Cole is a junior Choose Ohio First (COF) Engineering and Science Innovators (ESI-Science) majoring Biology with minors in film studies and Environment, Economy, Development, and Sustainability (EEDS) at The Ohio State University (OSU). He undertook the project Influence of Trees on Forest Soil Carbon while simultaneously conducting clinical research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. These two projects represent his first experiences with research. During his research experience, Cole became interested in sustainability and the environment leading him to pursue an EEDS minor. During summer of 2021, Cole participated in an internship with Franklinton Farms in Franklinton, Columbus. Franklinton Farms is a non-profit organization focused on enriching the community it is in by providing a resource for fresh and healthy food to the city.

In his role, Cole grew, sold, and gave away vegetables to the Franklinton community. He was fortunate to interact with numerous members of the community and other leaders in the area. These experiences have allowed him to see sustainability in all its dimensions- from working the soil with his own hands, to attending community events, to analyzing it from a scientific perspective. One of Cole's aspirations is to bring his knowledge and skills from his research areas, internships, and other experiences to his future career as a physician.

Cole Simons will represent the OSU at the Annual Choose Ohio First Showcase on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 2:30 PM. He is presenting a research poster entitled Influence of Trees on Forest Soil Carbon. In addition, he has mentioned that COF has given him access to numerous opportunities he otherwise would not have known about. Furthermore, working with Wonders of Our World (WOW) in his freshman year was a foundational experience as an incoming student. Lastly, he appreciates the COF 45-hour service requirement because is an opportunity to be involved in extracurricular activities every semester. In addition, it helped him to set his plans on the right path and become familiarized with his field early on his academic career. Cole also adds: "Ultimately, in COF I feel a part of something bigger and more connected to my fellow students".