user profile avatar

Brianna Lewis

635

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

As a single mother navigating the complexities of parenthood without financial support, my journey has been anything but ordinary. The challenges I face daily are compounded by living with bipolar disorder, an often misunderstood and stigmatized condition, which presents its own set of challenges. Yet, through unwavering commitment and a support system of mentors and peers, I have turned this condition into a testament to my strength, rather than a limitation. I have turned what some may see as a setback into a source of resilience. These challenges fuel my determination to succeed and provide a stable future for my child. Within the technology space, I am currently working as a penetration tester, which is an invaluable internship experience that complements my academic pursuit – a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence at Kennesaw State University. Here, I have found a passion that is both a challenge and a calling. My passion lies at the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, and I am dedicated to becoming a pioneer in this field. My goal is to revolutionize the way we approach cybersecurity by integrating AI into offensive security fields, such as penetration testing and exploit development.

Education

Kennesaw State University

Bachelor's degree program
2021 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Computer Science

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Cybersecurity

    • Dream career goals:

    • Inside Sales Representative

      Veeam Software
      2022 – 2022
    • Security Consultant - Penetration Testing

      Abricto Security
      2023 – Present1 year
    • President/Founder

      Women in CyberSecurity at Kennesaw State University
      2022 – Present2 years

    Public services

    • MUST Ministries
      2023 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Beyond The C.L.O.U.D Scholarship
    As a single mother navigating the complexities of parenthood without financial support, my journey has been anything but ordinary. The challenges I face daily are compounded by living with bipolar disorder, an often misunderstood and stigmatized condition, which presents its own set of challenges. Yet, through unwavering commitment and a support system of mentors and peers, I have turned this condition into a testament to my strength, rather than a limitation. I have turned what some may see as a setback into a source of resilience. These challenges fuel my determination to succeed and provide a stable future for my child. Within the technology space, I am currently working as a penetration tester, which is an invaluable internship experience that complements my academic pursuit – a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence at Kennesaw State University. Here, I have found a passion that is both a challenge and a calling. My passion lies at the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, and I am dedicated to becoming a pioneer in this field. My goal is to revolutionize the way we approach cybersecurity by integrating AI into offensive security fields, such as penetration testing and exploit development. Currently, my aspirations are unfolding through the development of an advanced tool, an LLM “pentesting buddy”. This challenge is more than an academic exercise; I believe it could be a potential game-changer in the cybersecurity practice. It aims to simulate the thought process of an experienced penetration tester, providing guidance, suggesting next steps, and learning from interactions to become more effective over time. It would have the ability to provide real-time, dynamic feedback during the penetration testing process. My ambitions include leveraging this tool to foster a more supportive learning environment for individuals interested in cybersecurity. I envision creating an online platform where this AI assistant can be accessed by students and professionals worldwide. This platform could eventually evolve into a community hub for sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas in the field. This tool has the potential to be an invaluable learning aid for both novices and experts. This endeavor is not solely for my benefit; it is a beacon for others struggling with personal struggles, showing them that their aspirations are not out of reach. As I plan for the future, I am aware of the underrepresentation of women, especially single mothers, in the STEM fields. This motivates me to become a mentor and role model, encouraging and supporting others who may feel that their personal circumstances limit their professional aspirations. By breaking through these barriers myself, I aim to pave the way for others, creating a ripple effect that promotes diversity and inclusion in tech industries. By demonstrating how to turn vulnerabilities into strength, I will contribute to the STEM and business communities not only through technology but also through a narrative of empowerment. This scholarship represents more than just financial assistance to me; it is an investment in a brighter future. It would afford me the freedom to focus on developing my skills, advancing my education, and bring my AI-cybersecurity tools to fruition. it is a lifeline that can help me rise above the barriers brought about by my circumstances. This scholarship also stands as a testament to my capability to rise above personal challenges to achieve academic and professional excellence. Your support would allow me to focus more intently on my education and internship, bringing me closer to my goals.
    Trees for Tuition Scholarship Fund
    As I stand on the precipice of my post-college journey, armed with a deep-rooted passion for software development and an unwavering commitment to social change, my purpose comes into focus. I am driven by the desire to utilize my technical expertise and personal experiences to make a tangible and lasting difference in the world. It is my belief that by harnessing the power of technology and fostering empathetic connections, I can pave the path of empowerment, transforming both my community and the world at large. From the early stages of my education, I have recognized the immense potential of software development to shape our lives and drive societal progress. I have witnessed how technology has revolutionized industries, brought communities closer together, and offered solutions to pressing challenges. It is within this dynamic landscape that I see my future, merging my technical skills with a profound sense of social responsibility. However, my journey toward effecting change extends beyond code and algorithms. It stems from personal experiences and a deep understanding of the transformative power of support and advocacy. This blend of technical expertise and empathetic drive propels