While traipsing into a field with my dad, I was convinced we were about to get mauled by a bear. We were exploring the land near my grandmother’s house in Edwards, Colorado. It was a dark night; our only guidance was from the pinpricks of starlight winking above us. My dad had promised me he would take me out to photograph the Milky Way, and I was starting to regret taking him up on that offer. Two tourists in the Colorado wilderness at night -- what could go wrong? As soon as I caught a glimpse of the Milky Way, my doubts melted away. I had never seen a sky as clear as it was that night, especially not from my light-polluted Milwaukee suburb. I will never forget the feeling of wonder that engulfed me as I gazed up at the hazy swirls of stars. I was looking into infinity; I was face to face with nature’s greatest mysteries. Suddenly, everything seemed possible: God, aliens, life after death -- how could they not be real? How could anything be impossible in a universe so endless? I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. Coding and computer science have fascinated me for years; I could spend hours researching how technology applies to astronomy. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life uncovering the mysteries of the universe, but how could I apply my talent for computer science to outer space? The answer lies in the fascinating new development of artificial intelligence. My dream is to design the AI algorithms that space exploration companies like NASA use to find patterns and unravel the secrets of the universe. There may come a time when artificial intelligence will detect patterns in the galaxy that even the most brilliant scientists in the world would miss. I want to be a part of these breakthroughs. I want to use my computer science knowledge to advance artificial intelligence and write the programs that teach us about the beautiful universe we live in. We can all benefit from learning about space. Understanding why the world functions the way it does and even inquiring about why we are here is not only fascinating, but essential. Learning about space inspires people; it inspires me. Making scientific discoveries using AI gets us one step closer to tackling huge mysteries like the origin of the universe. It sparks people’s interest and gives perspective to our day-to-day problems. If everyone looked up a little more, the world would be a better place. I feel I am deserving of this scholarship because I am wholeheartedly committed to using my education to brighten people's lives. I don't take the privilege of education lightly; I want to use this gift to give back. By using AI to explore the galaxy, I hope to invoke wonder and curiosity in those around me. I hope the bright light of billions of stars illuminates the joy that can be found in all of our lives.

While traipsing into a field with my dad, I was convinced we were about to get mauled by a bear. We were exploring the land near my grandmother’s house in Edwards, Colorado. It was a dark night; our only guidance was from the pinpricks of starlight winking above us. My dad had promised me he would take me out to photograph the Milky Way, and I was starting to regret taking him up on that offer. Two tourists in the Colorado wilderness at night -- what could go wrong? As soon as I caught a glimpse of the Milky Way, my doubts melted away. I had never seen a sky as clear as it was that night, especially not from my light-polluted Milwaukee suburb. I will never forget the feeling of wonder that engulfed me as I gazed up at the hazy swirls of stars. I was looking into infinity; I was face to face with nature’s greatest mysteries. Suddenly, everything seemed possible: God, aliens, life after death -- how could they not be real? How could anything be impossible in a universe so endless? I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. The universe inspires me to show more love to the people in my life, from my best friends to strangers I check out at my cashier job. After all, we all live together under the same sky. You and I gaze at the same moon each night. We are much more alike than we know. Coding and computer science have fascinated me for years; I could spend hours researching how technology applies to astronomy. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life uncovering the mysteries of the universe, but how could I apply my talent for computer science to outer space? The answer lies in the fascinating new development of artificial intelligence. My dream is to design the AI algorithms that space exploration companies like NASA use to find patterns and unravel the secrets of the universe. There may come a time when artificial intelligence will detect patterns in the galaxy that even the most brilliant scientists in the world would miss. I want to be a part of these breakthroughs. I want to use my computer science knowledge to advance artificial intelligence and write the programs that teach us about the beautiful universe we live in. I know it won't always be easy. As the only girl in my AP Physics class, STEM can feel isolating. Sometimes I feel like I need to work twice as hard and be twice as good as the boys in my class to prove that I deserve to be there. But these obstacles aren't stronger than my love for science. I will push through for myself and for all the women that will come after me. We can all benefit from learning about space. Understanding why the world functions the way it does and even inquiring about why we are here is not only fascinating but essential. Learning about space inspires people; it inspires me. Making scientific discoveries using AI gets us one step closer to tackling huge mysteries like the origin of the universe. It sparks people’s interest and gives perspective to our day-to-day problems. If everyone looked up a little more, the world would be a better place. By using AI to explore the galaxy, I hope to invoke wonder and curiosity in those around me. I hope the bright light of billions of stars illuminates the joy that can be found in all of our lives.

