Marlene Manning Scholarship

Pursuing higher education will allow me to build a successful future not only for myself, but also for my family and community. My name is Demetrius Featherson Jr., and I am an honor roll student with a 3.4 GPA and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. I am currently preparing to graduate from Fairmont Heights High School in Prince George’s County, Maryland. I have proudly been accepted into Towson University, where I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. Technology has always interested me because of the way it impacts everyday life and creates opportunities for innovation. From communication and business to education and security, technology plays a major role in helping society grow and improve. My goal is to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible throughout college by earning I.T. certifications, participating in internships, and developing the technical skills needed to succeed in the technology industry. I understand that the world continues to rely heavily on technology, and I want to become part of the next generation of professionals who help solve problems, improve systems, and create opportunities through computer science. In addition to academics, I also hope to grow personally and professionally during my college experience. Attending Towson University will expose me to new ideas, diverse experiences, and valuable networking opportunities that can help shape my future career. I look forward to joining organizations, connecting with mentors, and collaborating with other students who share similar goals and ambitions. These experiences will help me become a well-rounded individual and prepare me for leadership opportunities in the future. Furthering my education will give me the tools, discipline, and professional experience needed to step confidently into the world beyond school. Earning a degree in Computer Science will open doors to careers in software development, cybersecurity, networking, and other growing technology fields. I believe education is the foundation for long-term success, and college will help me build the confidence and skills necessary to compete in a constantly evolving industry. I also hope to use my education to inspire younger students in my community to pursue careers in technology and higher education. This scholarship would greatly help me achieve my goals by easing the financial burden of attending college. As I prepare for this next chapter, financial assistance will allow me to focus more on my education, certifications, and internship opportunities rather than worrying about the cost of tuition and expenses. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my academic journey, but it would also motivate me to continue striving for excellence and making my family proud. I am determined to work hard, remain focused, and take advantage of every opportunity available to me at Towson University. I believe that with dedication, education, and support, I can build a successful career in the technology field and positively impact others along the way.

From a young age, my parents have made it very clear that school, in fact, is very important. My Father always told me that to secure a place in the job industry, someone with a degree will always be picked over someone without. While I understood this, I didn't truly take their words to heart until my senior year in high school. I spent years always telling myself I’d do better next quarter, then next semester, next year. It was a never-ending cycle. I finally decided to give my senior year everything I have. I was going to give all my effort until I could walk across that stage with my diploma in hand. This is the promise I made to myself and to God: that I will see through this year with straight A’s. Why do I want to go to college? And how will this scholarship help me? The questions are simple: I have a clear goal of becoming a Psychiatrist. To become a psychiatrist, it is inevitable that I attend college—it doesn’t stop there, I’d have to attend medical school and work internships as well. Ultimately, psychology has always been something that interests me; I genuinely enjoy learning about the complexity of the human brain and its myriad functions. I don't come from a wealthy family, so leaving medical school debt free will be a dream. College to me is a necessary stepping stone, and I believe it is what will shape me and my future. Though it’s a good option, I know college isn’t the only key to a successful future. There are many individuals who choose not to go through college because it holds them back from their full potential, or they choose to become an entrepreneur. However, I find it the complete opposite. I know college will bring out my full potential, and I can’t wait until I walk across the stage with my doctoral degree. Upon finishing high school, I plan to attend Bowie State University for my prerequisites before I transfer to the University of Maryland for the Medical Program. I know college isn't easy; it's physically and mentally demanding—not to mention expensive too. This is why I have proactively applied to many scholarships, and still am, because I want to give my full attention to schoolwork. With open arms and an optimistic future, I ask that you consider me in your decisions for scholarships.