As a senior at Central High School in Arkansas, my journey has been marked by a fervent passion for technology, an insatiable love for learning, and a dedication to community service. Coding, reading, listening to music, and sewing are not just hobbies; they are the building blocks of my vision for a charity aimed at harnessing technology for social good. Serving as the class president for the graduating class of 2024 has been an honor and an opportunity to advocate for the needs of my peers. This role has instilled in me a sense of responsibility and leadership, fostering an environment of unity and shared aspirations. My participation in the school's book club has been a source of intellectual stimulation and camaraderie, cultivating critical thinking skills and a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling. Volunteering as a tutor in the after-school program has been a highlight of my high school experience, offering a firsthand look into the educational challenges students face from 7th to 12th grade. This experience has solidified my belief in the transformative power of education and inspired me to consider how technology can play a pivotal role in creating equal opportunities for all. My post-high school plans involve immersing myself in the dynamic world of technology. Whether through internships at start-ups or contributions to large tech companies, my goal is to play a part in something transformative that contributes to the greater good. If given a chance to start my own charity, "Tech for Tomorrow," I would be dedicated to leveraging technology for social good, specifically focusing on education. The mission would be clear: empower students facing socio-economic challenges, limited access to educational resources, and a glaring digital divide. Volunteers in "Tech for Tomorrow" would be pivotal in shaping the organization's impact. Tech mentors would guide students through coding projects and demystify the world of technology. Educational ambassadors would conduct outreach programs, engaging with local schools and parents to raise awareness about the importance of technology in education. Resource developers would craft online resources and interactive learning modules tailored to supplement traditional classroom learning. Access advocates would secure donations of tech equipment for distribution and implement initiatives to ensure access to affordable or accessible internet services. "Tech for Tomorrow" aims to catalyze positive change by using technology as a tool for education. I hope to break down barriers and empower the next generation to reach their full potential by giving students the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. As I look ahead to my post-high school endeavors, I am convinced that technology, when harnessed for social good, can be a powerful force for positive change. The journey to bridge the digital divide begins with a commitment to education, and "Tech for Tomorrow" stands as a testament to this vision.

From an early age, I was captivated by the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The allure of unraveling the mysteries of the universe and contributing to innovations that shape our world has been a driving force in my decision to pursue a degree in STEM. This path, however, is not merely a personal choice; it is a conscious commitment to breaking barriers and making a lasting impact as a person of color. Growing up, I was fortunate to be surrounded by strong, inspirational women who defied societal norms and excelled in STEM fields. These women, whether through their groundbreaking research, technological advancements, or engineering feats, became beacons of possibility for me. Their stories, often marked by resilience and determination, served as a testament to the potential within individuals regardless of gender or ethnicity. While the STEM landscape has evolved, the underrepresentation of women and people of color remains a challenge. This stark reality further fueled my determination to pursue a career in STEM, fulfilling my passion for discovery and contributing to the broader goal of fostering diversity and inclusion in these fields. As a person of color, my presence in STEM spaces is not just a personal achievement but a step towards dismantling systemic barriers that have historically limited the participation of underrepresented groups. My journey is fueled by the belief that diversity catalyzes innovation, bringing together unique perspectives that drive progress and problem-solving. By choosing STEM, I am embracing my passion and the responsibility to pave the way for others who may need more representation. One of the critical ways I aspire to impact the STEM field as a person of color is by actively engaging in mentorship and outreach programs. Representation matters, and seeing someone who looks like you succeeding in a field can be a powerful motivator. Through mentorship, I hope to guide and inspire aspiring individuals from underrepresented communities, providing them with the support and encouragement needed to overcome challenges and pursue their STEM dreams. In addition to mentorship, I aim to contribute to research and projects that address societal challenges and disparities. The diversity of experiences that individuals from different backgrounds bring to the table is an invaluable asset in designing solutions that are not only technically sound but also culturally sensitive. By actively participating in research that addresses issues affecting marginalized communities, I hope to showcase the transformative power of diversity in creating holistic and impactful solutions. Moreover, I am committed to advocating for diversity and inclusion within STEM institutions. This involves actively participating in discussions about representation, challenging biases, and promoting policies that foster an inclusive environment. By being a vocal advocate for change, I aspire to contribute to the ongoing efforts to create more equitable opportunities and dismantle the barriers that hinder the full participation of underrepresented groups in STEM. My decision to pursue a degree in STEM is rooted in a passion for discovery, innovation, and a commitment to breaking down barriers. As a person of color, my journey in STEM is not just about personal achievement; it is a deliberate effort to inspire, mentor, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse STEM landscape. By actively engaging in mentorship, impactful research, and advocacy, I want to leave a lasting imprint that advances the frontiers of knowledge and opens doors for those who, like me, dream of making their mark in the vast and exciting world of STEM.

