When I first heard about OpenAg I was floored. Open-source programs were all fine and good, but the concept of open-source food was mesmerizing. I jumped at the opportunity to help start an OpenAg initiative at my school. Computer science, controls engineering, plant science, and a reduced human footprint—what better outlet could a young boy with a budding interest in science ask for?

OpenAg was my first real foray into science. From abusing duct tape (is that even possible?) to frantic snow storm preparations, every step brought with it a new lesson. Some I knew I’d have to learn—a thousand ways not to build a circuit, for instance—but others were more unexpected. I learned that science is messy. That science is stressful. That science is heartbreaking. That science is gratifying. That science is fun. And OpenAg showed me that is exactly how I learn best.