Hello. My name is Aletha Acolatse, and I am a second-year Biomedical Engineering student. I come from a single-parent household and am one of five children. I currently work part-time as a barista in a coffee shop. When I'm not working, I enjoy Bible study, family time, reading, music, and volunteering at the A.L.I.V.E. center in my community. I found my love of Biomedical Engineering through the enthusiasm of my former science teachers, Mrs.Mize and Mr.Benages, and my early passions for human anatomy/physiology and machines. I decided to pursue a career in biomedical engineering not only because of my love for it but also because there is a terrifying lack of diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. As a young black woman, I was astonished to find that black women make up less than 2.5% of engineers in the United States and much less than that in the entire world. I realized that I could set an example and be an inspiration for anyone, particularly those who come from the same marginalized groups that I do. I realized that if I succeeded, I would not only fulfill my purpose in life but also encourage others like me to defy societal norms and achieve what seems impossible. I have many goals that I would like to achieve in my life. A few short-term goals are earning my bachelor's degree in Biomedical engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago and pursuing a master's degree in Neural Engineering. A few long-term goals involve developing machines that would provide restoration and augmentation in people who suffer from neurological disorders, ultimately providing pain relief and increasing their quality of life. I also aspire to establish a STEM-focused foundation that caters to underrepresented students by providing them with the necessary tools they'll need to excel, such as scholarship, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities, all while promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM. By providing underrepresented students with the utmost support, whether it be mental, physical, academic, or financial, I believe we can connect and address the significant issues the world suffers from today. Aside from my educational and career goals, I dream of owning land, a house, and a garden. Everyone always asks, 'What do you want to do with your life'? But never asks, 'What do you envision for the future'? I think about this question often; sometimes, I have a definitive answer, and sometimes I don't. The world is ever-changing; even as I write this essay, a discovery has been made. So, while things may seem impossible today, they will not in the future. Things may not be solved today, tomorrow, or even the next day, but someday, they will be. By being gifted this scholarship, I will have more time to focus on my education, connect with my community, and establish a STEM-focused foundation. With your help, I could be the first in my family to obtain both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. I have a clear vision of who I want to be and the legacy that I want to leave behind. God has given us one life, and I am determined to leave this earth much better than I found it.

Hello. My name is Aletha Acolatse, and I am a second-year Biomedical Engineering student. I come from a single-parent household and am one of five children. I currently work part-time as a barista in a coffee shop. When I'm not working, I enjoy Bible study, family time, reading, music, and volunteering at the A.L.I.V.E. center in my community. I found my love of Biomedical Engineering through the enthusiasm of my former science teachers, Mrs.Mize and Mr.Benages, and my early passions for human anatomy/physiology and machines. I decided to pursue a career in biomedical engineering not only because of my love for it but also because there is a terrifying lack of diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. As a young black woman, I was astonished to find that black women make up less than 2.5% of engineers in the United States and much less than that in the entire world. I realized that I could set an example and be an inspiration for anyone, particularly those who come from the same marginalized groups that I do. I realized that if I succeeded, I would not only fulfill my purpose in life but also encourage others like me to defy societal norms and achieve what seems impossible. I have many goals I would like to achieve in my life. A few short-term goals are earning my bachelor's degree in Biomedical engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago and pursuing a master's degree in Neural Engineering. A few long-term goals involve developing machines that would provide restoration and augmentation in people who suffer from neurological disorders, ultimately providing pain relief and increasing their quality of life. I also aspire to establish a STEM-focused foundation that caters to underrepresented students by providing them with the necessary tools they'll need to excel, such as scholarship, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities, all while promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM. By providing underrepresented students with the utmost support, whether it be mental, physical, academic, or financial, I believe we can connect and address the significant issues the world suffers from today. Aside from my educational and career goals, I dream of owning land, a house, and a garden. Everyone always asks, 'What do you want to do with your life'? But never asks, 'What do you envision for the future'? I think about this question often; sometimes, I have a definitive answer, and sometimes I don't. The world is ever-changing; even as I write this essay, a discovery has been made. So while things may seem impossible today, they will not in the future. Things may not be solved today, tomorrow, or even the next day, but someday, they will be. I will experience many triumphs and failures, but these will not be the last. God has given us one life, and I am determined to leave this earth much better than I found it.

