From a young age, I have been captivated by architecture, drawn to its unique ability to merge art, science, and innovation into tangible creations that shape the world around us. To me, architecture represents the power of creation. My passion for sustainable design, driven by cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning, embodies my vision of a future where buildings contribute positively to both human well-being and environmental resilience. During my eight years of academic pursuit, from undergraduate studies to my current doctoral program, I have dedicated myself to mastering the principles of architecture and sustainability. My research has focused on leveraging technology to address the urgent need for energy-efficient and climate-adaptive buildings. By publishing my findings in academic journals, I aim to contribute to a growing body of knowledge that will inspire innovative solutions in the field. Currently, I am working on housing projects for underprivileged communities in San Antonio, striving to promote justice in well-being and environmental sustainability. This initiative has strengthened my belief that architecture is not merely about designing buildings; it is about empowering individuals and addressing systemic inequalities through thoughtful and sustainable design. My journey has not been without its challenges. Raised by my grandmother, who became ill during my master's studies, I faced the difficult task of balancing my academic responsibilities with caregiving. Her unwavering belief in my potential motivated me to persevere through the hardships, even after her passing shortly after my master’s defense. This loss was profoundly personal, yet it strengthened my resolve to honor her legacy by pursuing my dreams with even greater determination. Two months after her passing, I took a language proficiency exam, and three months later, I was accepted into the doctoral program at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As an international student, I now find myself at the intersection of architecture, technology, and education, where I am not only expanding my knowledge but also empowering others by teaching climate change adaptation strategies to architecture students. This opportunity to educate future designers is both a profound privilege and a significant responsibility, further fueling my desire to make a lasting impact in my field. Looking ahead, my goal is to deepen my expertise in artificial intelligence to establish a startup dedicated to sustainable architectural solutions. I envision developing tools that assist architects in designing smarter, greener buildings, fostering a future where sustainability is not merely an aspiration but a standard practice. This scholarship would offer me the opportunity to participate in AI boot camps, equipping me with the skills necessary to transform my vision into reality. I strive to bring the same passion and perseverance to my field, contributing to a world where innovation and sustainability coexist harmoniously. My ambition is not only to excel professionally but also to create opportunities for others, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where all voices can play a role in shaping a better future. This scholarship would serve as a crucial stepping stone in my journey to transform challenges into opportunities.

Life brings about challenges that shape our perspectives and test our resilience. For me, these challenges began early, growing up as a homosexual in Iran, a country steeped in religious and traditional values. From childhood, I experienced rejection, marginalization, and defeat simply for being myself. Despite this, I refused to let adversity define me. Instead, I channeled my energy into academic excellence and empowered others who faced similar struggles. Throughout my academic journey in Iran, I pushed beyond the barriers imposed by societal norms. Despite discrimination, I graduated at the top of my undergraduate class and earned second place in my master’s program, receiving multiple awards for academic distinction. These achievements were not just personal victories but also a testament to my resilience in the face of systemic bias. Yet, beneath the surface, I struggled. The pressure to conform and the constant fear of being ostracized took a toll on my mental health. Depression and anxiety were familiar companions, yet I found solace in small, meaningful acts of resistance, supporting friends, advocating for inclusion, and creating safe spaces for others in my community. These moments of connection and solidarity kept me moving forward. When I chose to pursue my PhD in the United States, I sought not only academic growth but also the opportunity to live authentically in a society that champions equality. Arriving as a fully funded PhD student felt like a validation of my efforts and identity. However, I soon realized that even here, the shadow of stereotypes persists. Navigating a new culture, coupled with the absence of my close support network, has reignited feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. There are days when the weight of loneliness and stress feels overwhelming. Despite these struggles, I remain committed to creating positive change. The isolation I have experienced has deepened my empathy for others facing similar battles. I have sought out LGBTQIA+ communities to find solidarity and to contribute my voice to the broader fight for equality. If awarded the Elijah’s Helping Hand Scholarship, I would use it to bridge the gaps in my journey. With the funds, I aim to connect with more LGBTQIA+ communities across the United States, fostering dialogue and mutual support. These interactions would not only enrich my understanding but also allow me to share my experiences and insights, contributing to a collective effort to dismantle stereotypes and promote inclusivity. I dream of a world where no one has to hide who they are to succeed, where diversity is celebrated rather than tolerated. This scholarship represents more than financial aid. It symbolizes hope and the opportunity to continue my journey of empowerment and advocacy. By writing this essay, I feel significantly better. Thanks for this opportunity! I would like to conclude this essay with a powerful excerpt from Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic speech: “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’” This dream resonates deeply with my aspirations for a world where equality and inclusivity prevail.