My interest in computer science began with a fascination for how technology could solve real-world problems. That curiosity deepened when I joined Girls Who Code in high school, where I learned foundational programming skills and saw how code could be used to build tools for change. I also participated in a Women in Engineering scholarship program, which introduced me to the broader world of STEM and gave me the confidence to pursue computer science as a career. These experiences didn’t just teach me technical skills, they showed me that I belonged in this field and helped me envision a future where I could use technology to make a meaningful impact. One of the projects I’ve been most passionate about is my current work as an IT intern. While it may not sound groundbreaking, this experience has allowed me to explore real-world applications of technology and contribute to improving internal systems. I’ve worked on streamlining data processes, troubleshooting network issues, and helping implement more efficient digital tools for the team. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how even small changes in tech infrastructure can make a big difference in how people work and collaborate. This project has strengthened my technical foundation and helped me realize how much I enjoy solving problems through code and systems thinking. As I’ve continued my studies, I’ve become especially passionate about the intersection of artificial intelligence and sustainability. I’m interested in how we can make AI more environmentally responsible, reducing the energy consumption of large models while still pushing the boundaries of innovation. My goal is to lead research and development in sustainable AI, building systems that are both powerful and planet conscious. I want to be a visible advocate in this movement, giving talks, sharing my work, and showing young girls what it looks like to make a difference in tech. Representation matters, and I hope to inspire others by being a face in the future of ethical innovation. Working in technology inspires me because it’s a space where creativity meets impact. It’s not just about writing code; it’s about building solutions that improve lives, protect the planet, and empower communities. Technology gives me the tools to turn ideas into action, and that sense of possibility is what drives me every day. Outside of academics, I’ve also found meaning in community involvement. I ran cross country and track in high school—not because I was the best, but because it felt like family. That experience taught me perseverance and teamwork. I’ve also volunteered with kids, reading to them, helping run track camps, and supporting school fundraisers. These moments remind me why I want to use technology to uplift others and create inclusive spaces where everyone feels they belong. Receiving the Chadwick D. McNab Memorial Scholarship would help me continue pursuing this path with purpose. It would ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to focus more deeply on research and building projects that matter. With your support, I’ll be one step closer to a career that blends innovation, responsibility, and community—just like Chadwick McNab did throughout his life

My interest in computer science began with a fascination for how technology could solve real-world problems. That curiosity deepened when I joined Girls Who Code in high school, where I learned foundational programming skills and saw how code could be used to build tools for change. I also participated in a Women in Engineering scholarship program, which introduced me to the broader world of STEM and gave me the confidence to pursue computer science as a career. These experiences didn’t just teach me technical skills; they showed me that I belonged in this field and helped me envision a future where I could use technology to make a meaningful impact. Throughout high school, I ran cross country and track. I was never the fastest runner, but I stuck with it because it felt like family. The early mornings, shared struggles, and small victories taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of showing up, not just for myself, but for others. That sense of community shaped how I approach challenges today, both in and out of the classroom. Outside of academics and athletics, I’ve always found joy in giving back. I volunteered regularly with kids, reading to them, helping run track camps, and supporting school fundraisers. These experiences reminded me how powerful encouragement and mentorship can be, especially for young people who are just beginning to explore their interests. I want to carry that spirit forward in my career, using technology not only to solve problems but to uplift others. As I’ve continued my studies, I’ve become passionate about the intersection of artificial intelligence and sustainability. I’m especially interested in how we can make AI more environmentally responsible, reducing the energy consumption of large models while still pushing the boundaries of innovation. My goal is to lead research and development in sustainable AI, building systems that are both powerful and planet conscious. I want to be a visible advocate in this movement, giving talks, sharing my work, and showing young girls what it looks like to make a difference in tech. Representation matters, and I hope to inspire others by being a face in the future of ethical innovation. Receiving the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would significantly impact my future. It would ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more deeply on research and coursework. As someone financing my studies independently, every bit of support helps me stay on track toward my goals. But beyond financial need, I bring a clear vision: to use computer science not just as a career path, but as a platform for impact. Kalia’s legacy of excellence, kindness, and ambition resonates deeply with me. Like her, I strive to do my best in every area of life: academics, service, and personal growth. With your support, I’ll be one step closer to building a career that blends innovation and responsibility, while honoring the values Kalia lived by every day.