Hello. My name is Aletha Acolatse, and I am a second-year Biomedical Engineering student. I come from a single-parent household and am one of five children. I currently work part-time as a barista in a coffee shop. When I'm not working, I enjoy Bible study, family time, reading, music, and volunteering at the A.L.I.V.E. center in my community. I found my love of Biomedical Engineering through the enthusiasm of my former science teachers, Mrs.Mize and Mr.Benages, and my early passions for human anatomy/physiology and machines. I decided to pursue a career in biomedical engineering not only because of my love for it but also because there is a terrifying lack of diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. As a young black woman, I was astonished to find that black women make up less than 2.5% of engineers in the United States and much less than that in the entire world. I realized that I could set an example and be an inspiration for anyone, particularly those who come from the same marginalized groups that I do. I realized that if I succeeded, I would not only fulfill my purpose in life but also encourage others like me to defy societal norms and achieve what seems impossible. I have many goals I would like to achieve in my life. A few short-term goals are earning my bachelor's degree in Biomedical engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago and pursuing a master's degree in Neural Engineering. A few long-term goals involve developing machines that would provide restoration and augmentation in people who suffer from neurological disorders, ultimately providing pain relief and increasing their quality of life. I also aspire to establish a STEM-focused foundation that caters to underrepresented students by providing them with the necessary tools they'll need to excel, such as scholarship, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities, all while promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM. By providing underrepresented students with the utmost support, whether it be mental, physical, academic, or financial, I believe we can connect and address the significant issues the world suffers from today. Aside from my educational and career goals, I dream of owning land, a house, and a garden. Everyone always asks, 'What do you want to do with your life'? But never asks, 'What do you envision for the future'? I think about this question often; sometimes, I have a definitive answer, and sometimes I don't. The world is ever-changing; even as I write this essay, a discovery has been made. So, while things may seem impossible today, they will not in the future. Things may not be solved today, tomorrow, or even the next day, but someday, they will be. I will experience many triumphs and failures, but these will not be the last. God has given us one life, and I am determined to leave this earth much better than I found it.

Hello. My name is Aletha Acolatse, and I am a second-year Biomedical Engineering student. I come from a single-parent household and am one of five children. I currently work part-time as a barista in a coffee shop. When I'm not working, I enjoy Bible study, family time, reading, music, and volunteering at the A.L.I.V.E. center in my community. I found my love of Biomedical Engineering through the enthusiasm of my former science teachers, Mrs.Mize and Mr.Benages, and my early passions for human anatomy/physiology and machines. I decided to pursue a career in biomedical engineering not only because of my love for it but also because there is a terrifying lack of diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. As a young black woman, I was astonished to find that black women make up less than 2.5% of engineers in the United States and much less than that in the entire world. I realized that I could set an example and be an inspiration for anyone, particularly those who come from the same marginalized groups that I do. I realized that if I succeeded, I would not only fulfill my purpose in life but also encourage others like me to defy societal norms and achieve what seems impossible. I have many goals I would like to achieve in my life. A few short-term goals are earning my bachelor's degree in Biomedical engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago and pursuing a master's degree in Neural Engineering. A few long-term goals involve developing machines that would provide restoration and augmentation in people who suffer from neurological disorders, ultimately providing pain relief and increasing their quality of life. I also aspire to establish a STEM-focused foundation that caters to underrepresented students by providing them with the necessary tools they'll need to excel, such as scholarship, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities, all while promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM. By providing underrepresented students with the utmost support, whether it be mental, physical, academic, or financial, I believe we can connect and address the significant issues the world suffers from today. Aside from my educational and career goals, I dream of owning land, a house, and a garden. Everyone always asks, 'What do you want to do with your life'? But never asks, 'What do you envision for the future'? I think about this question often; sometimes, I have a definitive answer, and sometimes I don't. The world is ever-changing; even as I write this essay, a discovery has been made. So, while things may seem impossible today, they will not in the future. Things may not be solved today, tomorrow, or even the next day, but someday, they will be. I will experience many triumphs and failures, but these will not be the last. God has given us one life, and I am determined to leave this earth much better than I found it.