Mathematics, the universal language of the cosmos, holds a special place in my heart. Its intricate complexity and the sheer beauty that unfolds within its equations and solutions captivated me. At its essence, math is an art form, a dance of numbers and symbols that challenges the mind and unveils the underlying order of the universe. Each mathematical problem is a puzzle, inviting us on a cerebral adventure of analytical thinking and creative problem-solving. The joy of unraveling these puzzles reveals the elegance woven into the fabric of numbers. Beyond its complexity, mathematics is a global language, fostering communication and understanding across cultures. Its universality creates a shared space for individuals worldwide, united by a common appreciation for the elegance of mathematical principles. The pursuit of mathematical knowledge teaches us resilience and precision. It's a journey that enriches our understanding of the world, cultivating perseverance and a sense of interconnectedness. Each mathematical concept contributes to our intellectual landscape, refining our cognitive abilities and sparking the joy of discovery. My love for math is rooted in the awe and wonder it inspires. It invites us to explore the frontiers of human understanding, unlocking the universe's secrets while fostering intellectual and spiritual growth. The complexity of mathematical equations and the satisfaction of their solutions create a harmonious blend that continues to fuel my passion for this timeless art, connecting us to the essence of existence.

Growing up in a small community in Arkansas, my journey into the STEM world has been challenging and rewarding. Raised in an environment where opportunities and inspiration were often scarce, I developed a fervent desire to break through these limitations and pave the way for others in my community. Now, as an aspiring STEM student, I aim to leverage a computer science career to fulfill my dreams and inspire and uplift those around me. From an early age, I found solace and excitement in the world of technology. The power of computers to transform ideas into reality fascinated me, and I soon discovered the vast potential of computer science to create positive change. The lack of resources in my small community fueled my determination to pursue a path in STEM, and I recognized the transformative impact that technology could have on individuals and communities. One of my primary ambitions is to develop sustainable technology that addresses pressing environmental concerns. In a world of climate change, the tech industry must embrace eco-friendly practices. Through my career, I aim to contribute to the development of software and systems that not only meet the needs of today but also consider the needs of future generations. This involves exploring energy-efficient computing, optimizing algorithms, and promoting sustainable software development practices. In addition to sustainable technology, I am committed to making meaningful contributions to the open-source community. Open source is about code, collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and global community-building. Engaging with open-source projects enhances my technical skills and allows me to be part of something larger than myself. I see open source as a vehicle for positive change, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to solve problems, innovate, and create solutions that benefit society. With its profound impact on human lives, the healthcare sector is another arena where I aspire to make a difference. By applying computer science to healthcare innovations, I envision contributing to advancements that improve patient care, streamline medical processes, and enhance the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. Whether through developing innovative applications, leveraging data analytics in medical research, or integrating technology into patient care, I see the potential for computer science to revolutionize healthcare and make it more accessible and effective. Education is a powerful catalyst for change, and I am passionate about ensuring that the benefits of technology are accessible to all. Coming from a community where opportunities for STEM education were limited, I understand the importance of breaking down barriers and creating pathways for aspiring minds. I plan to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers through educational initiatives. This involves providing resources and mentorship and actively engaging with local schools and community organizations to establish programs that promote STEM education. In the heart of my goals lies a deep-rooted desire to inspire and empower kids in communities like mine. I want to be a beacon of possibility, demonstrating that regardless of where you come from, you can aspire to and achieve greatness in computer science by sharing my journey, offering mentorship, and actively participating in community outreach. As I embark on this journey, I recognize the challenges ahead, but I am fueled by a sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact. The small community in Arkansas that shaped my beginnings will be the wellspring of inspiration that propels me forward. Through sustainable technology, open source contributions, healthcare innovations, and educational initiatives, I aspire to build a fulfilling career in computer science and leave a lasting legacy of positive change.

