My name is Ameir Dawson. I am a 17-year-old high school senior from Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. I am deeply immersed in the worlds of robotics and classical music. I hold the position of first chair in my school orchestra and actively participate in competitive robotics. As someone with high-functioning autism, I navigate the world differently, which has shaped my perspective and approach to challenges, both in personal and academic spheres. Growing up in a community that values faith, love, and service, these principles have become the cornerstone of my aspirations. They guide my ambitions to leverage technology for social good, particularly through my chosen field of electrical engineering. I am driven by a vision to integrate these values into my future innovations, aiming to create solutions that advance technological capabilities and foster community well-being and cohesion. Love for me is rooted in empathy and understanding—qualities that are essential when designing technology intended for public use. In robotics, creating machines that interact with humans and the environment in beneficial ways requires a deep understanding of diverse human needs. My goal is to design robots that enhance daily living, particularly for those with disabilities, ensuring that these technologies are accessible and enhancing the quality of life. This endeavor is about showing love through inclusivity and support, making sure that no one is left behind as we advance into the future. Faith is a guiding light in my journey, not just in a religious sense, but also faith in humanity’s capacity for kindness and innovation. I believe in our collective ability to overcome challenges and improve our surroundings through science and technology. My career aspiration in electrical engineering is fueled by this faith: faith that we can create environmentally sustainable technologies, faith that we can build systems that protect and preserve rather than harm, and faith that through continuous learning and adaptation, we can ensure a better future for the next generations. My pursuit of an education at an HBCU is part of this—seeking knowledge in an environment that encourages strong moral values and respect for heritage and community. Community Service is the practical application of love and faith. It involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone to engage with and contribute to the welfare of others directly. Throughout my high school career, I have been involved in various service activities, from organizing local clean-up drives to participating in charity events through our school orchestra. As I move into college, I plan to engage more deeply with technological initiatives that address urgent community issues like waste management and healthcare accessibility. For instance, using my skills in robotics, I envision contributing to or initiating projects like developing affordable robotic aids for elderly community members or creating educational programs that empower youth with tech skills. These initiatives not only address immediate needs but also help build a community's capacity to sustain itself and thrive through technological advancements. In essence, my ambition is not just to succeed as an engineer but to do so in a way that reflects my values of love, faith, and service. By focusing on projects that emphasize environmental sustainability, inclusivity, and community empowerment, I aim to make a positive impact in the world. The journey through engineering, enriched with these principles, will enable me to contribute meaningfully to society, helping build stronger, more connected communities. This path reflects my deepest beliefs and my commitment to being a force for good in the world.

My name is Ameir Dawson, and I am a 17-year-old African American high school senior with high-functioning autism. My life revolves around two major passions: robotics and classical music. I have the privilege of being the first chair in my school's classical orchestra and an active member of the competitive robotics team. Balancing these interests has honed my technical acumen and enriched my leadership skills, contributing to a solid academic record with a 3.5 GPA. From a young age, I have been fascinated by how things work, especially machines and electronic devices. This curiosity evolved into a passion for robotics, where I found a platform to apply my skills in problem-solving and innovation. The field of robotics offers endless possibilities to create, adapt, and improve technology that can significantly impact our daily lives and the environment. This potential for innovation and service drives my ambition to pursue a career in electrical engineering with a focus on robotics. In the future, I envision myself as an engineer at the forefront of designing robotic systems that address critical global challenges. I dream of developing technology that enhances efficiency and sustainability, particularly in industries like waste management, healthcare, and renewable energy. These sectors stand to benefit immensely from advancements in robotics, from reducing human exposure to hazardous environments to optimizing energy consumption in major cities. My decision to attend a historically Black college or university (HBCU) is inspired by personal aspirations and historical significance. HBCUs are known for nurturing academic environments, cultivating leadership and excellence among African American students. The supportive community and the rich cultural heritage of HBCUs create a unique educational experience that resonates with my identity and values. This choice is also deeply personal. Throughout my educational journey, I have sought spaces where I can thrive not just academically but also socially and emotionally. HBCUs promise an environment where I can relate to peers who share similar backgrounds and experiences, which is particularly important as someone navigating the challenges associated with autism. The inclusive atmosphere of HBCUs, coupled with their commitment to empowering the African American community, aligns with my needs for a supportive learning environment. Moreover, HBCUs have a storied tradition of producing leaders and innovators in various fields, including science and engineering. This legacy of excellence and the focus on uplifting African American students in STEM fields inspire me. I am eager to contribute to and benefit from this legacy by bringing my unique perspective to solve complex engineering problems. As I look to the future, I am motivated by the possibilities an education at an HBCU can offer. I anticipate engaging with professors and mentors who are not only leaders in their fields but also understand the cultural nuances that affect African American students in academic and professional spaces. This mentorship is crucial for developing my skills and navigating the path to becoming a successful engineer. Ultimately, I aim to leverage the knowledge and experiences I gain from an HBCU to make meaningful contributions to society through engineering. Whether it's designing robots to clean oceans or developing automated systems to improve healthcare delivery, I aim to be at the forefront of technological innovation. Attending an HBCU is not just a choice for quality education; it's a step towards fulfilling my potential and impacting the world.