In my journey to make a positive impact, I am determined to address the underrepresentation of minorities in STEM fields. As a young black woman pursuing STEM, I have personally experienced the lack of diversity in these spaces. This fuels my drive to create meaningful change by founding a non-profit organization focused on promoting STEM education among minority communities. Through this initiative, I aim to provide resources, mentorship programs, and scholarships specifically tailored to empower and support underrepresented individuals. By breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive environment, we can cultivate a new generation of diverse STEM professionals who will contribute their unique perspectives to solving the world's most pressing challenges. I firmly believe that by amplifying the voices and talents of minorities in STEM, we can unlock endless possibilities and pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. In addition to providing educational resources, I am committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity within STEM fields. Through partnerships with schools, universities, and organizations, we will develop programs that actively encourage and support underrepresented minority groups. By offering mentorship, internships, and networking opportunities, we can inspire and empower these individuals, fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates their contributions and ensures they have an equal chance to excel. Scholarships will be a critical component of my efforts to empower minority students. Establishing a scholarship program specifically targeted toward underprivileged minority students in STEM will provide them with the financial support needed to pursue their dreams. This initiative will not only alleviate financial barriers but also send a powerful message of recognition and encouragement, reinforcing their belief in their abilities and potential. To ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of these initiatives, collaboration with corporations, foundations, and philanthropic organizations that share a commitment to minority empowerment will be essential. By forming partnerships, we can pool resources, access expertise, and leverage networks to amplify the impact of our collective efforts. Together, we can create a comprehensive support system that addresses the unique needs and challenges faced by minority communities, ensuring their voices are heard, and their contributions are valued. While my focus is on targeting minorities, I firmly believe that promoting diversity and inclusivity benefits society as a whole. By fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, have equal access to opportunities, we unleash untapped potential and drive innovation and progress. This inclusive approach will not only benefit minority communities but also enrich society by embracing a wide range of perspectives and experiences. In conclusion, my plan to positively impact the world places a strong emphasis on empowering minority communities. By founding a non-profit organization, promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM, and establishing scholarships specifically targeted toward minority students, we can break down barriers, bridge gaps, and create a more equitable future. Through collaboration and a commitment to inclusivity, we can empower individuals from all backgrounds to thrive, contribute, and shape a better world for future generations.

Hello, I am Aletha, and it is a pleasure to introduce myself to you. As a sophomore at the College of DuPage, I'm pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering with a passion for Neural Engineering. Raised in a single-parent household, my mother, from Liberia, has been an unwavering source of inspiration, instilling in me the values of resilience, determination, self-reliance, empathy, and compassion. Her remarkable journey has shaped me and fueled my determination to make a difference. Perseverance is a value that resonates deeply within me, thanks to my mother's relentless spirit. As a single mother, she faced innumerable challenges, yet she stood resolute in pursuing a better life. In the face of adversity, she taught me the importance of resilience and determination. Through tears and tireless efforts, she demonstrated the extraordinary strength that lies within the human spirit. Witnessing her unyielding resolve has ignited a fire within me, instilling the belief that no obstacle is inconquerable. This value is etched in my soul, propelling me forward in my academic journey. From an early age, my mother preached the value of self-reliance. Her faith in my abilities empowered me to embrace independence and take ownership of my actions. As a single mother, she shouldered the weight of responsibilities, teaching me the impact of taking charge of one's life. Her guidance and support taught me that relying on myself was not only a strength but a pathway to personal growth. This value instilled a sense of autonomy and self-confidence that has fueled my ambitions toward success. Embedded within my being are the values of empathy and compassion cultivated by my remarkable mother. Despite her struggles, she never hesitated to extend a helping hand to those in need. Her selflessness and genuine concern for others left an indelible mark on my heart. Her actions taught me the power of kindness, reminding me that even the smallest acts of compassion can create ripples of change. These values have shown me an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others, filling my heart with a deep well of love and understanding. Education has always been the cornerstone of my mother's dreams for me. She believes it is key to unlocking endless possibilities and a brighter future. Her sacrifice and belief in the transformative power of education have deeply resonated with me. Through her eyes, I have witnessed the dreams she has deferred to provide me with better opportunities. This intense emotional connection has fueled my thirst for knowledge and pushed me to embrace education as a catalyst for change. Through education, I seek to honor her sacrifices, rewrite our story, and pave the way for a better future. The values my single mother has instilled in me have left an everlasting imprint on my soul. From the unwavering perseverance that lifts me through challenges, the resolute independence that fuels my ambitions, the overflowing empathy and compassion that guide my actions, and the belief in the transformative power of education that drives my pursuit of knowledge, My mother's love, sacrifice, and unwavering support have shaped my aspirations and the essence of who I am today. I am forever grateful for the emotional depth in which my single mother has instilled these values in me, and I will honor her legacy by embracing every opportunity, overcoming every obstacle, and striving to create a future that reflects the strength, compassion, and resilience she has imparted to me.