In the ever-expanding universe of computer science, I am drawn to the captivating field of Natural Language Processing (NLP). As a prospective scholar, I aspire to bridge the gap between science fiction and science fact, particularly in human-machine communication. This essay serves as a testament to my commitment to advancing NLP and highlights the transformative impact it can have on our technological landscape. From the moment I encountered the enchanting dialogues between humans and intelligent machines in science fiction narratives, a seed was planted in my mind – a seed that would grow into a profound interest in NLP. The seamless exchange of ideas and emotions through natural language became a source of inspiration and a guiding light for my academic journey. As a student navigating the corridors of computer science, I witnessed the rapid evolution of NLP. Language translation tools, chatbots, and virtual assistants are not mere figments of imagination but tangible manifestations of the convergence of fiction and reality. The algorithms underpinning NLP systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, delving beyond syntax to capture the intricacies of the inherent semantics, emotion, and cultural context in human communication. My academic pursuit within NLP is driven by the desire to bridge the communication gap between humans and machines. The dream of conversing with machines in a natural, intuitive manner, as depicted in science fiction, propels my commitment to contribute meaningfully to this field. The applications of NLP extend far beyond the confines of academic curiosity. Real-world implications are profound, with language translation tools breaking down barriers and sentiment analysis shaping marketing strategies. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance; it signifies a shared commitment to advancing technology for the benefit of society. With this support, I aim to intensify my efforts in NLP research, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and contributing to realizing futuristic scenarios. The scholarship will catalyze my academic journey, enabling me to attend conferences, collaborate with experts, and stay at the forefront of advancements in NLP. In pursuing science fiction into science fact, I envision a future where NLP technologies redefine human-machine relationships. Conversations with virtual assistants will not merely be transactional; they will be nuanced, empathetic, and tailored to individual needs. The impact will be profound, extending beyond technological advancements to societal transformation. As a scholar, my commitment is not only to the academic exploration of NLP but also to translate these advancements into tangible solutions that enhance the lives of individuals worldwide. My journey in computer science is an odyssey fueled by the desire to unravel the mysteries of NLP and bring the fantastical visions of science fiction into the realm of reality. This scholarship is not just an investment in my academic pursuits but an investment in a future where technology seamlessly integrates with human experience.