me forward in my mission to make a positive impact after college. Currently, I have already taken steps to improve my community's landscape through the establishment of "Women in Cybersecurity," a club at my school. By creating a space for women passionate about cybersecurity to connect, share knowledge, and empower one another, we have cultivated an environment where aspirations flourish, and isolation dissipates. Witnessing the positive impact of this club on the lives of its members fuels my determination to continue creating inclusive spaces and uplifting those around me. Looking to the future, my ambition expands into uncharted territories, where innovation and social advocacy converge. With cybersecurity being an increasingly pressing concern in our interconnected world, I am committed to developing groundbreaking software that reshapes the security landscape. Through my vision of an AI model replicating hackers' behaviors, companies will gain the ability to proactively identify vulnerabilities within their systems, fortifying their defenses and averting potential cyber threats. By empowering organizations to stay one step ahead in the ever-evolving realm of cybersecurity, I hope to contribute to a safer digital world for businesses and individuals alike. Beyond the digital realm, my journey to effect change stems from personal triumphs over adversity. As a survivor of domestic abuse and drug addiction, I understand the hardships faced by vulnerable individuals seeking safety and a chance to rebuild their lives. Therefore, one of my ultimate dreams is to establish a shelter specifically designed to support and uplift women who have experienced similar struggles. This shelter will provide not only a physical sanctuary but also comprehensive resources, including counseling, job training, and educational opportunities, empowering survivors to break free from cycles of abuse and addiction. It is my sincere belief that by addressing the root causes of these issues and offering holistic support, we can create a society that values and protects the well-being of its most vulnerable members.
    Curtis Holloway Memorial Scholarship
    My mother has been a constant source of inspiration and support in my life, especially during my college journey. Her unwavering commitment to education and personal growth has always been a driving force in my life. Watching her overcome challenges and strive for success despite the odds has instilled in me a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. But her support goes beyond just words of encouragement. She has been there for me through all my hardships, including when I became a single parent. Becoming a single parent has been one of the biggest challenges I have faced in my life. However, I am grateful to have had my mother's unwavering support and love throughout this journey. Her selflessness and dedication to my son and me have been a source of inspiration and change in my life. My mother has provided us with a stable home, offering us a place to stay and relieving the financial burden of paying for housing. This has allowed me to focus on my studies and provide a better future for my son. Her support has not only been practical, but also emotional, as she has been there for me through all the ups and downs of single parenting. Her love and support have inspired me to be a better person and to create a positive impact in my son's life. I strive to be a role model for him, just as my mother has been for me. I want to show him that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. My mother has always taught me the importance of giving back to those in need and making a positive impact in my community. Her generosity and selflessness have inspired me to follow in her footsteps and use my education and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. One way I have put her teachings into action is by volunteering every Thursday with Must Ministries. By volunteering there, I have the opportunity to directly make a positive impact in the lives of others and provide support to those who are struggling. Through my volunteer work, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that even small acts of kindness can have on someone's life. It has been a fulfilling experience, and it has further motivated me to continue giving back to my community and making a difference in the lives of those around me. I strive to emulate my mother’s resilience and strength, and use my education to create change and break down barriers for future generations. I am incredibly grateful for my mother's love and support, and I am motivated to make her proud. She has been a shining example of what it means to persevere in the face of adversity and to never give up on one's dreams. Her unwavering spirit and unwavering love have inspired me to strive for greatness and to create a better future for my son and for all those around me.
    Jeannine Schroeder Women in Public Service Memorial Scholarship
    As the President and Founder of Women in Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University, I have a deep passion for promoting diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry. I believe that it is crucial for women to be given equal opportunities to succeed in this field, and I am committed to doing my part to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in cybersecurity. My passion for diversity in the field of cybersecurity stems from my desire to create a more inclusive and equitable technology industry. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, I understand the importance of having a diverse and supportive work environment. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue a career in technology, regardless of their background, gender, or mental health status. This is why I have dedicated myself to working with Women in CyberSecurity. I am passionate about empowering women to pursue careers in technology and breaking down the gender barriers that exist in the field. I believe that by promoting diversity in the technology industry, we can create a more innovative and inclusive work environment. I have volunteered at various events and workshops, mentoring women and girls interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. I have also been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, speaking at conferences and working with organizations to promote diversity and inclusiveness. My work with women in cybersecurity is also motivated by the underrepresentation of women in the field. Women make up a small percentage of the cybersecurity workforce and I believe that this disparity is due to a lack of representation, mentorship, and support. By working with women and promoting diversity in the field, I hope to help bridge this gap and create a more inclusive and equitable technology industry. Being a part of Women in Cybersecurity has allowed me to connect with other women in the field, and to work together to achieve our goals. Through our events and initiatives, I have had the opportunity to educate and inspire other women to pursue careers in cybersecurity and to provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed. In addition to my work with Women in Cybersecurity, I volunteer every Thursday for the Must Ministries. Must Ministries is a non-profit organization that serves those in need in the Metro Atlanta area. They provide food, clothing, and other necessities to families who are struggling to make ends meet. As a volunteer, I have had the opportunity to work with Must Ministries on several projects, including the distribution of food to families and the organization of clothing donations. Overall, volunteering at Must Ministries has been a truly enriching experience. It has allowed me to give back to my community, learn about the challenges that many people face, and develop important life skills.