My interest in computer science began with a fascination for how technology could solve real-world problems. That curiosity deepened when I joined Girls Who Code in high school, where I learned foundational programming skills and saw how code could be used to build tools for change. I also participated in a Women in Engineering scholarship program, which introduced me to the broader world of STEM and gave me the confidence to pursue computer science as a career. These experiences didn’t just teach me technical skills; they showed me that I belonged in this field and showed me a future where I could use technology to make an impact. As I’ve continued my studies, I’ve become passionate about the intersection of artificial intelligence and sustainability. Specifically, in how we can make AI more environmentally responsible, reducing the energy consumption of large models while still pushing the boundaries of innovation. My goal is to lead research and development in sustainable AI, building systems that are powerful and planet conscious. I want to be a visible advocate in this movement, giving talks, sharing my work, and showing young girls what it looks like to make a difference in tech. I hope to inspire others by being a face in the future of ethical innovation. Currently, I’m gaining hands-on experience as an IT intern, strengthening my technical foundation and exploring different areas within computer science. While I’m still refining my specialization, I know that my future lies in using technology to drive ethical and sustainable progress. I believe that AI can be a force for good—but only if we build it with intention and care. Receiving the Dr. William and Jo Sherwood Family Scholarship would significantly impact my future. It would ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more deeply on research, coursework, and outreach. As someone financing my studies independently, every bit of support helps me stay on track toward my goals. But beyond financial need, I bring a clear vision: to use computer science not just as a career path, but as a platform for impact. This scholarship would help me take the next step toward becoming a leader in sustainable AI and empower me to inspire others who are curious about STEM. I want to show them that their ideas and voices matter, and that they can shape the future of technology. With your support, I’ll be one step closer to building a career that blends innovation, responsibility, and purpose. In addition to academic and career goals, this scholarship would also give me the freedom to invest more time in personal growth and community engagement. I hope to attend conferences and connect with mentors that align with my values. These opportunities would enhance my education and allow me to give back to the tech community in meaningful ways. Your support would help me build a future where I can change the world to be a better place.

My interest in computer science began with a fascination for how technology could solve real-world problems. That curiosity deepened when I joined Girls Who Code in high school, where I learned foundational programming skills and saw how code could be used to build tools for change. I also participated in a Women in Engineering scholarship program, which introduced me to the broader world of STEM and gave me the confidence to pursue computer science as a career. These experiences didn’t just teach me technical skills; they showed me that I belonged in this field. As I’ve continued my studies, I’ve become passionate about the intersection of artificial intelligence and sustainability. I’m especially interested in how we can make AI more environmentally responsible, reducing the energy consumption of large models while still pushing the boundaries of innovation. My dream job is to lead research and development in sustainable AI, building systems that are both powerful and planet conscious. I want to be a visible advocate in this movement, giving talks, sharing my work, and showing young girls what it looks like to make a difference in tech. Currently, I’m gaining hands-on experience as an IT intern, strengthening my technical foundation and exploring different areas within computer science. While I’m still refining my specialization, I know that my future lies in using technology to drive ethical and sustainable progress. I believe that AI can be a force for good, but only if we build it with intention and care. I feel I’m the best candidate for this scholarship because I bring both passion and purpose to my work. Like Chris Jackson, I understand the value of education and the challenges of pursuing it. I’m financing my studies independently, and this scholarship would significantly ease that burden, allowing me to focus more deeply on research and outreach. But beyond financial need, I bring a clear vision: to use computer science not just as a career path, but as a platform for impact. I want to be a face in the future of tech: someone who leads with integrity, inspires others, and builds systems that serve both people and the planet. This scholarship would help me take the next step toward that goal, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply.

