Abhi Khune Underrepresented Minorities Scholarship

From a young age, I loved riddles. My fascination with riddles made me realize why I wanted to pursue opportunities in the computer science field. Both computer science and riddles require problem-solving skills. In computer science, the problems may involve coding challenges or debugging code, while in riddles, the problem may be figuring out the answer to a cleverly worded puzzle. Logic is a necessity to create algorithms and write efficient code, whereas, in riddles, the answer often requires a logical thought process to arrive at the correct solution. Computer science and riddles also require creativity. Programmers use their creativity to design new applications and solve problems in unique ways, while in riddles, the creators come up with clever ways to challenge the solver. As much as error codes may be frustrating (especially in c++), it is all worth it with the sense of satisfaction when a code runs successfully. As a programmer, I feel a sense of accomplishment when I solve a particularly difficult problem or create a successful application, while in riddles, I feel a sense of satisfaction when I finally figure out the answer. As much as I love computer science, there are challenging obstacles I will constantly have to face when expanding in the field. Some of the most controversial topics relating to women of color in computer science often center around the idea that we are not fit for this type of degree. I believe the reasoning behind this assumption includes misogyny, intellectual stereotypes, lack of resources, and discrimination. Women in computer science are constantly questioned and doubted in the technology field despite the skill set we obtain. I am currently working on creating an app that will serve as a safe space specifically for women to share job offers within the technology field, provide reviews on how a company treated them while underemployment, advocate for pay transparency, and help guide graduates in expanding within their desired field. With this scholarship, I can continue aiming for my goals to create safe spaces and opportunities for women in computer science. Accessibility is also one of my top priorities when it comes to my interest in computer science. I have been particularly interested in the cybersecurity field due to how essential it is in today's society with how dependent we are on technology. With several friends and family members whose capabilities are limited, I advocate for efficient technological ways to help individuals with disabilities function in the world. People with disabilities may rely on the use of technology to manage their daily lives, such as using assistive technology devices and apps. Protecting their personal information from cyber-attacks and data breaches is important for maintaining their privacy and security. Cybersecurity measures that are properly implemented and designed can help ensure that technology is accessible. For example, websites and apps that have proper security features can be more accessible to users who rely on assistive technology to access and navigate the web. Many people with disabilities may also need to work remotely due to accessibility concerns, and cybersecurity measures can help make this a secure option. Remote work options can also help to provide more job opportunities. Online harassment and bullying is also a major problem targeted towards those within the community. Cybersecurity measures that protect against these threats can help create a safer online environment. Cybersecurity helps protect personal information, ensures accessibility, and provides more opportunities for employment and participation in society. My goal for the current year is to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to technology and can use it safely and securely.

I live for a challenge. My competitive spirit drives me to accomplish goals that seem just out of reach. I believe that is why I decided to pursue computer engineering. Since I was in middle school I dreamed of making robots and building gadgets. Whenever I would tell someone, they would always remind me of how difficult this endeavor would be. However, this only strengthened my will to achieve this goal. I believed that, although it would be challenging, through this degree I would be able to continuously build on and make breakthroughs while also being able to physically see the work that has been made. Although I did not have many opportunities to further this dream in high school, my feelings never changed. Now that I am actively pursuing this challenge, I have no doubt that I made the right decision. I am currently working towards a computer engineering degree at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Although I am not completely certain, I would like to, one day, expand my education even more and obtain a master's degree. Once I graduate, I want to work and gain new experience that I would not necessarily gain in the classroom. Outside of work, I would like to take all the knowledge that I accumulated and start a personal project. If, or rather I should say when, I complete it, I hopefully will one day be able to sell the product. This could eventually lead to an entrepreneurial opportunity in which I would be able to start my own business. Many things might worry one in high school who is soon to enter into higher education. Going from a place in which most to all is mandatory to a place where one has complete control of what he or she wants to study can be frightening. There is nothing scarier than going into an unfamiliar situation and pursuing a goal without knowing whether it will work out or not. That is the story for many young people in STEM. I am an African American female in a field that is dominated by men. There are and will be many points in my journey when I will not know whether or not it will work out for a person like me. I am most passionate about fulfilling my dreams so that other young people like me are able to see that it is possible to have a dream turn into their reality, no matter what they look like or what obstacles lie ahead.