Powering The Future - Whiddon Memorial Scholarship

I thought my chance to return to school had finally come after graduating from Basic Military Training (BMT). I eagerly checked my email for my UC Davis acceptance letter, having poured my heart into the application. Instead, my heart sank as I read, “Thank you for your interest… Unfortunately, we are unable to offer you admission.” Even my appeal was denied, leaving me devastated and questioning my next steps. The pursuit of higher education has always been a cornerstone of my life, but my journey has been far from conventional. From burning through savings, dropping out of college due to financial burdens, joining the military, and now grappling with the costs of the only online ABET-accredited program, I’ve faced challenges that tested my resilience, shaped my character, and solidified my passion for chemical engineering. My interest in environmental sustainability began in high school with AP Environmental Science, which sparked my passion for addressing climate change and renewable energy. At UCSB, I hoped to further this passion, however, the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped this path, testing both my determination and adaptability. Living expenses skyrocketed, forcing me to exhaust my savings, and balancing work and academics caused my grades to falter. Eventually, I made the difficult decision to leave UCSB, a choice that strained my relationship with my mother and left me feeling lost. This turning point became a transformative period in my life. I enrolled in online community college courses, earning As, and joined the Air Force Reserve, where I gained financial aid and developed discipline and perseverance. It was during this time I discovered that chemical engineering aligned with my passion for sustainability but also offered broader opportunities to address environmental challenges. The University of North Dakota’s ABET-accredited chemical engineering program became the perfect fit for my goals of creating renewable energy solutions and processes that mitigate environmental harm. Moving across the country with my husband, starting a full-time civilian job, and balancing military duties have tested my resilience, but they’ve also prepared me for the challenges ahead. Although my initial goal was to pursue environmental engineering, I realized that accredited programs were limited for online study. Exploring alternatives led me to see that chemical engineering, while not my first choice, is a versatile path that equips me to tackle renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable systems. This degree provides the foundation for creating innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. Financial challenges, however, remain a significant hurdle. Despite military tuition assistance and FAFSA, I still face a $6,000 semester gap. Working full-time helps, but it limits my ability to fully focus on my studies. Receiving this Scholarship would alleviate burdens, enabling me to dedicate more time to academic success, internships, and pursuing a master’s degree in environmental or chemical engineering. In the long term, I hope to work in renewable energy or government agencies like OUSD A&S – Environment and Energy Resilience. Communities like Oxnard, California, where industrial emissions contribute to high asthma rates, inspire me to make an impact. By helping industries decarbonize and adopt sustainable practices, I aim to create healthier, more equitable futures. The Whiddon's legacy of perseverance and innovation deeply resonates with me, reflecting my own journey of resilience and adaptability. Their commitment to driving change mirrors my own aspirations to use STEM to address critical challenges and work toward a world where sustainability and innovation thrive hand in hand. From setbacks to self-reinvention, these experiences have strengthened my work ethic and deepened my passion for STEM. With this scholarship, I can honor their legacy while continue this journey and make a lasting impact.