As I embark on this new chapter of my life, I am humbly reminded of the journey that has shaped me into who I am today. Growing up in the vibrant Chicagoland area within a single-parent home, I faced external hurdles and internal struggles that threatened to derail my path. However, through resilience and unwavering determination, I overcame the grip of depression, emerging stronger and more determined than ever to achieve greatness. This personal triumph fuels my educational pursuits and unwavering commitment to creating a better future for myself and others. Currently, I am pursuing an Associate Engineering Science degree at the College of Dupage, which lays a solid foundation for my larger educational goals. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on projects, I am gaining the knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in the field of engineering. However, my ambitions extend far beyond this initial degree. I am deeply passionate about the intersection of engineering and biomedical sciences, particularly in the field of NeuroEngineering. With an unwavering commitment to my educational journey, I aspire to pursue a Master's in Biomedical Science with a specialty in Neural Engineering. This advanced program will allow me to delve deeper into the intricate workings of the human brain and develop innovative technologies to improve neurological health. But my aspirations go beyond personal success. I am driven by a deep desire to make a lasting impact and promote diversity and inclusivity within STEM fields. Inspired by my journey and challenges, I envision founding a non-profit organization that prioritizes STEM education for K-12th-grade students and teachers. This organization will break down barriers and provide equitable access to STEM opportunities for underrepresented groups. Central to the foundation's mission will be the provision of scholarships that empower aspiring STEM students facing financial obstacles. I firmly believe that financial limitations should never hinder access to quality education. By offering scholarships, we can ensure that talented individuals have the support they need to pursue their dreams without financial constraints. Additionally, the non-profit organization will prioritize teacher professional development by offering training, resources, and mentorship programs. Empowering educators with the tools and knowledge to inspire and nurture a diverse group of young minds in STEM disciplines will help build a strong talent pipeline, fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. I am deeply committed to creating an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to thrive in STEM. Through education, empowerment, and support, we can unlock the limitless potential within every individual and inspire the next generation of innovators, researchers, and problem solvers who will shape our world. The money saved from paying down my student loan(s) will be crucial in pursuing these aspirations. It will provide the financial stability and flexibility needed to pursue advanced degrees, invest in resources, and establish a non-profit organization. These savings will empower me to dedicate myself to my studies, research, and developing initiatives promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM. Pursuing an Associate Engineering Science degree at the College of Dupage is just the beginning. With aspirations to pursue a Master's in Biomedical Science with a specialty in Neural Engineering, I am driven to make an impact in the field and beyond. By investing in the next generation, we can build a more equitable and innovative future. The money saved from paying down my student loan(s) will be instrumental in making these aspirations a reality. Through the power of education, unwavering empowerment, and a steadfast belief in the boundless potential of every individual, I am resolute in my mission to ignite a spark.