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the power of technology to solve real-world problems. That curiosity led me to pursue computer science, where I’ve discovered a passion for developing sustainable solutions through artificial intelligence. As I’ve deepened my understanding of AI, I’ve become increasingly aware of its environmental impact, particularly the energy demands of large-scale models. This realization has shaped my goal: to be a leader in the movement for environmentally responsible AI. I envision a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. My mission is to help build AI systems that are not only powerful but also energy efficient and ethically designed. I want to be a face in this movement, not just behind the scenes coding, but actively engaging with the public. I plan to give talks, share my research, and show young girls what it looks like to make a difference in STEM. Representation matters, and I want them to see someone who looks like them driving change in tech. My journey into STEM was shaped by early exposure to programs that empowered young women in science and technology. In high school, I participated in a Women in Engineering scholarship program that introduced me to the possibilities of engineering and computer science. I also joined Girls Who Code, where I learned foundational programming skills and connected with a community of girls who shared my passion. These experiences were pivotal when I chose my major; they gave me confidence, mentorship, and a sense of belonging in a field where women are still underrepresented. Currently, I’m gaining hands-on experience as an IT intern, strengthening my technical skills and exploring different areas within computer science. While I’m still refining my specialization, I’m drawn to the intersection of AI and sustainability. I believe this is where I can make the greatest impact, not only by advancing technology but by ensuring it serves the planet responsibly. As a woman in a male dominated field, I’m committed to breaking barriers and uplifting others. I want to mentor girls who are curious about STEM but unsure if they belong just as I was once. Through visibility and outreach, I’ll show them that their ideas and voices matter. My goal is to create a ripple effect by empowering others while driving innovation that benefits everyone. Receiving the Women in STEM Scholarship would allow me to continue my education without financial strain and focus more deeply on research and learning. It would support not just my academic journey, but my mission to lead, inspire, and contribute meaningfully to the future of STEM.

Names are so unique to each person and each thing that they represent. To create this Connections puzzle I took 16 names: Mercury, Achilles, Apollo, Nike; Bengal, Siamese, Sphinx, Persian; Fibonacci, Pythagoras, Pascal, Euclid; and Andes, Atlas, Himalayas, and Rockies. All of these words are names involved in topics that have interested me throughout my life. The first group, Mercury, Achilles, Apollo, and Nike, represents mythological figures from Roman and Greek mythology. They showcase cultural stories and legends that have shaped literature and society for centuries. For me, they are a reminder of the Percy Jackson stories I read as a kid and all of the related books by Rick Riordan. The second group, Bengal, Siamese, Sphinx, and Persian, relates to cat breeds. I chose to group these words together because some of them could be related to mythology. Growing up I have always had cats; however, I have never known their breeds, as they always join our family after being strays we found in our yard. The third group, Fibonacci, Pythagoras, Pascal, and Euclid, honors historical mathematicians. I have enjoyed and been fascinated with math my entire life, which led me to pursue a computer science degree. Although I have shed many tears when trying to learn these mathematician's contributions to math, more of me has found it satisfying when everything finally clicks in my mind. The final group, Andes Atlas, Himalayas, and Rockies, refers to famous mountain ranges across the world. Coming up with this category was more random than the others, as I created it based on the trip I took last week when driving through the Rockies (driving through the mountains can be scary).

Navigating anxiety has at times, been a difficult presence in my life, leaving me dreading social interactions and second-guessing my capabilities. However, it has also driven me to grow, adapt, and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible. In high school, I made the conscious decision to confront my anxiety by immersing myself in various activities and leadership roles. Joining and running several clubs, including National Honor Society, Key Club, and serving as a class officer, allowed me to step outside my comfort zone. These roles helped me develop organizational skills and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Yet, my most transformative experience came through my time with the Miss Bridgman Scholarship Organization. Participating in this program taught me invaluable public speaking and interview skills, which I was later able to utilize in DECA and helped me advance to the international competitions. More importantly, it surrounded me with a community of like-minded friends who shared my passion for giving back to our small town. Feeling their support, I realized that my anxiety did not need to be a huge factor in my life and was simple one tiny aspect of who I am. These experiences of competing through the Miss Bridgman Scholarship Organization Program, and after getting to attend events, as a part of the court, such as food drives, reading to elementary schools, and meeting other royalty in the area, I gained confidence in my ability to connect with others and contribute meaningfully to my community. The journey hasn't always been easy, but it has taught me resilience and the importance of seeking out opportunities that push me to grow. The transition to college brought a new set of challenges. Starting my first semester in an unfamiliar environment where I didn't know anyone certainly made my anxiety worse. Social interactions felt overwhelming, and I struggled to meet people (living in a small town my whole life, I never did anything without having at least one person I knew). However, I realized I was never going to grow, and I could not let fear hold me back. Over time, I began building connections, starting with my roommates, and then expanding to the other girls on my dorm floor. To continue branching out, I spontaneously decided to join the ballroom dance team. This experience of practicing and competing not only introduced me to a new skill but also helped me form meaningful friendships with my teammates. This summer, I will spend seven weeks in Iceland, an experience that excites me but also brings its own challenges. Traveling to a foreign country where I don't know anyone is scary, and I am naturally worried about meeting people. However, I see this opportunity as another step in my life to overcome anxiety. I plan to approach this adventure with an open mind and believe this trip will not only help me grow in the present but also prepare me for future challenges, reinforcing my confidence in navigating unfamiliar situations. My educational goals are deeply rooted in my desire to continue this growth. I am currently majoring in computer science and aspire to pursue a career where I can do public speaking and presentations for tech companies. This career path excites me not only because of the technical skills I will develop, but also because it will challenge me to step even further outside of my comfort zone. By combing my passion for technology with my dedication to personal growth, I aim to inspire others and contribute to the advancement of technology. As I look to the future, maintaining my mental health remains important to me. I plan to continue engaging in activities that challenge and inspire me, as these have proven to be the most effective ways to overcome my fears. My journey has shown me that growth often comes from discomfort and that the most rewarding experiences are those that require perseverance.

