Standford University is getting a real gem in Alexia.  She will be majoring in physics as an undergraduate to build a strong science foundation. Her aptitude for math and science has compelled her to study astrophysics, exploring the intersection of data and theory to make a difference in the field.  As a member of the STEM Academy program at Union High School, Alexia has mentored elementary students through the challenging years of COVID by making videos to excite them to learn more about the sciences. High school athletics were also on her plate as she has 6 varsity letters to her credit.  She was chosen ‘Most Valuable Player’ on the Union High School swim team. After being introduced to Taekwondo at age 3, she acquired her first black-belt in 2014, and began instructing shortly after that.  Alexia continues to volunteer her time refereeing at school tournaments.

In addition to all of that…. Alexia volunteered for the voice-over animations for the United States Geological Survey’s Pacific Northwest rollout of the Shake Alert Earthquake Early Warning System. She was uniquely suited for this work because they were looking for a high school aged voice for the video and she was able to record the narration in both English and Spanish.

Pearl will be attending Pepperdine University to pursue an undergraduate degree in biology with a focus on studying cell behavior during replication. Her motivation is to find a less-invasive treatment for cancer.   Along with the biology major, Pearl will also be pursuing a minor degree in music studies.  She traveled with the Portland Youth Philharmonic to the east coast of the United States where she performed at The Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland, Manhattan School of Music in New York City, and Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Massachusetts.  Pearl was invited to a Ben Hong cello masterclass in May of 2023.

Pearl is a 3-time state qualifier for the Washington Music Educators Association and has been a member of the chamber orchestra at Union High School.

She served as principal cellist during her last year in the Portland Youth Conservatory Orchestra before going on to play with the Portland Youth Philharmonic.

Pearl has played with the Oregon Repertory Singers on multiple occasions and performed with Grammy nominated and Emmy winner Jake Runestad.

She has also been feature on Portland’s All Classical Radio’s program On Deck with Young Musicians. https://www.allclassical.org/on-deck/on-deck-with-pearl-liao/