In a world filled with tempting fast food options and convenience-oriented lifestyles, I embarked on a transformative journey to challenge the impact of my family's health history. Recognizing the urgency to prioritize healthy eating habits, I transformed my well-being and advocated for change within my family. I discovered the power of education and strategic preparation by teaching my younger siblings about healthier food choices and implementing meal planning. This holistic approach has empowered me to defy the limitations imposed by family health history, paving the way for a healthier, more vibrant future for future generations. With a deep understanding of my family's health vulnerabilities, I became a mentor and teacher, guiding my younger siblings toward healthier food choices. By imparting knowledge about the benefits of nutrient-dense foods and the drawbacks of processed alternatives, I empowered them to make informed decisions about their consumption. Together, we explored new recipes, discovered the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients, and committed to prioritizing our physical well-being. Through this collective effort, we have experienced enhanced energy levels, weight management, and reduced risk of chronic conditions, defying the odds of our family's health history. Implementing meal planning has not only optimized our physical health but also cultivated a sense of mental well-being within our family. By engaging in the thoughtful process of planning nutritious meals, we have learned to appreciate the impact of food on our emotions and mental clarity. We involve one another in decision-making, ensuring our meals are balanced, nourishing, and satisfying. This shared responsibility fosters a supportive environment where we prioritize self-care and emotional stability. The meal planning process has become a creative outlet as we explore new flavors and culinary techniques together, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration. The positive mental transformations resulting from our shared efforts enable us to face life's challenges with resilience and a renewed sense of purpose. By teaching my younger siblings about healthier food choices and implementing meal planning, our family has embraced a holistic approach to well-being. We have cultivated a deeper understanding of our bodies and the impact of nutrition on our overall health. We engage in open conversations about wellness, sharing resources, and supporting one another's goals. Meal planning has improved our physical and mental health and promoted better time management, and reduced stress levels. By strategically preparing our meals, we have more time for self-care activities, hobbies, and quality time spent together as a family. This holistic transformation has brought us closer, fostering a sense of unity, shared purpose, and a determination to defy the limitations imposed by our family's health history. In conclusion, my empowering journey of healthy eating has not only transformed my well-being but has also inspired change within my family. By teaching my younger siblings about healthier food choices and implementing meal planning, we have defied the limitations imposed by our family's health history. This collective effort has nurtured our physical and mental well-being, fostering unity, support, and a shared commitment to a healthier future. Through education, strategic planning, and a holistic approach to well-being, we have opened doors to vibrant and fulfilling lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to inspire change within my family and aspire to continue this journey, empowering others to embrace healthier choices and rewrite their health narratives.

Growing up, I was always asked the question of what I wanted to be when I grew up. Sometimes I’d say a wizard or a tiger, and other times I would say a lawyer or a doctor. However, when it came to choosing my college major, I faced the difficult decision of what to pursue as a career. Despite my confusion, I knew that I wanted to study in a field that would fall under the STEM category. My eighth-grade science teacher, Mr. Banages, first sparked my interest in STEM-related topics such as engineering and technology. Later on, my high school biology teacher, Mrs. Mize, further cultivated my interest when it was time for me to choose my major. I eventually developed a passion for life sciences and engineering, which led me to discover the field of Biomedical Engineering. Biomedical Engineering is the perfect combination of my interests in both biology and engineering. It allows me to bridge my love for both fields while promoting diversity and inclusivity in STEM and impacting people’s lives locally and globally. My mission is to empower students and help nurture their growth through STEM education. Additionally, I aspire to inspire individuals who identify as women or part of the LGBTQIA+ community. As such, I dream of founding a nonprofit organization that enhances the learning experience of PreK-12th grade students and teachers worldwide. My nonprofit organization will focus on teaching students how to problem-solve using real-world applications and be a part of a team in STEM-related projects. I understand how stressful it can be for students to pay for college, so my organization will also offer scholarships to aid students pursuing STEM in their academic endeavors, allowing them to focus on their goals rather than worry about finances. My ultimate goal is to impact the world significantly, and I refuse to be a mere ripple in the water. Instead, I aspire to be a hurricane that floods the streets and breaks through the barriers. I understand that some may view my visions for the future as unachievable and hopeless, but their words do not distract me from my goals. Instead, their doubts fuel my drive to be a voice for my communities and impact STEM through my profession and nonprofit organization. In summary, my passion for STEM, love for people, and vision of a brighter future have all motivated me to pursue Biomedical Engineering. Through this field, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the world and inspire others to pursue their passions in STEM.