Navigating anxiety has at times, been a difficult presence in my life, leaving me dreading social interactions and second-guessing my capabilities. However, it has also driven me to grow, adapt, and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible. In high school, I made the conscious decision to confront my anxiety by immersing myself in various activities and leadership roles. Joining and running several clubs, including National Honor Society, Key Club, and serving as a class officer, allowed me to step outside my comfort zone. These roles helped me develop organizational skills and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Yet, my most transformative experience came through my time with the Miss Bridgman Scholarship Organization. Participating in this program taught me invaluable public speaking and interview skills, which I was later able to utilize in DECA and helped me advance to the international competitions. More importantly, it surrounded me with a community of like-minded friends who shared my passion for giving back to our small town. Feeling their support, I realized that my anxiety did not need to be a huge factor in my life and was simple one tiny aspect of who I am. The transition to college brought a new set of challenges. Starting my first semester in an unfamiliar environment where I didn't know anyone certainly made my anxiety worse. Social interactions felt overwhelming, and I struggled to meet people (living in a small town my whole life, I never did anything without having at least one person I knew). However, I realized I was never going to grow, and I could not let fear hold me back. Over time, I began building connections, starting with my roommates, and then expanding to the other girls on my dorm floor. To continue branching out, I spontaneously decided to join the ballroom dance team. This experience of practicing and competing not only introduced me to a new skill but also helped me form meaningful friendships with my teammates. This summer, I will spend seven weeks in Iceland, an experience that excites me but also brings its own challenges. Traveling to a foreign country where I don't know anyone is scary, and I am naturally worried about meeting people. However, I see this opportunity as another step in my life to overcome anxiety. I plan to approach this adventure with an open mind and believe this trip will not only help me grow in the present but also prepare me for future challenges, reinforcing my confidence in navigating unfamiliar situations. My educational goals are deeply rooted in my desire to continue this growth. I am currently majoring in computer science and aspire to pursue a career where I can do public speaking and presentations for tech companies. This career path excites me not only because of the technical skills I will develop, but also because it will challenge me to step even further outside of my comfort zone. By combing my passion for technology with my dedication to personal growth, I aim to inspire others and contribute to the advancement of technology. As I look to the future, maintaining my mental health remains important to me. I plan to continue engaging in activities that challenge and inspire me, as these have proven to be the most effective ways to overcome my fears. My journey has shown me that growth often comes from discomfort and that the most rewarding experiences are those that require perseverance.