While traipsing into a field with my dad, I was convinced we were about to get mauled by a bear. We were exploring the land near my grandmother’s house in Edwards, Colorado. It was a dark night; our only guidance was from the pinpricks of starlight winking above us. My dad had promised me he would take me out to photograph the Milky Way, and I was starting to regret taking him up on that offer. Two tourists in the Colorado wilderness at night -- what could go wrong? As soon as I caught a glimpse of the Milky Way, my doubts melted away. I had never seen a sky as clear as it was that night, especially not from my light-polluted Milwaukee suburb. I will never forget the feeling of wonder that engulfed me as I gazed up at the hazy swirls of stars. I was looking into infinity; I was face to face with nature’s greatest mysteries. Suddenly, everything seemed possible: God, aliens, life after death -- how could it not be real? How could anything be impossible in a universe so endless? I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. The universe inspires me to show more love to the people in my life, from my best friends to strangers I check out at my cashier job. After all, we all live together under the same sky. You and I gaze at the same moon each night. We are much more alike than we know. Coding and computer science have fascinated me for years; I could spend hours researching how technology applies to astronomy. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life uncovering the mysteries of the universe, but how could I apply my talent for computer science to outer space? The answer lies in the fascinating new development of artificial intelligence. While AI isn’t a new concept, we as a society have merely scratched the surface of its potential to revolutionize the field of science. The technology’s uncanny ability to imitate the human brain is intriguing enough, but its emerging importance in astronomy is what truly excites me. My dream is to design the AI algorithms that space exploration companies like NASA use to find patterns and unravel the secrets of the universe. There may come a time when artificial intelligence will detect patterns in the galaxy that even the most brilliant scientists in the world would miss. I want to be a part of these breakthroughs. I want to use my computer science knowledge to advance artificial intelligence and write the programs that teach us about the beautiful universe we live in. We can all benefit from learning about space. Understanding why the world functions the way it does and even inquiring about why we are here is not only fascinating, but essential. Learning about space inspires people; it inspires me. Making scientific discoveries using AI gets us one step closer to tackling huge mysteries like the origin of the universe. It sparks people’s interest and gives perspective to our day-to-day problems. If everyone looked up a little more, the world would be a better place. By using AI to explore the galaxy, I hope to invoke wonder and curiosity in those around me. I hope the bright light of billions of stars illuminates the joy that can be found in all of our lives.

While traipsing into a field with my dad, I was convinced we would get mauled by a bear. We were hiking in Edwards, Colorado. It was a dark night; our only guidance was from the pinpricks of starlight winking above us. My dad had promised me he would take me out to photograph the Milky Way, and I was starting to regret taking him up on that offer. Two tourists in the Colorado wilderness at night -- what could go wrong? When I caught a glimpse of the Milky Way, my doubts melted away. I’d never seen a sky so clear, especially not from my light-polluted Milwaukee suburb. A feeling of wonder engulfed me as I gazed at the hazy swirls of stars. I was looking into infinity; I was face to face with nature’s greatest mysteries. Suddenly, everything seemed possible: God, aliens, life after death -- how could they not be real? How could anything be impossible in a universe so endless? I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. Computer science fascinates me; I’ll spend hours researching how technology applies to astrology. I knew I wanted to spend my life uncovering the mysteries of the universe, but how could I apply my talent for computer science to outer space? The answer lies in the fascinating development of artificial intelligence. We as a society have merely scratched the surface of AI’s potential to revolutionize science. The technology’s uncanny ability to imitate the human brain is intriguing enough, but its emerging importance in astronomy is what excites me. My dream is to design the algorithms that space exploration companies like NASA use to unravel the secrets of the universe. Artificial intelligence might someday detect patterns in the galaxy that even the most brilliant scientists in the world would miss. I want to be a part of these breakthroughs and write the programs that teach us about our beautiful universe. Everyone benefits from learning about space. Understanding why the world functions the way it does is captivating. Space exploration inspires people; it inspires me. It gives perspective to our day-to-day problems. If everyone looked up more, the world would be a better place. By using AI to explore the galaxy, I hope to invoke wonder and curiosity in those around me. I hope the bright light of billions of stars illuminates the joy that can be found in all of our lives.