Since my childhood, I knew that my family had limited financial resources. Despite being a family of six, we lived in a small two-bedroom apartment located in a working-class area. Meeting our expenses was always challenging for my parents, and it became even more challenging after their separation. My mother had to raise my siblings and me alone, and it was tough. She worked long hours as a patient care tech, but her earnings weren't enough to meet our basic needs. Sometimes we had no electricity or water, and we couldn't afford to take trips. Despite the challenges, my mother never gave up. She worked hard to ensure we had a roof over our heads and food on the table. I learned the value of hard work and perseverance from her. As I got older, I could see how much she sacrificed for our family, and it made me even more determined to help in any way I could. During my high school years, I started my first job with the sole purpose of contributing to my family's finances. However, I kept it a secret from my mother and added the cash I earned to our bill money envelope. I taught myself how to stack coupons and taught my siblings to conserve energy. Despite the struggles, I learned a lot from my family's experiences. I developed a deep empathy for others going through similar challenges and learned to appreciate the small things in life. Now, my family of five is thriving, and each of us has our own room. We never have to worry about necessities like food or electricity. My mother pursued a career in radiology and works as a radiologist at our local hospital, and we are proud of her accomplishments. Looking back, I'm proud of how far my family has come. We supported each other through thick and thin, never giving up hope for a better future. While we may have struggled with poverty, we never lost sight of the things that truly mattered – love, compassion, and a sense of community. In conclusion, growing up with parents who were separated and struggling with poverty was a challenging experience, but it taught me valuable lessons about resilience and empathy. Although it was tough to go without necessities, I learned to appreciate the small things in life and work hard for the things I wanted. I am grateful for the experiences that shaped me into the person I am today and committed to helping others who may be going through similar challenges.

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging and emotional experiences one can go through. The loss of someone close can leave a lasting impact, causing a range of emotions from sadness to anger and even guilt. In my case, losing my grandfather was a defining moment that made me reevaluate my priorities and focus on what matters most in life. In 2015, my family experienced a devastating loss when my grandfather passed away from valvular heart disease. He had suffered a stroke a few years prior and passed away in the hospice he was staying in. It was a sudden and unexpected event that left us all reeling with grief. I remember seeing a slight smile on his face as we gathered around him. I felt a mixture of relief, sadness, and confusion as we struggled to come to terms with his passing. Despite the pain, I also held onto the memories of the times we spent together and the impact he had on our lives. While his passing was difficult, it brought our family closer and reminded us of the importance of cherishing our time with our loved ones. Before my grandfather's death, I was consumed with the daily stresses of school and work, rarely reflecting on what truly mattered to me. However, his passing made me realize how fleeting life can be and how important it is to make the most of our time. I began to cherish every moment, spending more time with loved ones and taking every opportunity to enjoy life. My grandfather was an immigrant who worked tirelessly to provide for his family and give them a better life. He instilled in me a strong work ethic and a determination to never give up on my dreams. Losing him made me realize that life is too short to settle for mediocrity and that I needed to fight for my aspirations. Moreover, my grandfather's death inspired me to pursue my dreams and fight for what I believe in. As a result, I decided to pursue a career in STEM, specifically Biomedical Engineering, to contribute to artificial organ research. I believe that STEM is for everyone and crucial for our society's development. My grandfather's passing made me realize I wanted to make a difference in the world and help those in need. The loss of my grandfather also made me reflect on the importance of mental health. After his death, I struggled with depression and anxiety, something that was completely new to me. I learned firsthand how important it is to take care of our mental health and how difficult it can be to ask for help. I want to use my education and my career to raise awareness of mental health issues and to help others who are struggling. Losing someone close can be devastating, but it can also be a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. Overall, my grandfather's passing was a defining moment that made me realize what truly matters. I now cherish every moment with loved ones, fight for my dreams, and prioritize my mental health. My grandfather's death also made me appreciate the power of community and the importance of coming together in times of need. The support and love I received from family and friends during this difficult time made me realize how much we need each other and how important it is to be there for one another. In conclusion, losing a loved one can be a painful and emotional experience that leaves a lasting impact. However, it can also be a time for growth, self-reflection, and a renewed focus on what truly matters. My grandfather's passing made me appreciate the importance of cherishing every moment, fighting for my dreams, prioritizing my mental health, and the power of community. I hope to honor his memory by living my life to the fullest and using my education and career to impact the world positively.