Navigating anxiety has at times, been a difficult presence in my life, leaving me dreading social interactions and second-guessing my capabilities. However, it has also driven me to grow, adapt, and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible. In high school, I made the conscious decision to confront my anxiety by immersing myself in various activities and leadership roles. Joining and running several clubs, including National Honor Society, Key Club, and serving as a class officer, allowed me to step outside my comfort zone. These roles helped me develop organizational skills and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Yet, my most transformative experience came through my time with the Miss Bridgman Scholarship Organization. Participating in this program taught me invaluable public speaking and interview skills, which I was later able to utilize in DECA and helped me advance to the international competitions. More importantly, it surrounded me with a community of like-minded friends who shared my passion for giving back to our small town. Feeling their support, I realized that my anxiety did not need to be a huge factor in my life and was simple one tiny aspect of who I am. These experiences of competing through the Miss Bridgman Scholarship Organization Program, and after getting to attend events, as a part of the court, such as food drives, reading to elementary schools, and meeting other royalty in the area, I gained confidence in my ability to connect with others and contribute meaningfully to my community. The journey hasn't always been easy, but it has taught me resilience and the importance of seeking out opportunities that push me to grow. The transition to college brought a new set of challenges. Starting my first semester in an unfamiliar environment where I didn't know anyone certainly made my anxiety worse. Social interactions felt overwhelming, and I struggled to meet people (living in a small town my whole life, I never did anything without having at least one person I knew). However, I realized I was never going to grow, and I could not let fear hold me back. Over time, I began building connections, starting with my roommates, and then expanding to the other girls on my dorm floor. To continue branching out, I spontaneously decided to join the ballroom dance team. This experience of practicing and competing not only introduced me to a new skill but also helped me form meaningful friendships with my teammates. This summer, I will spend seven weeks in Iceland, an experience that excites me but also brings its own challenges. Traveling to a foreign country where I don't know anyone is scary, and I am naturally worried about meeting people. However, I see this opportunity as another step in my life to overcome anxiety. I plan to approach this adventure with an open mind and believe this trip will not only help me grow in the present but also prepare me for future challenges, reinforcing my confidence in navigating unfamiliar situations. My educational goals are deeply rooted in my desire to continue this growth. I am currently majoring in computer science and aspire to pursue a career where I can do public speaking and presentations for tech companies. This career path excites me not only because of the technical skills I will develop, but also because it will challenge me to step even further outside of my comfort zone. By combing my passion for technology with my dedication to personal growth, I aim to inspire others and contribute to the advancement of technology. As I look to the future, maintaining my mental health remains important to me. I plan to continue engaging in activities that challenge and inspire me, as these have proven to be the most effective ways to overcome my fears. My journey has shown me that growth often comes from discomfort and that the most rewarding experiences are those that require perseverance.

The universe is made up of color. Chartreuse to cerulean to cinnabar. Most people look around the world in awe of its beauty; some strive to dive deeper into how this beauty is made. What makes the stars appear so heavenly? Why do sunrises give people hope? Astronomy, psychology, and geology can all be broken down to their core of mathematics. Every shift of the stars, every chemical released in the brain, and every rock turned into a fossil is governed by the laws of mathematics. Of course, there are the obvious ways my life has been impacted by math. I have vivid memories of doing my math homework at the dining room table, tears running down my face, as my dad tried to teach me fractions until it finally clicked in my mind. Through perseverance, later, I would sit at the same table, roles reversed, showing my dad what I learned about differential equations. Then, there's the math that has impacted me outside of my academic life. Like everyone else, I was impacted by Covid statistics that determined who was allowed to work and who was likely to get sick. Math was also vital in running my small business. I learned math to find suppliers, set prices, and understand taxes. Even the code making up my website and the encryption used to safely take customers' credit card information rely entirely on mathematics. My appreciation for how math impacts our daily lives has led me to a career in computer science. Maybe one day I will harness my love of math to develop new Artificial Intelligence systems or improve quantum computing to replace traditional computers. Through all the hobbies I picked up as a child and all the careers I have researched and considered, the one constant was their reliance on mathematics. For me, the beauty of math is the beauty of the world. When I look in awe at the colors of the universe, I see the beauty of the math that governs it and my childhood memories of math. Only those who embrace the reality that the world is painted by mathematics can truly understand how beautiful the universe is. I will never give up my desire to learn more about this universe and plan to do so through computer science. Even quantum particles I will study, that don’t appear to follow known mathematical rules, follow some unknown mathematical patterns, just waiting to be discovered in the future.

