AISES since her freshman year, she has participated in various science competitions and other events within the STEM fields. “It allows me to represent my Navajo culture proudly in whatever career path I choose,” she says of her AISES affiliation. Through her involvement in clubs and activities related to the sciences, she gained new skills and formulated a concrete goal for her academic future.
After high school, Tallas plans to pursue a degree in environmental science and become a researcher. Colleges she is currently considering include the University of Virginia, Washington and Lee University, Christopher Newport University, Virginia Tech, and Virginia Wesleyan College.
“I want to explore the world and see what it offers,” she says, “and to use my skills to help the environment in different regions and make a positive impact on other lives.” Her ultimate hope is that once she gains enough experience, she will one day return to her community and help her people with their environmental issues.
“I also want to spread the Gospel to people around the world and to those in my community, because without God I wouldn’t be the person I am today,” she adds. Tallas doesn’t just talk about giving back — she’s actively working toward a better future for herself and those around her.
Since her freshman year at Navajo Prep, Tallas has been creating science fair projects. Most of these projects focus on engineering and solar energy, either to produce electricity or to heat water for general use. Tallas recently completed a science project titled “Thin-Panel, Cylinder-Arrayed, Solar Water Heater.” Based on her results, she says, “It was able to heat up water, which was pretty awesome because something I built actually works!”
In addition to her family, Tallas has her perseverance and strength to thank for getting her this far and allowing her to succeed. “No matter how many times I fail, I never give up,” she says. “Being positive and having faith has allowed me to go through adversities and come out stronger than before.”
Tallas has wise advice for other high school students who hope to go to college. “Don’t ever let your circumstances stop you from succeeding,” she says. “When life gets tough, remember all those people who believe in you. Don’t forget about your passions and your life goals. Have faith and be hopeful in everything you do.”