Growing up, I was often asked what I wanted to be. Sometimes I'd answer a wizard or a tiger, and other times I'd answer a lawyer or a doctor, but when it was time to choose my major, I didn't have an answer. It's a conflicting decision to make and even more so when you are young. However, I knew I would pursue something that would fall into the STEM category. My eighth-grade science teacher Mr. Banages first piqued my interest in STEM topics such as engineering and biology. My high school biology teacher Mrs. Mize helped sustain that interest when it was time for me to choose my major. I grew to love and have a passion for the life sciences and engineering, so if I couldn't decide between biology or engineering, why not choose both? I discovered Biomedical engineering and decided that it was just right for me. It has allowed me to bridge my love of engineering and biology while working to improve people's lives locally and beyond. Over the last few decades, women and young girls have begun their involvement in STEM and have excelled. Unfortunately, the increase in educational achievement has yet to be matched in the representation of women working in STEM professions. While women make up approximately twenty-seven percent of STEM fields, the percentage of female minorities in STEM is nearly a quarter of that. When I learned of the STEM Gap, I felt inspired. I realized I could be another African-American woman in the STEM Field, along with many others that make up so little of the STEM Field. Following my completion of my associate's degree in engineering science, I will transfer to a Bachelor's Degree program in engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago. I will continue to be a member of the Society of Women Engineers. As I network with more women, I will be able to find more women who share my common interests when it comes to encouraging women and young girls to pursue STEM fields and bridging the STEM gender gap. By becoming a Biomedical Engineer, I want to create revolutionary tools that can be used to help hospitals and provide comfort and calmness to hospital visitors. I hope to become an inspiration for female minorities through my efforts as a biomedical engineer. As a young black woman, I aim to encourage the next generation of black girls and boys to interact and build relationships with their communities. I want them to see that they are welcome and represented in the STEM community. It is essential for them to know that STEM allows them to make a difference in their community. I plan to achieve my goals with the help of others in my community. I aspire to create a network of Black STEM professionals passionate about closing the STEM GAP and positively contributing to our communities by utilizing STEM. With strong collaboration, I am confident that our combined efforts will make a lasting impact and help bring about a brighter future for the next generation of Black STEM professionals.

Growing up, I was often asked what I wanted to be. Sometimes I'd answer a wizard or a tiger, and other times I'd answer a lawyer or a doctor, but when it was time to choose my major, I didn't have an answer. It's a conflicting decision to make and even more so when you are young. However, I knew I would pursue something that would fall into the STEM category. My eighth-grade science teacher Mr. Banages first piqued my interest in STEM topics such as engineering and biology. My high school biology teacher Mrs. Mize helped sustain that interest when it was time for me to choose my major. I grew to love and have a passion for the life sciences and engineering, so if I couldn't decide between biology or engineering, why not choose both? I discovered Biomedical engineering and decided that it was just right for me. It has allowed me to bridge my love of engineering and biology while working to improve people's lives locally and beyond. Over the last few decades, women and young girls have begun their involvement in STEM and have excelled. Unfortunately, the increase in educational achievement has yet to be matched in the representation of women working in STEM professions. While women make up approximately twenty-seven percent of STEM fields, the percentage of female minorities in STEM is nearly a quarter of that. When I learned of the STEM Gap, I felt inspired. I realized I could be another African-American woman in the STEM Field, along with many others that make up so little of the STEM Field. Following my completion of my associate's degree in engineering science, I will transfer to a Bachelor's Degree program in engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago. I will continue to be a member of the Society of Women Engineers. As I network with more women, I will be able to find more women who share my common interests when it comes to encouraging women and young girls to pursue STEM fields and bridging the STEM gender gap. By becoming a Biomedical Engineer, I want to create revolutionary tools that can be used to help hospitals and provide comfort and calmness to hospital visitors. I hope to become an inspiration for female minorities through my efforts as a biomedical engineer. As a young black woman, I aim to encourage the next generation of black girls and boys to interact and build relationships with their communities. I want them to see that they are welcome and represented in the STEM community. It is essential for them to know that STEM allows them to make a difference in their community. I plan to achieve my goals with the help of others in my community. I aspire to create a network of Black STEM professionals passionate about closing the STEM GAP and positively contributing to our communities by utilizing STEM. With strong collaboration, I am confident that our combined efforts will make a lasting impact and help bring about a brighter future for the next generation of Black STEM professionals.