What if Ant-Man’s quantum realm was real? What if we could move through time like the Flash? These superheroes use physics that we don’t consider possible, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely without reason. While these superhero movies are not likely to become a reality anytime soon, my academic and career goals involve studying these theoretical concepts and making significant technological advances. Over the last few years, I have taken classes and participated in scholarship programs that introduced me to coding. My love for programming and learning about the world through physics has led me to major in computer science at the University of Michigan. After college, I plan to work with and program quantum computers. Currently, quantum computers are millions of dollars, and average people don't need their speed. However, I plan to use my education to make these computers more affordable and worth using in everyday life. Superheroes don’t need to be super-fast or have worlds with their own set of physics; superheroes are instead ordinary people, integral to our society. Everyone has the potential to be one of these people by simply stepping up in their communities and helping others. This is why I love volunteering; it is an amazing way to make a large impact on many people. Over the years I have been able to give back to my community through various forms of community service. From providing childcare in my school district to cleaning up the beaches and parks to collecting donations for my high school’s feminine hygiene cart, I always feel good about helping others. Out of everything I've done, my work for the Mobile Food Pantry at Woodland Shores in the last few years has been the most rewarding. In my sophomore year of high school, I attended the Thanksgiving Mobile Food Pantry, which was way more crowded than previous months I had gone. This was one of the coldest times I had volunteered, which made it even more heartwarming to see the number of other volunteers who had come out to help. Being able to provide turkeys and other Thanksgiving foods to so many in need, truly made me feel like a superhero and showed me how just taking a few hours of my time could change lives. My volunteer work will not cease after I graduate. By using my STEM degree to work with quantum computers, I will be able give back to my community by creating easier and cheaper access to technology. One day down the road, I also hope to return to my hometown to settle down with a family of my own, volunteering at some of the same places I do now. Volunteer work has changed my life and combined with STEM will give me a way be a superhero in the community that raised me.

What if Ant-Man’s quantum realm was real? What if we could move through time like the Flash? These superheroes use physics that we don’t consider possible, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely without reason. While these superhero movies are not likely to become a reality anytime soon, my academic and career goals involve studying these theoretical concepts and making significant technological advances. Over the last few years, I have taken classes and participated in scholarship programs that introduced me to coding. My love for programming and learning about the world through physics has led me to major in computer science at the University of Michigan. After college, I plan to work with and program quantum computers. Currently, quantum computers are millions of dollars, and average people don't need their speed. However, I plan to use my education to make these computers more affordable and worth using in everyday life. Superheroes don’t need to be super-fast or have worlds with their own set of physics; superheroes are instead ordinary people, integral to our society. Everyone has the potential to be one of these people by simply stepping up in their communities and helping others. This is why I love volunteering; it is an amazing way to make a large impact on many people. Over the years I have been able to give back to my community through various forms of community service. From providing childcare in my school district to cleaning up the beaches and parks to collecting donations for my high school’s feminine hygiene cart, I always feel good about helping others. Out of everything I've done, my work for the Mobile Food Pantry at Woodland Shores in the last few years has been the most rewarding. In my sophomore year of high school, I attended the Thanksgiving Mobile Food Pantry, which was way more crowded than previous months I had gone. This was one of the coldest times I had volunteered, which made it even more heartwarming to see the number of other volunteers who had come out to help. Being able to provide turkeys and other Thanksgiving foods to so many in need, truly made me feel like a superhero and showed me how just taking a few hours of my time could change lives. My volunteer work will not cease after I graduate. By using my STEM degree to work with quantum computers, I will be able to give back to my community by creating easier and cheaper access to technology. One day down the road, I also hope to return to my hometown to settle down with a family of my own, volunteering at some of the same places I do now. Volunteer work has changed my life and combined with STEM will give me a way to be a superhero in the community that raised me.

What if Ant-Man’s quantum realm was real? What if we could move through time like the Flash? These superheroes use physics that we don’t consider possible, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely without reason. While these superhero movies are not likely to become a reality anytime soon, my academic and career goals involve studying these theoretical concepts and making significant technological advances. Over the last few years, I have taken classes and participated in scholarship programs that introduced me to coding. My love for programming and learning about the world through physics has led me to major in computer science at the University of Michigan. After college, I plan to work with and program quantum computers. Currently, quantum computers are millions of dollars, and average people don't need their speed. However, I plan to use my education to make these computers more affordable and worth using in everyday life. Superheroes don’t need to be super-fast or have worlds with their own set of physics; superheroes are instead ordinary people, integral to our society. Everyone has the potential to be one of these people by simply stepping up in their communities and helping others. This is why I love volunteering; it is an amazing way to make a large impact on many people. Over the years I have been able to give back to my community through various forms of community service. From providing childcare in my school district to cleaning up the beaches and parks to collecting donations for my high school’s feminine hygiene cart, I always feel good about helping others. Out of everything I've done, my work for the Mobile Food Pantry at Woodland Shores in the last few years has been the most rewarding. In my sophomore year of high school, I attended the Thanksgiving Mobile Food Pantry, which was way more crowded than previous months I had gone. This was one of the coldest times I had volunteered, which made it even more heartwarming to see the number of other volunteers who had come out to help. Being able to provide turkeys and other Thanksgiving foods to so many in need, truly made me feel like a superhero and showed me how just taking a few hours of my time could change lives. My volunteer work will not cease after I graduate. By using my STEM degree to work with quantum computers, I will be able to give back to my community by creating easier and cheaper access to technology. One day down the road, I also hope to return to my hometown to settle down with a family of my own, volunteering at some of the same places I do now. Volunteer work has changed my life and combined with STEM will give me a way to be a superhero in the community that raised me.

