In pursuing higher education, one of the biggest obstacles I faced was managing my anxiety as the only woman, and more specifically, the only Black woman in many of my Computer Science classes. Computer Science is a predominantly white male-dominated field, and entering these spaces as a minority often felt isolating and intimidating. For someone who already struggled with anxiety, this sense of being different, combined with the pressure to succeed, was overwhelming at times. From the moment I stepped into my first computer science course, I was acutely aware of my difference. The classroom felt unfamiliar and unwelcoming, as I didn’t see anyone who looked like me. It wasn’t just the challenge of keeping up with the complex material that caused me distress; it was the thought of standing out in a negative way. The fear that my contributions would be dismissed or that my presence in the room was an anomaly only fueled my anxiety. The idea of being judged based on my race or gender, rather than my abilities or potential, made it hard for me to focus solely on learning and growing in my field. Fortunately, I wasn’t entirely alone in facing this challenge. One of the most pivotal figures in overcoming my anxiety was a professor I met during my first semester. He recognized the struggles I was facing, not only in the material but in my comfort and confidence in the classroom. He went out of his way to offer me encouragement, taking time to meet with me one-on-one after class to discuss concepts I found difficult, but also to discuss my experiences as a woman of color in the field. His validation of my unique position and his willingness to listen helped me begin to process my feelings of isolation. I came to understand that my experiences, although challenging, were not only valid but also valuable to the field. Beyond my professor, my peers played an instrumental role in my development. Several of the other women in my class, though not Black, became allies and friends. We formed study groups where we could support one another, share experiences, and help each other tackle difficult assignments. These friendships, combined with the mentorship of my professor, allowed me to reframe my perception of being “different.” I learned to view it not as an obstacle, but as an asset — a perspective that enhanced my confidence and my work. Overcoming my anxiety and fears in the face of adversity in my field hasn’t been easy, but it has been empowering. With the support of a few key individuals, I’ve been able to reframe my sense of self in a male-dominated space. I now embrace my identity and use it as a source of strength in my academic and professional journey.

Greetings!  I am Aubrey Terriah Stevens, I am 17 years old and from Tallahassee, Florida. I currently attend James S. Rickards High School as a graduating senior. I currently hold a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 and a cumulative weighted grade point average of 3.5. Throughout my 4 years of high school I have participated in a plethora of extra-curricular activities ranging from sports and school elected office positions to outside organizations such as, the Superior Rated Marching Raider Band Auxiliary “Royal Jewels” color guard, Raider Band Society, Rickards High School Yearbook Staff, James S Rickards High School Student Government Association and Royal Court and IVY- ELITE. In all my activities and organizations, I hold executive titles such as Captain for the Royal Jewels which I have held for the past 3 years, President of the Raider Band Society, JSRHS Junior Princess, JSRHS Miss James S Rickards High School and main representative for IVY- ELITE. In addition to participating in extracurricular activities I have also been awarded with many academic and non-academic awards and accolades such as Royal Jewels Triple Threat Award, Equal Justice Initiative Essay Contest Finalist and the Leon County Best and Brightest Award School Winner for the Journalism and Mulitmedia category. I think my character inspired people in a positive way because I’ve been described as fearless and determined. Ive been told that people see me a challenge to be as good at me at stuff or better. I love a good friendly competition, it pushes ever to their limits to see what they can truly accomplish. My ability to inspire others through fearlessness and being a catalyst for growth and success is admirable. By fearlessly pursuing my own aspirations and embracing challenges, I set an example that encourages others to do the same. My determination to forge a blazing path and achieve every goals serves as a reminder to others of the power of self-belief and resilience. My favorite quote is Muhammed Ali “Float like a butterfly sting like a bee” yes it is a cliche but it has a deep meaning to me. Ive aways bee told I can’t do stuff as a plus sized girl but I’ve never let it stop me, when they tell me I can’t do something I work even harder to do it. I float by letting them think I believe them and that I gave up on it but behind the scenes I’m constantly working to achieve that goal and boom I sting, they see e doing what they told me I cant do and more. I will be attending FAMU where I will major in Computer Science. Since I was a little girl I have always been fascinated by technology and how it works then in middle school I was introduced to STEM and STEAM. After completing and gaining my degree in Computer Science at FAMU, I plan to follow through in a career in the technology industry, specifically in the broadcast sector. My goal is to become an executive broadcast director, overseeing the production of television and multimedia content to a wide audience.I am interested and well rounded the intersection of technology and media, and I believe that having a strong background in Computer Science will give me a unique advantage in this white male dominated field.