Embarking on a journey to master various programming languages isn't just about learning syntax; it's about wielding a versatile toolkit that empowers me to tackle a myriad of technological challenges. From the flexibility of Python to the efficiency of C++ and the ubiquity of Java, my goal is to fluently speak the language of machines, ensuring that I can navigate diverse software development landscapes with confidence. Simultaneously, delving into the intricacies of machine learning algorithms is like unlocking the secrets behind the curtain of artificial intelligence. It's not just about coding; it's about understanding the logic and mathematics that enable machines to learn, adapt, and make decisions. Whether it's grasping the fundamentals or unraveling the complexities of advanced algorithms, my journey into machine learning is a quest to harness the transformative power of AI. In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, staying updated with the latest advancements is not a luxury; it's a necessity. From quantum computing breakthroughs to cybersecurity innovations and the unfolding possibilities in cloud technology, I'm committed to riding the wave of innovation. The goal is not just to keep pace with change but to be at the forefront, ready to embrace and contribute to the technological future. Yet, being a proficient computer scientist isn't just about technical acumen; it's about being a problem solver. Viewing software development as a puzzle waiting to be solved, I aspire to craft elegant solutions that address real-world problems. It involves understanding user needs, refining algorithms iteratively, and embracing the dynamic nature of the development process. Beyond the lines of code, I recognize the importance of grounding myself in the physical world. A healthy work-life balance isn't a mere ideal but a fundamental aspect of sustainable success. Reading isn't just a leisure activity; it's a gateway to diverse perspectives and continuous learning. Good sleep habits aren't just for rest; they ensure that my mind remains sharp and ready for the challenges ahead. Moreover, engaging in regular workouts isn't solely about fitness; it's a holistic approach to well-being that enhances both body and mind. Amidst the digital whirlwind, spending quality time with loved ones isn't a distraction; it's a reminder that life extends beyond the screen and that meaningful connections are the essence of a fulfilling existence. Looking forward, my vision extends beyond code for the sake of code. It involves the convergence of computer science expertise with a passion for well-being. Envision a meditation app that goes beyond guidance, adapting to individual needs through machine learning algorithms. Imagine personalized sleep and exercise recommendations, creating a unique journey toward improved health and well-being. In essence, I aim to be a techno-wizard with a heart – someone who doesn't merely craft software but develops solutions resonating with the human experience. Merging technical prowess with an understanding of balanced living, my goal is to create applications that positively impact the lives of teens and young adults. By bringing together my interests and expertise, I envision a future where technology becomes a force for good, aligning with my values and goals. The path ahead is exciting, filled with the promise of innovation and positive change. Navigating this journey isn't just about shaping my future but contributing to a world where the fusion of technology and well-being creates a brighter and more harmonious tomorrow.

  I feel something beautiful in myself. My inner energy, my outer aura All that remains is to teach me self-discipline. My inner self shines as bright as the sun.   My personality is a sweet fruit. However, some teeth may find it too sweet. The love I have for myself weighs a ton. I know I may crumble under pressure. I know I may even stumble on an obstacle in life. I like it when people are around me and depend on me. Allow me to be their good company. which seems to make me feel good inside at the end. When I wake up, the first thing I do is look in the mirror  And what do I see? I see me, the loving being. I love being me with my beautiful energy and personality.     I love myself. I am beautiful. Affirmations can be soulful. I have a wonderful personality and an attitude that can put me on the spot. And my attitude can get me into trouble a lot. Even though I have flaws, I can still accept myself for who I am. and I wouldn’t change myself for the world.  

I feel myself unraveling under the still rhythm of the rain. How gravity stretches time—with every drop of rain, I feel my time coming to an end. Feeling the little drops of rain on my skin, I can't think of enjoying the silent rhythm of the rain. My ears are getting cold, edging me to forget and go back inside to warm up. As I feel my body temperature dropping, The wind from the west is blowing cold air in my face. I can´t take it anymore, but the pleasurable feeling of loneliness creeps in. with the soft rhythm of the rain. My bloodshot eyes from above-caught people screaming for me, "Stop," "Don't do it," and "Don't do this to yourself," yet they were nothing but whispers to me going alone with the wind. Going with the flow, Following the crowd, Depending on other people for my sake The rain fell onto my skin again, but with a sharp sting. feeling sharp to the point of cutting me, like paper. But I don´t mind The faint rhythm of the rain is calming. making me forget my surroundings and the people there. As a tear fell from my eyes, I opened my arms to embrace my sudden fate. I fall, along with the rhythm of the rain, into a place of unknowns.