What if Ant-Man’s quantum realm was real? What if we could move through time like the Flash? These superheroes use physics that we don’t consider possible, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely without reason. While these superhero movies are not likely to become a reality anytime soon, my academic and career goals involve studying these theoretical concepts and making significant technological advances. Over the last few years, I have taken classes outside of school and participated in scholarship programs (virtually and at Michigan Technological University) that introduced me to coding. My love for programming and learning about the world through physics has led me to major in computer science at the University of Michigan. After college, I plan to work with and program quantum computers. Currently, quantum computers are millions of dollars, and average people don't need their speed. However, I plan to use my education to make these computers more affordable and worth using in everyday life. Superheroes don’t need to be super-fast or have worlds with their own set of physics; superheroes are instead ordinary people, integral to our society. Everyone has the potential to be one of these people by simply stepping up in their communities and helping others. This is why I love volunteering; it is an amazing way to make a large impact on many people. Over the years I have been able to give back to my community through various forms of community service. From providing childcare in my school district to cleaning up the beaches and parks to collecting donations for my high school’s feminine hygiene cart, I always feel good about helping others. Out of everything I've done, my work for the Mobile Food Pantry at Woodland Shores has been the most rewarding. In my sophomore year of high school, I attended the Thanksgiving pantry, which was way more crowded than previous months I had gone. This was one of the coldest times I had volunteered, which made it even more heartwarming to see the number of other volunteers who had come out to help. Being able to provide turkeys and other Thanksgiving foods to so many in need, truly made me feel like a superhero and showed me how just taking a few hours of my time could change lives. My goal is to be able to make this type of impact through the rest of my life and to be able to incorporate my career to do so. My volunteer work will not cease after I graduate. By using my STEM degree to work with quantum computers, I will be able give back to my community by creating easier and cheaper access to technology. One day down the road, I also hope to return to my hometown to settle down with a family of my own, volunteering at some of the same places I do now. Volunteer work has changed my life and combined with STEM will give me a way be a superhero in the community that raised me.

The universe is made up of color. Chartreuse to cerulean to cinnabar. Most people look around the world in awe of its beauty; some strive to dive deeper into how this beauty is made. What makes the stars appear so heavenly? Why do sunrises give people hope? Astronomy, psychology, and geology can all be broken down to their core of mathematics. Every shift of the stars, every chemical released in the brain, and every rock turned into a fossil is governed by the laws of mathematics. Of course, there are the obvious ways my life has been impacted by math. I have vivid memories of doing my math homework at the dining room table, tears running down my face, as my dad tried to teach me fractions. Later, I would sit at the same table, roles reversed, showing my dad what I learned about differential equations. Then, there's the math that has impacted me outside of my academic life. Like everyone else, I was impacted by Covid statistics that determined who was allowed to work and who was likely to get sick. Math is also vital in running my small business. It has required math to find suppliers, set prices, and understand taxes. Even the code making up my website and the encryption used to safely take customers' credit card information rely entirely on mathematics. My appreciation for how math impacts our daily lives has led me to a career in computer science. Maybe one day I will harness my love of math to develop new Artificial Intelligence systems or improve quantum computing to replace traditional computers. Through all the hobbies I picked up as a child and all the careers I have researched and considered, the one constant was their reliance on mathematics. For me, the beauty of math is the beauty of the world. When I look in awe at the colors of the universe, I see the beauty of the math that governs it. Only those who embrace the reality that the world is painted by mathematics can truly understand how beautiful the universe is. I will never give up my desire to learn more about the universe. Even quantum particles that don’t appear to follow known mathematical rules follow some unknown patterns, just waiting to be discovered by bright minds in the future. I hope one of these minds will be me.