While traipsing into a field with my dad, I was convinced we were about to get mauled by a bear. We were exploring the land near my grandmother’s house in Edwards, Colorado. It was a dark night; our only guidance was from the pinpricks of starlight winking above us. My dad had promised me he would take me out to photograph the Milky Way, and I was starting to regret taking him up on that offer. Two tourists in the Colorado wilderness at night -- what could go wrong? As soon as I caught a glimpse of the Milky Way, my doubts melted away. I had never seen a sky as clear as it was that night, especially not from my light-polluted Milwaukee suburb. I will never forget the feeling of wonder that engulfed me as I gazed up at the hazy swirls of stars. I was looking into infinity; I was face to face with nature’s greatest mysteries. Suddenly, everything seemed possible: God, aliens, life after death -- how could they not be real? How could anything be impossible in a universe so endless? I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. The universe inspires me to show more love to the people in my life, from my best friends to strangers I check out at my cashier job. I write letters to my friends reminding them of how much they mean to me. I compliment people I don’t know, even if I’m intimidated. After all, we all live together under the same sky. You and I gaze at the same moon each night. We are much more alike than we know. Coding and computer science have fascinated me for years; I could spend hours researching how technology applies to astrology. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life uncovering the mysteries of the universe, but how could I apply my talent for computer science to outer space? The answer lies in the fascinating new development of artificial intelligence. While AI isn’t a new concept, we as a society have merely scratched the surface of its potential to revolutionize the field of science. The technology’s uncanny ability to imitate the human brain is intriguing enough, but its emerging importance in astronomy is what truly excites me. My dream is to design the AI algorithms that space exploration companies like NASA use to find patterns and unravel the secrets of the universe. There may come a time when artificial intelligence will detect patterns in the galaxy that even the most brilliant scientists in the world would miss. I want to be a part of these breakthroughs. I want to use my computer science knowledge to advance artificial intelligence and write the programs that teach us about the beautiful universe we live in. We can all benefit from learning about space. Understanding why the world functions the way it does and even inquiring why we are here is not only fascinating, but essential. Learning about space inspires people; it inspires me. Advancing scientific knowledge using AI gets us one step closer to tackling huge mysteries like the origin of the universe. It sparks people’s interest and gives perspective to our day-to-day problems. If everyone looked up a little more, the world would be a better place. By using AI to explore the galaxy, I hope to invoke wonder and curiosity in those around me. I hope the bright light of billions of stars illuminates the joy that can be found in all of our lives.

While traipsing into a field with my dad, I was convinced we were about to get mauled by a bear. We were exploring the land near my grandmother’s house in Edwards, Colorado. It was a dark night; our only guidance was from the pinpricks of starlight winking above us. My dad had promised me he would take me out to photograph the Milky Way, and I was starting to regret taking him up on that offer. Two tourists in the Colorado wilderness at night -- what could go wrong? As soon as I caught a glimpse of the Milky Way, my doubts melted away. I had never seen a sky as clear as it was that night, especially not from my light-polluted Milwaukee suburb. I will never forget the feeling of wonder that engulfed me as I gazed up at the hazy swirls of stars. I was looking into infinity; I was face to face with nature’s greatest mysteries. Suddenly, everything seemed possible: God, aliens, life after death -- how could they not be real? How could anything be impossible in a universe so endless? I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. Coding and computer science have fascinated me for years; I could spend hours researching how technology applies to astrology. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life uncovering the mysteries of the universe, but how could I apply my talent for computer science to outer space? The answer lies in the fascinating new development of artificial intelligence. While AI isn’t a brand new concept, we as a society have merely scratched the surface of its potential to revolutionize the field of science. The technology’s uncanny ability to imitate the human brain is intriguing enough, but its emerging importance in astronomy is what truly excites me. Modern astrophysics experiments are collecting more data than could ever be analyzed by humans. According to Dan Falk, writer at Quanta Magazine, the Square Kilometer Array Telescope alone generates roughly the same amount of data per year as the entire internet. This is why scientists have begun turning towards AI to analyze these mountains of information and even detect patterns that humans would surely miss. AI is the future of science. There may come a time when it will detect patterns in the galaxy that even the most brilliant scientists in the world would miss. I’ll be studying Computer Science this fall at the University of Notre Dame. One of my goals is to perform undergraduate research at the Center for Astrophysics. I would work alongside professors studying the nature of space-time and the origin of the universe. After college, my dream is to design the algorithms that space exploration companies like NASA use to find patterns and unravel the secrets of the universe. In an endless universe, there is so much to discover. I’m so excited about what AI can become, and I hope to contribute to discoveries that will last a lifetime.