The Lewis Ohana Scholarship will help me attain both my academic and professional objectives. Despite my best efforts, my part-time tutoring job hasn't been enough recently due to the sky-high expense of tuition. While I'm an undergraduate student, I want to spend the majority of my time studying, however, I do plan to work on campus. By reducing my tuition and the number of hours I'll have to work during my studies, this scholarship will be helpful. I can continue to succeed academically in this way. The additional time will allow me to look for an internship in a tech company. There could be thousands of students who would need this scholarship money more than I do, but I believe that I should be awarded this scholarship because I have the determination to succeed and to make everyone around me proud. This scholarship will allow me to pursue the education I need to achieve these goals. Living in a rural area, Helena-West Helena, Arkansas comes with its own challenges. Rural locations can be lovely and peaceful places to live, but they also have significant obstacles to face. These issues include a dearth of medical specialists and facilities, human services, and public transportation. Helena-West Helena also has its advantages and disadvantages. Again, it can be a beautiful, relaxing place for people to live, but it also lacks many of the cultural advantages and other amenities that other cities feature. I have experienced difficulties throughout my life, which has occasionally made living difficult. Even though some of them were difficult to handle, they gave me strength and helped me to become the woman I am today. I am aware that everyone will experience misfortune at some point in their lives, but since how you respond to it and get through it shapes your character, it is worth it. In the next five years, I envision myself as a person with more knowledge and experience, and I'll search for new possibilities to advance my knowledge and sharpen my talents. I believe that joining your company will help me gain more knowledge and experience. I want to be satisfied with my decisions and be able to accept and forgive, and most importantly, live up to my academic and career expectations that have or did for myself. While I'm finishing this scholarship essay, I'm conscious of the errors I made while writing it, and I don't mind if I don't get the scholarship. I feel more certain that I completed my tasks now, and I value the opportunity to win.

The area of technology I'm interested in studying is software development. The demand for software development is high. The need for technology-driven goods like smartphone apps and other products is what fuels this increase. While some programmers create applications, system programmers create operating systems and user interfaces. Typically, students must hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics, which I am passionate about pursuing. As creating computer programs allows me to employ my creativity and problem-solving abilities, I want to be a software developer. With any luck, a major in computer science will open doors to a wide range of specialties and employment opportunities. Although software development wasn't my initial course of study, I'm delighted I found it. I had initially intended to pursue a career in agriculture, but after completing my sophomore year of high school and enrolling in a computer science course, I changed my mind. I truly would enjoy having a career as a software development engineer. I strive to discipline myself to change the world through technology. Make sure everyone has a place to belong. Find solutions to media problems, such as harmful media influence on children and youth, advertising manipulation, and the promotion of excessive consumerism and materialism.

As a junior in high school who is passionate about majoring in computer science when I'm able to go to college is one of the many reasons I why think I'm the best candidate for receiving this scholarship. My first exposure to computer science came in, doing my sophomore year of high school, having to take a computer science course as a requirement to graduate, so I thought about just "try your best and make it through", but over time I came to love it. It thrilled me to learn that the small-scale issues I was tackling with a few lines of code could expand to more meaningful, expansive projects. Hopefully, after college, and receiving the bachelor's degree work towards would be a bachelor's degree. provided a safe space where black women and girls can come together, encourage and motivate one another, and help each other on their journey into tech life. I want to do the same for other black women and girls too, or women of color. I want to give black women or women of color in technology and those who aspire to work in the field access to a community, resources, and opportunities. Have an entirely female team that is committed to making that goal possible. This scholarship will bring me one step closer to that goal. Black women have made important discoveries in technology. Every experience I had with computer science shaped me to become a woman in tech in the future. There may be thousands of students who have a greater need for this scholarship money than I have, but I think I should get it because I'm determined to succeed and make everyone proud of me. This reason I gave might be less impressive compared to others, but it's the truth. I'm aware that I made mistakes when writing this scholarship essay, and I'm not perfect but this scholarship will mean so much if win this, but if I don't at least now I am confident that I followed through on my responsibility.