What if Ant-Man’s quantum realm was real? What if we could move through time like the Flash? These superheroes use physics that we don’t consider possible, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely without reason. While these superhero movies are not likely to become a reality anytime soon, my academic and career goals involve studying these theoretical concepts and making significant technological advances. Over the last few years, I have taken classes outside of school and participated in scholarship programs (virtually and at Michigan Technological University) that introduced me to coding. My love for programming and learning about the world through physics has led me to major in computer science at the University of Michigan. After college, I plan to work with and program quantum computers. Currently, quantum computers are millions of dollars, and average people don't need their speed. However, I plan to use my education to make these computers more affordable and worth using in everyday life. Superheroes don’t need to be super-fast or have worlds with their own set of physics; superheroes are instead ordinary people, integral to our society. Everyone has the potential to be one of these people by simply stepping up in their communities and helping others. This is why I love volunteering; it is an amazing way to make a large impact on many people. Over the years I have been able to give back to my community through various forms of community service. From providing childcare in my school district to cleaning up the beaches and parks to collecting donations for my high school’s feminine hygiene cart, I always feel good about helping others. Out of everything I've done, my work for the Mobile Food Pantry at Woodland Shores in the last few years has been the most rewarding. In my sophomore year of high school, I attended the Thanksgiving Mobile Food Pantry, which was way more crowded than previous months I had gone. This was one of the coldest times I had volunteered, which made it even more heartwarming to see the number of other volunteers who had come out to help. Being able to provide turkeys and other Thanksgiving foods to so many in need, truly made me feel like a superhero and showed me how just taking a few hours of my time could change lives. My goal is to be able to make this type of impact through the rest of my life and to be able to incorporate my career to do so. My volunteer work will not cease after I graduate. By using my STEM degree to work with quantum computers, I will be able give back to my community by creating easier and cheaper access to technology. One day down the road, I also hope to return to my hometown to settle down with a family of my own, volunteering at some of the same places I do now. Volunteer work has changed my life and combined with STEM will give me a way be a superhero in the community that raised me.

The universe is made up of color. Chartreuse to cerulean to cinnabar. Most people look around the world in awe of its beauty; some strive to dive deeper into how this beauty is made. What makes the stars appear so heavenly? Why do sunrises give people hope? There are many ways to learn about our world: astronomy, psychology, geology. Every one of these fields can be broken down to its core of mathematics. Every shift of position of the stars, every chemical released in the brain, and every rock turned into a fossil, is governed by the laws of mathematics. Of course, there are the obvious ways my life has been impacted by math. I have vivid memories of doing my math homework at the dining room table, tears running down my face: my dad trying to teach me how fractions worked. Then getting older, sitting back down at the same table, roles reversed, showing my dad what I learned about differential equations. Then, there's the math that has impacted me outside of my academic life; the math that is hidden in the background of my daily reality. Like everyone else, I was impacted by the statistics of Covid that determined who was allowed to work, who was likely to get sick, and even who would use Photomath on their online schoolwork. Math is also a vital component in running my small business. There are the common ways math is used in small businesses, but many people forget, that the code making up my website and the encryption used to safely take customers' credit card information is entirely reliant upon mathematics. Perhaps it is no surprise that my appreciation of how math impacts our daily lives has led me to STEM-based careers. Maybe one day I will harness my love of math to develop new Artificial Intelligence systems or improve quantum computing so it will one day replace traditional computers. Or maybe I’ll take a broader approach and study Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, finding ways to make possible what people claim is science fiction. Although I don’t have a clear path, my current goal is to major in computer science and earn a PhD in quantum computing. For me, the beauty of math is the beauty of the world: so when I look in awe at the colors of the universe, I see the beauty of the math that governs it. Only those who fully embrace the reality that the world is painted by mathematics can truly understand how beautiful the universe is and how each individual plays an important role in it. I’m never going to give up my desire to learn more about the universe. Even quantum particles and other phenomena that don’t appear to follow the known rules of mathematics, follow some unknown patterns that are just waiting to be discovered by some bright minds in the future. One of these minds will be me.