We called ourselves “The Third Placers”. My Destination Imagination team and I had competed at the Regionals competition year after year. Every year, we took third -- just one place away from qualifying for the State tournament. However, a few years ago, we created the opportunity of a lifetime. Our assignment for Destination Imagination that year was to create a project addressing a problem we saw in our community. I instantly thought of the kids with special needs I volunteer with. Jake reminded me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor taught me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it is never too late to get back on my rollerblades. However, outside of a few afternoons a week when we went on local field trips, they had few options for social outlets. My goal became clear: to create a Destination Imagination team for kids with disabilities to compete on. I could hardly sleep that night; my mind was buzzing with how we could recruit kids for the team and how we would present at Regionals. Our next few weeks were busy with creating flyers to hang in school hallways and planning activities for the kids. After weeks of practicing and helping the kids learn public speaking skills, the day of Regionals arrived. I felt so proud when I was watching them perform the skit that we practiced. I never thought a small presentation room could generate that much applause. Our little project took us all the way to Global Finals that year, after receiving first place at the State tournament. However, all of these accomplishments don’t compare to my favorite part of that year: giving the kids the same joy of competing in Destination Imagination that I’ve had over the years. I got to see them laugh, fail, and try again. Even though our town has few extracurriculars for kids with disabilities, we were able to create an amazing experience for them. In the future, I want to continue to give back to people with disabilities. I want more for them than to be catalysts for my own personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they cannot be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that does not correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. This problem cannot be ignored as AI develops. After college, I will dedicate my career to improving the approach toward designing AI algorithms. I will educate coworkers on how we can design more inclusive systems. If others like me take a stand and fight against bias in AI at their respective companies, we can create a world that is inclusive and safe for people with disabilities. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will take this with me as I further my education. As AI takes off, I will ensure that no one is left behind.

I’m not sure if artistic ability is something that can be inherited. If it is, I don’t know which of my parents is to blame for my complete lack of talent in that regard. Growing up, I struggled to accomplish even the simplest of creative tasks. I remember a specific school project during which my group mates and I could not control our laughter at the state of my bubble letters. I’ve always had a deep appreciation of beauty and a love for interesting and unusual things - in short, all the qualities of an artistic person. The only thing missing was any sort of ability to express that. By middle school, I had become fascinated with all forms of digital creation. I spent a lot of time using online website makers to make websites for just about anything I could think of. I loved the way I could be creative and express myself without needing artistic talent. I eventually began using online tools to teach myself how to code so I could build my own websites. Since then, I have learned coding languages including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The programs I’ve been able to create with coding bring so much joy to my family and friends. They might not be the most advanced or groundbreaking, but they make people smile. To me, that’s what art is – any form of expression that brings people joy. I’ve made fortune tellers with personalized outcomes, outfit idea generators, and biographical websites for my sisters. I adore the methodical creativity in coding. Few other hobbies combine logic with personal expression so perfectly. There is a systematic way to write code and certain syntax that must be followed, yet there are no limits on what I can create. The contrast between rules and freedom fascinates me. I can’t wait to see where my favorite hobby takes me. I’ll be studying computer science at the University of Notre Dame this fall, and I’m itching to learn more ways coding can be used creatively. In the future, I hope to apply computer science to my other passions of advocacy and photography. Maybe I’ll be creating AI algorithms that aren’t biased against people with disabilities. Or maybe I’ll be coding my own photography website. Whatever I do, I know it’ll involve code. My drawing skills might be abysmal, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be creative through other mediums. I’m sure my mom would love a hand-made painting to hang on the refrigerator, but for now, she’ll have to settle for playing tic-tac-toe with me in C++.