Growing up, I was often asked what I wanted to be. Sometimes I'd answer a wizard or a tiger, and other times I'd answer a lawyer or a doctor, but when it was time to choose my major, I didn't have an answer. It's a conflicting decision to make and even more so when you are young. However, I knew I would pursue something that would fall into the STEM category. My eighth-grade science teacher Mr. Banages first piqued my interest in STEM topics such as engineering and biology. My high school biology teacher Mrs. Mize helped sustain that interest when it was time for me to choose my major. I grew to love and have a passion for the life sciences and engineering, so if I couldn't decide between biology or engineering, why not choose both? I discovered Biomedical engineering and decided that it was just right for me. It has allowed me to bridge my love of engineering and biology while working to improve people's lives locally and beyond. Over the last few decades, women and young girls have begun their involvement in STEM and have excelled. Unfortunately, the increase in educational achievement has yet to be matched in the representation of women working in STEM professions. While women make up approximately twenty-seven percent of STEM fields, the percentage of female minorities in STEM is nearly a quarter of that. When I learned of the STEM Gap, I felt inspired. I realized I could be another African-American woman in the STEM Field, along with many others that make up so little of the STEM Field. Following my completion of my associate's degree in engineering science, I will transfer to a Bachelor's Degree program in engineering at the University of Illinois at Chicago. I will continue to be a member of the Society of Women Engineers. As I network with more women, I will be able to find more women who share my common interests when it comes to encouraging women and young girls to pursue STEM fields and bridging the STEM gender gap. By becoming a Biomedical Engineer, I want to create revolutionary tools that can be used to help hospitals and provide comfort and calmness to hospital visitors. I hope to become an inspiration for female minorities through my efforts as a biomedical engineer. As a young black woman, I aim to encourage the next generation of black girls and boys to interact and build relationships with their communities. I want them to see that they are welcome and represented in the STEM community. It is essential for them to know that STEM allows them to make a difference in their community. I plan to achieve my goals with the help of others in my community. I aspire to create a network of Black STEM professionals passionate about closing the STEM GAP and positively contributing to our communities by utilizing STEM. With strong collaboration, I am confident that our combined efforts will make a lasting impact and help bring about a brighter future for the next generation of Black STEM professionals.

A lot of people would buy something that they wanted or wished for. Maybe it was those cherry red shoes they saw in at the mall or that green jacket they saw on a manniquin. I could maybe use it to buy new clothing that I want or save it for the car that I've been wanting. But you see the problem with these things is that they aren't a necessity, they are wants. Necessities are far more important than personal wants, especially when your're mother is trying to juggle five children on her own. Over the past few years, the prices of everything have gone up. Food, Clothing, Gas etc may have only seemed to increase by a few dollars, but in my household, those few extra dollars are a determining factor of what my family can and cannot buy. Among our necessities, food and toiletries are our top priorities. If I was given $1,000 right now, I would buy two months worth of groceries and give the rest of the money to my mother so that she can drive to and from work without having to worry about how she will compete with the raised gas prices.

1. I deserve this scholarship because I don't like Brussel sprouts 2. Career goals~ to be a professional sleeper 3. When I had to hop over a stepping stool earlier this morning.

Introducing, the Father of Modern Day Genetics, Gregor Mendel. He identified the many rules of heredity, as well as, dominant and recessive genes. Fun facts ~ He failed to become a certified teacher, His work was not recognized until after his death in 1884.