Young Innovator: Alice H. ’27 Brings CleanHit to the Global Stage
Alice H. ’27 brought innovation to the global stage at the Diamond Challenge, presenting her invention CleanHit, a portable device designed to detect heavy metals in e-cigarettes.
Inspired by growing concerns around vaping safety, Alice set out to create a tool that empowers users to better understand what they are inhaling.
During the competition, Alice presented her idea to a panel of judges, who praised the concept as bold and forward-thinking. Their feedback pushed her to think more deeply about real-world applications, especially the importance of building consumer trust and developing a strong, effective marketing strategy.
Alice advanced to the Global Semifinals, an impressive accomplishment that reflects both her creativity and dedication. While she did not move on to the final round, the experience gave her an invaluable perspective on entrepreneurship, product development, and the iterative process of bringing an idea to life.
Beyond the competition, Alice connected with students from around the world who share a passion for innovation and problem-solving. These conversations broadened her perspective and sparked new ideas for the future of CleanHit.
At Portledge, experiences like these are part of a larger commitment to student-driven learning, where curiosity and initiative are encouraged every step of the way. Alice’s journey is a strong example of how students are empowered to take risks, think critically, and grow through real-world experiences!
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