Provide your favorite example of the perfect match between STEM and Art that exists today and why you believe it to be so. When I was little, I was obsessed with dinosaurs. I collected fossils on walks along Lake Michigan with my dad. Lazy summer days drifted by as I read any dinosaur book I could get my hands on and learned to spell “Micropachycephalosaurus” to impress my sisters’ friends. I’ve grown a great deal since my dinosaur days, but one constant has been my favorite movie: Jurassic Park. Jurassic Park is a battle between man and nature, and– spoiler alert– nature always wins. One quote that defines the movie for me is when Dr. Malcolm says, “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.” Moral questions concerning innovation for innovation’s sake have always been important in society. We see them in works like “Frankenstein”, hear them echoed in debates on genetically altered babies. As someone fascinated with artificial intelligence, these questions hold great relevance to my life. What truly fascinates me, what I could talk about for hours, is the possibility of self-awareness in AI-powered machines. Today, I may sound like a crazy conspiracy theorist from a sci-fi movie. But AI systems can already outperform the human brain at facial recognition and logic games, among other things. What happens when they develop even further? What happens when AI robots can process faster; respond faster; think faster than the human brain? The beauty of Jurassic Park is in the way that the film provokes these questions about modern technology. The bloody outcome of John Hammond’s genius theme park is a harsh warning of what happens when we take technology too far. While it does not address AI specifically, the lesson of the film remains relevant: Where do we draw the line in the advancement of AI? When do we throw in the towel? At what point do we decide that even though we can, maybe we shouldn’t? There is a beautiful scene at the end of the movie in which Alan Grant looks out the window of a helicopter and watches a flock of pelicans glide across the shimmering water below. This scene encompasses everything I love about Jurassic Park without even a word being spoken. Watching those pelicans fly, I think about the millions of years of evolution it took to develop their perfectly aerodynamic bodies and their method of synchronized movement. I think about the sheer power of nature, and how naïve we are to think we could override it. Jurassic Park is the perfect blend of STEM and art. The timeless ethical questions regarding technological development are perfectly complemented by the beauty of the film itself. It might seem like nothing more than a gory dinosaur movie, but under the surface is a stark warning. Let’s hope that AI leaves a positive mark on society…instead of a bite mark. (Required) Tell us a little about who you are and why you wish to pursue a college education? I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my own personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. I want to go to college so I can give back to them on a global scale. I want to fight for their inclusion in the field of study that I love: technology. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. However, I have a lot to learn. I must be thoroughly educated on the technologies used in AI. It is only when I understand these technologies that I can improve them. I will need to learn the ins and outs of how AI algorithms are designed, and how to integrate the needs of disabled people into them. None of this will be possible without first getting an education, but I’m not only in it for the degree. Talking with my professors at college and learning from those above me will give me invaluable insight and help me consider angles I might not have thought of. College also provides opportunities to participate in undergraduate research, and this excites me. Performing research on artificial intelligence in college would help me gain knowledge and experience that I can take with me as my career advances. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my own personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. However, I have a lot to learn. I must be thoroughly educated on the technologies used in AI. It is only when I understand these technologies that I can improve them. I will need to learn the ins and outs of how AI algorithms are designed, and how to integrate the needs of disabled people into them. None of this will be possible without first getting an education, but I’m not only in it for the degree. Talking with my professors at college and learning from those above me will give me invaluable insight and help me consider angles I might not have thought of. College also provides opportunities to participate in undergraduate research, and this excites me. Performing research on artificial intelligence in college would help me gain knowledge and experience that I can take with me as my career advances. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will take this with me as I further my education. Most importantly, I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’m not sure if artistic ability is something that can be inherited. If it is, I don’t know which of my parents is to blame for my complete lack of talent in that regard. Growing up, I struggled to accomplish even the simplest of creative tasks. I remember a specific school project during which my group mates and I could not control our laughter at the state of my bubble letters. I’ve always had a deep appreciation of beauty and a love for interesting and unusual things - in short, all the qualities of an artistic person. The only thing missing was any sort of ability to express that. By middle school, I had become fascinated with all forms of digital creation. I spent a lot of time using online website makers to make websites for just about anything I could think of. I loved the way I could be creative and express myself without needing artistic talent. I eventually began using online tools to teach myself how to code so I could build my own websites. Since then, I have learned coding languages including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The programs I’ve been able to create with coding bring so much joy to my family and friends. They might not be super advanced or groundbreaking, but they make people smile. I’ve made fortune tellers with personalized outcomes, outfit idea generators, and biographical websites for my sisters. My drawing skills might be abysmal, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be creative through other mediums. I’m sure my mom would love a hand-made painting to hang on the refrigerator, but I guess she’ll have to settle for playing tic-tac-toe with me in C++.