    Financial Literacy Importance Scholarship
    I am writing to express my strong belief in the importance of financial management for students, particularly for those who, like myself, are also single parents. As a student and single mother, managing my finances has become a top priority in my life. Managing finances as a student is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that I am able to cover the cost of tuition and other education-related expenses without incurring debt or falling into financial difficulties. Secondly, it enables me to provide for my child and meet our daily living expenses without worrying about money. Lastly, effective financial management helps me to plan for the future, ensuring that I am able to save for emergencies, plan for my child's education, and build a secure financial foundation for our future. In order to manage my finances well, I have implemented several strategies. Firstly, I maintain a strict budget, tracking my income and expenses to ensure that I am living within my means. I also make a point of saving a portion of my income each month, which I allocate to an emergency fund and towards building a nest egg for my child's future. Saving a portion of my money each month is an important aspect of my financial management strategy. By setting aside a portion of my income, I am able to build a safety net for unexpected expenses, as well as plan for the future. To make this a habit, I have automated my savings. I have set up a direct deposit from my paycheck into a savings account each month, so that a portion of my income goes directly into savings before I have a chance to spend it. This helps me to consistently save and reach my financial goals. I also prioritize saving for emergencies, such as unexpected medical bills or car repairs. By having a solid emergency fund, I am able to handle unexpected expenses without going into debt or using credit cards. Furthermore, I also save for my child's future. Whether it's for their education or other long-term goals, I believe that it is important to plan ahead and ensure that my child has a secure financial foundation. In addition, I make an effort to be financially literate and educate myself on effective money management strategies. This has involved reading books and articles on personal finance, attending financial workshops and seminars, and seeking advice from financial experts. As a single mother, it is important for me to manage my finances effectively, not just for my own benefit, but also for the well-being of my child. I believe that with a solid financial foundation, I will be able to provide a bright and secure future for my family.
    Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship
    Growing up, I was always fascinated by technology and how it works. Little did I know that my journey to understand the digital world would lead me down a path of self-discovery and resilience. My experience with mental health, specifically my diagnosis of bipolar disorder, has greatly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. My struggles with bipolar disorder have taught me the importance of self-awareness and the need for ongoing self-care. I have learned to understand my triggers and how to manage my emotions in a healthy way. This has allowed me to have a more positive outlook on life and appreciate the small things. My beliefs are centered around the importance of mental health and the need to destigmatize mental illness. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support. Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder has had a significant impact on my relationships. At times, my mood swings and impulsive behavior have caused strain and misunderstandings with those close to me. However, I have also learned to communicate openly and honestly about my condition, which has strengthened my relationships and allowed for a greater understanding and empathy towards my situation. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the stigma surrounding mental illness. I have had to educate my friends and family about my condition, and this has often been a difficult and emotional process. However, through open and honest communication, I have been able to build stronger and more supportive relationships. I have also learned the importance of self-care and setting boundaries in my relationships. I understand that my mental health is a priority and I make sure to prioritize my well-being. This has allowed me to be more present in my relationships and have a more positive impact on those around me. Additionally, my experience with mental health has made me more empathetic and understanding towards others who may be struggling with their own mental health issues. I have a deep appreciation for the support and understanding that my friends and family have provided me and I strive to pay it forward by being a supportive and non-judgmental friend in return. Finally, my experience with mental health has influenced my career aspirations. I am drawn towards a field that allows me to make a difference in the world and protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats. I am passionate about application security and ensuring that technology is used in a safe and secure manner. I have decided to pursue a degree in computer science, with a focus on application security. I believe that by sharing my own journey, I can help others understand the importance of mental health and the need for ongoing support.
    Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