I am a junior in high school and my passionate about majoring in computer science when I'm able to go to college, and the degree I will work towards would be a bachelor's degree. My first exposure to computer science came in, doing my sophomore year of high school, having to take a computer science course as a requirement to graduate, so I thought about just "trying and make it through", but I came to love it. I started easily by using python. I say it was easy because I could take notes, watch videos, and communicate with other students, pass the course with a 96.83 before the first semester was over, and do AP Java. I have to admit, Java was a little hectic every once in a while, but nothing a little thinking can't do with the same amount of determination and dedication. I pass the course with a 93.00. Doing this time, I realized I enjoyed the puzzles and work in my CS class more abundantly than the logic and problem-solving in my other classes. It thrilled me to learn that the small-scale issues I was tackling with a few lines of code could expand to more meaningful, expansive projects. My school enters some fellow students and me into a coding competition, All-Region, and All-State Coding Competition in Arkansas. My teammates and I were in the Top 100 and awarded amazing artifacts. Black women have made important strides in technology. Every experience I had with computer science shaped me to become a woman in tech in the future, and one woman whom I admired kept me on track, Kimberly Bryant. Kimberly Bryant is an African American electrical engineer who has held positions with Merck, Novartis Vaccines, Diagnostics, and Genentech in the biotechnology sector. Ms. Bryant established the Black Girls Code in 2011, a nonprofit to educate African American girls in technology and computer programming. Kimberly Bryant provided a safe space where black women and girls can come together, encourage and motivate one another, and help each other on their journey into tech life. I want to do the same for other black women and girls too, or women of color. I want to give black women or women of color in technology and those who aspire to work in the field access to a community, resources, and opportunities. Have an entirely female team that is committed to making that goal possible. This scholarship will bring me one step closer to that goal.

Growing up in a black household, and with parents being middle class, money was limited. The same phrase will always come up: "money is tight right now" will be used against my siblings and me when we predominantly wanted something. "Generational Wealth" was not in my parent's vocabulary, yet my mom was able to make it through college, thanks to student loans. Although I'm still young, I understand the importance of money. It's the value we need to live, to get things done, and to have nice things for ourselves and our families. Generational wealth influences social mobility, economic stability, and access to resources. When one generation enjoys money until it is time to pass it down to the next generation is important. Generational wealth means to me it's crucial since it preserves a family's stability and can help guarantee that the following generation prospers. What I plan to do to achieve generational wealth in the future would be 1. Have a talk with my parents about generational wealth or wealth. Talking about money with my family is the first, less visible step to establishing generational wealth. To make wise financial decisions, it's crucial to ensure that my family has financial independence. 2. Try to have my parents invest in something meaningful. Real estate investing can cause a large rise in assets. Two other very different but important strategies are making a will and taking out life insurance to provide financial security to your family in the event of your death. I designed these tools to build generational wealth and secure your family's financial future. Achieving generational wealth seems easy to apply yourself, but when it comes to money, nothing is as easy as it seems. Generational wealth was never a concern in my family. Many of my grandparents taught their kids the value of perseverance and hard work, but they never realized the importance of building and handing down generational wealth. My goal is to make sure that the younger members of my family give priority to this idea and work to ensure that future generations are aware of and motivated to build generational wealth. I think generational wealth is not just only important to me, but to my fellow peers. Money shouldn't be a problem anymore for me or my family. One day I hope that all the sacrifices that my parents made, just to make sure that I'll have everything I need in the real world, I can pay them back.

A song that has a very important message to me is "Wish Someone Would Care" by Irma Thomas. It was released in 1964, a year when a major change happened. Women's rights and the Civil Rights Act were established. The message that stood out to me was that being a black woman in the 1960s came with its trials and tribulations. In 1960, African American women had few options in practically every area of life, including the home and business. The traditional path for a woman was to marry in her early 20s, have children, and spend the rest of her life caring for the home. At the time she recorded her song, "Wish Someone Would Care," Thomas was 22, the mother of two little kids, and in the middle of her second divorce. She was angry and tired, and she wished someone would care. Black women still have to go through the same trials and tribulations as in the 1960s. Change should happen, and women of color shouldn't have to carry such burdens on their backs anymore. With lyrics from her song explaining themselves, "Some folks think you're happy when you wear your smile," What about your tribulations and all of your trials? Smiles conceal a great deal. The good, the bad, the hurt—all of this goes to "And I wish, oh how I wish, oh how I wish someone cared."