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my own personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. However, I have a lot to learn. It’s absolutely crucial that I am thoroughly educated on the technologies used in AI. It is only when I understand these technologies that I can improve them. I will need to learn the ins and outs of how AI algorithms are designed, and how to integrate the needs of disabled people into them. None of this will be possible without first getting an education, but I’m not only in it for the degree. Talking with my professors at college and learning from those above me will give me invaluable insight and help me consider angles I might not have thought of. College also provides opportunities to participate in undergraduate research, and this really excites me. Performing research on artificial intelligence in college would help me gain knowledge and experience that I can take with me as my career advances. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will take this with me as I further my education. Most importantly, I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my own personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. However, I have a lot to learn. It’s absolutely crucial that I am thoroughly educated on the technologies used in AI. It is only when I understand these technologies that I can improve them. I will need to learn the ins and outs of how AI algorithms are designed, and how to integrate the needs of disabled people into them. None of this will be possible without first getting an education, but I’m not only in it for the degree. Talking with my professors at college and learning from those above me will give me invaluable insight and help me consider angles I might not have thought of. College also provides opportunities to participate in undergraduate research, and this really excites me. Performing research on artificial intelligence in college would help me gain knowledge and experience that I can take with me as my career advances. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will take this with me as I further my education. Most importantly, I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

Community service means everything to me. Over the past four years, I’ve spent over 200 hours volunteering at Balance Inc., an organization that provides services to kids with special needs. Every day in the summer we take kids on field trips all over our town. I know without a doubt that volunteering has made me a more carefree, vibrant person. Every day of volunteering, I am paired up with a different child, each one with their own unique challenges. Learning how I can best help each of my buddies and make sure they have a good time is incredibly rewarding. There is nothing more gratifying than finding a technique that helps a child calm down when they’re overwhelmed, or teaching a child a new skill and watching them grow. It definitely isn’t always easy and fun. Working with kids is hard, and navigating developmental disabilities on top of it can make for some really hard days. However, it’s usually the worst days that provide the best lessons, both for me and the kids. Sometimes it takes a fall into the pool to realize the water really isn’t that cold…I won’t specify whether that was learned by a kid or myself. Everyone should experience the fulfillment of positively influencing someone’s life. Hearing the kids say, “Best summer ever!” at the end of the summer makes all the difficult days worthwhile. Community service has been the single most transformative experience of my life, and I think it is essential that everyone experience the satisfaction and pride of helping others.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my own personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Thus, people with disabilities are often brushed aside when creating AI algorithms. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. However, I have a lot to learn. It’s crucial that I am thoroughly educated on the technologies used in AI. I will need to learn the ins and outs of how AI algorithms are designed, and how to integrate the needs of disabled people into them. None of this will be possible without first getting an education. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will take this with me as I further my education. Most importantly, I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’m not sure if artistic ability is something that can be inherited. If it is, I don’t know which of my parents is to blame for my complete lack of talent in that regard. Growing up, I struggled to accomplish even the simplest of creative tasks. I remember a specific school project during which my group mates and I could not control our laughter at the state of my bubble letters. I’ve always had a deep appreciation of beauty and a love for interesting and unusual things - in short, all the qualities of an artistic person. The only thing missing was any sort of ability to express that. By middle school, I had become fascinated with all forms of digital creation. I spent a lot of time using online website makers to make websites for just about anything I could think of. I loved the way I could be creative and express myself without needing artistic talent. I eventually began using online tools to teach myself how to code so I could build my own websites. Since then, I have learned coding languages including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The programs I’ve been able to create with coding bring so much joy to my family and friends. They might not be super advanced or groundbreaking, but they make people smile. I’ve made fortune tellers with personalized outcomes, outfit idea generators, and biographical websites for my sisters. My drawing skills might be abysmal, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be creative through other mediums. I’m sure my mom would love a hand-made painting to hang on the refrigerator, but I guess she’ll have to settle for playing tic-tac-toe with me in C++.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’ve worked with kids with special needs since I was twelve, and they’ve all changed me in their own ways. Jake reminds me to always tell the people I love that I love them, especially in the form of suffocating hugs. Eleanor teaches me that no matter how many times I am (literally) knocked down, it’s never too late to get back on my rollerblades. But I want more for them than to be catalysts for my personal growth; they deserve growth of their own. Artificial intelligence is fascinating; I often get lost in daydreams about its potential to revolutionize the world. However, AI relies on patterns and formulas. Disabilities are incredibly diverse -- they can’t be reduced to statistics and predictable outcomes. Because the nature of AI is to disregard data that doesn’t correlate to the “norm”, people with disabilities are often brushed to the side when creating AI algorithms. For example, if a self-driving car is not trained to recognize a wheelchair user as a pedestrian, it puts this person in serious danger. The ethics of AI have not yet been heavily researched. I want to set the precedent. I want to advocate for the representation of people with disabilities in AI. Becoming a researcher of AI ethics would quench my thirst for discovery and allow me to never stop learning. Most importantly, I’d be able to do this knowing that I’m leaving a positive mark on technology and society. I refuse to let the people I advocate for down. AI is the future, and I want a future that includes Jake, and Eleanor, and the rest of the amazing kids I work with. They deserve to have someone out there fighting for them. I will make sure that as AI takes off, no one is left behind.

I’m not sure if artistic ability is something that can be inherited. If it is, I don’t know which of my parents is to blame for my complete lack of talent in that regard. Growing up, I struggled to accomplish even the simplest of creative tasks. I remember a specific school project during which my group mates and I could not control our laughter at the state of my bubble letters. I’ve always had a deep appreciation of beauty and a love for interesting and unusual things - in short, all the qualities of an artistic person. The only thing missing was any sort of ability to express that. By middle school, I had become fascinated with all forms of digital creation. I spent a lot of time using online website makers to make websites for just about anything I could think of. I loved the way I could be creative and express myself without needing artistic talent. I eventually began using online tools to teach myself how to code so I could build my own websites. Since then, I have learned coding languages including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The programs I’ve been able to create with coding bring so much joy to my family and friends. They might not be extremely advanced or groundbreaking, but they make people smile. I’ve made fortune tellers with personalized outcomes, outfit idea generators, and biographical websites for my sisters. My drawing skills might be abysmal, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be creative through other mediums. I’m sure my mom would love a hand-made painting to hang on the refrigerator, but I guess she’ll have to settle for playing tic-tac-toe with me in C++.

Taking in the pristine views of the Rocky Mountains can be stressful. If I look to my right, I am missing out on a shining waterfall tumbling over a stack of boulders. If I look to my left, a flock of crowing birds passes me by. The plethora of beautiful views, every direction a new opportunity to witness something magical, leaves me breathless trying to see it all at once. Every summer, my family’s trip to visit my grandmother in Vail, Colorado leaves me energized and inspired. The opportunity is endless there; the boundless trails, the secret pockets of beauty, and the hidden spots are all adventures waiting to happen. I love nature because it’s brimming with opportunity. There are thousands of trails I haven’t yet hiked, endless lakes just waiting to be jumped into. I often wish I could exist forever in these moments of bliss and discovery, engulfed in the magic of nature. I freeze these moments the only way I know how: photography. Photographing nature lets me continue to discover new beauty well after I’ve gone home for the day. Editing the photos I’ve taken, I admire the bumblebee on a flower that I hadn’t noticed before. I realize how many shades of pink are in the sunset after I adjust the saturation. There is so much to be discovered, even in a single photo. When life becomes mundane, I turn to nature to rejuvenate my sense of adventure. I am a firm believer that the best times in my life are yet to come. The endlessness of nature is a comforting reminder of that. I’m so grateful for all the times I’ve gotten to enjoy nature and the photos that commemorate them.