    As the President and Founder of Women in Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University, I have a deep passion for promoting diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry. I believe that it is crucial for women to be given equal opportunities to succeed in this field, and I am committed to doing my part to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in cybersecurity. My passion for diversity in the field of cybersecurity stems from my desire to create a more inclusive and equitable technology industry. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, I understand the importance of having a diverse and supportive work environment. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue a career in technology, regardless of their background, gender, or mental health status. This is why I have dedicated myself to working with Women in CyberSecurity. I am passionate about empowering women to pursue careers in technology and breaking down the gender barriers that exist in the field. I believe that by promoting diversity in the technology industry, we can create a more innovative and inclusive work environment. I have volunteered at various events and workshops, mentoring women and girls interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. I have also been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, speaking at conferences and working with organizations to promote diversity and inclusiveness. My work with women in cybersecurity is also motivated by the underrepresentation of women in the field. Women make up a small percentage of the cybersecurity workforce and I believe that this disparity is due to a lack of representation, mentorship, and support. By working with women and promoting diversity in the field, I hope to help bridge this gap and create a more inclusive and equitable technology industry. Being a part of Women in Cybersecurity has allowed me to connect with other women in the field, and to work together to achieve our goals. Through our events and initiatives, I have had the opportunity to educate and inspire other women to pursue careers in cybersecurity and to provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed. In addition to my work with Women in Cybersecurity, I volunteer every Thursday for the Must Ministries. Must Ministries is a non-profit organization that serves those in need in the Metro Atlanta area. They provide food, clothing, and other necessities to families who are struggling to make ends meet. As a volunteer, I have had the opportunity to work with Must Ministries on several projects, including the distribution of food to families and the organization of clothing donations. Overall, volunteering at Must Ministries has been a truly enriching experience. It has allowed me to give back to my community, learn about the challenges that many people face, and develop important life skills.
    Ruthie Brown Scholarship
    As a single mother, financing my education has been a significant challenge. Unlike traditional students who may have the support of their parents, I have had to rely on myself to pay for my education. While I have always been determined to earn a degree and better provide for my family, the cost of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses has been a constant worry. To make ends meet, I have had to take out student loans to pay for my education. Despite the added financial burden, I have persevered and remained committed to my goal of becoming an application security engineer. I understand that the loans I have taken out will need to be paid back, but I believe that the investment I am making in my education will pay off in the long run. Being a single mother and a student has been a difficult balance, but I have been able to make it work with hard work and determination. I have had to make sacrifices in other areas of my life to ensure that I can afford to pay for my education. Despite the challenges, I know that the education I am receiving and the career I will have in the future will be worth it. I have taken out a significant amount of student loans to fund my education and I am committed to paying them back in full. To achieve this goal, I plan on applying for scholarships and grants to reduce my loan burden. By taking advantage of financial aid opportunities, I aim to lessen the amount of loans I need to pay back once I am working as an application security engineer. In addition to applying for scholarships, I also plan on creating a budget and sticking to it. This will help me to save money, avoid overspending, and ensure that I have enough funds to make payments on my loans. I am also considering working part-time while I am in school to earn additional income and reduce the amount I need to borrow. Once I graduate and start working as an application security engineer, I will prioritize paying back my student loans. I am aware that this will require making sacrifices and being disciplined with my finances, but I am willing to make the necessary changes to achieve my goal. By working hard and being smart with my finances, I am confident that I will be able to pay off my student loan debt and achieve financial stability for myself and my family.
    Eleven Scholarship
    Growing up, I was always fascinated by technology and how it works. Little did I know that my journey to understand the digital world would lead me down a path of self-discovery and resilience. My experience with mental health, specifically my diagnosis of bipolar disorder, has greatly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. My struggles with bipolar disorder have taught me the importance of self-awareness and the need for ongoing self-care. I have learned to understand my triggers and how to manage my emotions in a healthy way. This has allowed me to have a more positive outlook on life and appreciate the small things. My beliefs are centered around the importance of mental health and the need to destigmatize mental illness. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support. Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder has had a significant impact on my relationships. At times, my mood swings and impulsive behavior have caused strain and misunderstandings with those close to me. However, I have also learned to communicate openly and honestly about my condition, which has strengthened my relationships and allowed for a greater understanding and empathy towards my situation. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the stigma surrounding mental illness. I have had to educate my friends and family about my condition, and this has often been a difficult and emotional process. However, through open and honest communication, I have been able to build stronger and more supportive relationships. I have also learned the importance of self-care and setting boundaries in my relationships. I understand that my mental health is a priority and I make sure to prioritize my well-being. This has allowed me to be more present in my relationships and have a more positive impact on those around me. Additionally, my experience with mental health has made me more empathetic and understanding towards others who may be struggling with their own mental health issues. I have a deep appreciation for the support and understanding that my friends and family have provided me and I strive to pay it forward by being a supportive and non-judgmental friend in return. Finally, my experience with mental health has influenced my career aspirations. I am drawn towards a field that allows me to make a difference in the world and protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats. I am passionate about application security and ensuring that technology is used in a safe and secure manner. I have decided to pursue a degree in computer science, with a focus on application security. I believe that by sharing my own journey, I can help others understand the importance of mental health and the need for ongoing support.
