focusIT’s Women in IT Scholarship

Funded by
$5,000
1 winner$5,000
Awarded
Application Deadline
Nov 15, 2023
Winners Announced
Jan 2, 2024
Education Level
Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
Undergraduate or trade school student
Field of Study:
STEM
Gender:
Female
State:
Arizona

In celebration of International Girls in ICT Day, focusIT is working to empower women in STEM to create more gender equality in the field. 

Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, focusIT prioritizes efficiency and creative problem-solving in IT. Many STEM fields are male-dominated and the technology sector in particular has little female representation.

This scholarship seeks to support women who are aspiring to work in STEM so they can afford to finish their degrees.

Any female undergraduate or trade school student in Arizona who’s pursuing STEM may apply for this scholarship.

To apply, tell us what having a STEM career would mean to you.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Passion, Drive
Published April 22, 2023
Essay Topic

What would it mean to you to work in a career in STEM?

400–600 words

Winning Application

Yareth Figueroa Rodriguez
Western Governors UniversityPhoenix, AZ
As I embark on my journey into the world of STEM, I am filled with a boundless enthusiasm for the incredible opportunities and transformative experiences that this career path promises. To me, a career in STEM signifies much more than just a job; it serves as the gateway to a universe of innovation, boundless possibilities, and personal growth. The prospect of working in STEM means, first and foremost, the chance to contribute to the creation of cutting-edge technology that is shaping our world. It means being part of the dynamic process of innovation, where groundbreaking ideas evolve into tangible solutions. STEM has the power to harness human potential, converting the abstract into the concrete, and I am thrilled by the idea of being an integral part of this transformative journey. One of the most captivating aspects of STEM is the concept of augmented reality. The prospect of merging the digital and physical worlds to create immersive and interactive experiences deeply resonates with me. It is the idea of opening doors to entirely new dimensions of learning, entertainment, and communication. The potential applications of augmented reality are vast, from education to healthcare, from entertainment to industrial training, and it ignites my imagination. While my long-term aspiration revolves around augmented reality, I also recognize the value of starting small and focusing on building a strong foundation. Currently, my academic path is centered on majoring in Software Engineering, a field that equips me with the knowledge and skills to develop software applications. This foundation serves as a launchpad for me to explore, experiment, and create. I have an array of ideas, and I am not deterred by initial failures, for I believe that success often emerges from iterative efforts and perseverance. The beauty of STEM, as I have learned from those who have walked this path before me, is its intrinsic flexibility. My major does not limit me to a singular career trajectory; it opens doors to diverse opportunities within the tech industry. This flexibility enables me to adapt, evolve, and pursue different avenues as my interests evolve. It is the prospect of learning, growing, and reinventing myself within this ever-evolving field that excites me the most. Whether it's transitioning from software engineering to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or even game development, STEM provides a framework for perpetual learning and advancement. Above all, a career in STEM represents a commitment to lifelong learning and a dedication to solving complex problems. It means embracing the challenges that await with an unwavering spirit, recognizing that each obstacle is a stepping stone towards a more innovative and promising future. In conclusion, to work in a career in STEM means embracing a world of opportunities, diving headfirst into the frontiers of innovation, and contributing to the betterment of society. It signifies personal growth, adaptability, and the chance to be a part of something much larger than oneself. As I embark on this journey, I am both humbled and inspired by the boundless horizons that lie ahead. STEM is not just a career; it's a calling, an invitation to explore the uncharted, and a promise of a brighter, more interconnected future.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Nov 15, 2023. Winners will be announced on Jan 2, 2024.