    Young Women in STEM Scholarship
    1. As a computer science student, a single mother, and the president and founder of Women in Cybersecurity, I have a lot on my plate. But through it all, I am motivated by my passion for technology and my commitment to making a difference in the world. I first became interested in computer science because I saw the potential for technology to make a positive impact on people's lives. As I have progressed in my studies, I have become increasingly fascinated by cybersecurity, and I have made it my mission to promote diversity and inclusivity in the field. This is why I founded Women in Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University, an organization dedicated to empowering and supporting women who are interested in pursuing careers in the field. Being a single mother has also been a motivating factor for me. I want to set a positive example for my children, and I want to show them that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their dreams. This is why I have made education and personal growth a priority in my life, and I have been able to balance my responsibilities as a mother and student while also serving as the leader of Women in Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University. If I could do anything with my life, I would travel the world. I believe that travel can broaden one's perspective and deepen one's understanding of different cultures and communities. I would use this opportunity to learn about the various challenges faced by women and minorities in different countries, and I would use my knowledge and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. 2. STEM has always been a subject of fascination for me, and I am truly excited about the endless possibilities it offers. From the challenge of learning complex algorithms to the thrill of discovering new technologies, there is never a dull moment in the field of STEM. The idea that I can use my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world only adds to my excitement. As a computer science student, I have a deep interest in information technology and cybersecurity. In a world where technology is becoming increasingly central to our daily lives, the importance of protecting sensitive information cannot be overstated. This is why I have set my sights on becoming an application security engineer and eventually a Chief Information Security Officer. I am confident that I can make a positive impact on the world through a job in information technology. As an application security engineer, I would use my skills to help organizations secure their systems against cyber threats and protect sensitive information. As a Chief Information Security Officer, I would have the opportunity to lead a team of experts and shape the overall security strategy for an organization. This would enable me to have a significant impact on the security of important information and help protect individuals and organizations from cyberattacks. 3. The greatest challenge I have ever had to overcome is being a single mother and having bipolar disorder. Balancing the responsibilities of being a parent and managing a mental illness can be incredibly challenging, but I have learned to manage it through support, education, and self-care. As a single mother, I have had to take on the responsibilities of providing for and raising my child on my own. This can be a difficult task, especially when combined with the ups and downs of bipolar disorder. There have been times when my mood swings have made it difficult for me to focus on my responsibilities as a mother, but I have learned to rely on my support system to help me through those moments. One of the key ways I have managed to overcome this challenge is through education. I have learned as much as I can about my condition and how to manage it effectively. This has enabled me to develop strategies for dealing with my symptoms and reducing the impact they have on my life. I have also learned to recognize the signs of an impending mood swing, which has allowed me to take steps to prevent it from affecting my ability to care for my child. Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge has been self-care. I have learned that it is important to prioritize my own well-being, as this is the foundation of my ability to care for my child. I make time for activities that bring me joy and help me manage my stress, such as yoga, reading, and spending time with friends and family.
    Coleman for Patriots Scholarship
    As the President and Founder of Women in Cybersecurity at Kennesaw State University, I have a deep passion for promoting diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry. I believe that it is crucial for women to be given equal opportunities to succeed in this field, and I am committed to doing my part to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in cybersecurity. My passion for diversity in the field of cybersecurity stems from my desire to create a more inclusive and equitable technology industry. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, I understand the importance of having a diverse and supportive work environment. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue a career in technology, regardless of their background, gender, or mental health status. This is why I have dedicated myself to working with Women in CyberSecurity. I am passionate about empowering women to pursue careers in technology and breaking down the gender barriers that exist in the field. I believe that by promoting diversity in the technology industry, we can create a more innovative and inclusive work environment. I have volunteered at various events and workshops, mentoring women and girls interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. I have also been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, speaking at conferences and working with organizations to promote diversity and inclusiveness. My work with women in cybersecurity is also motivated by the underrepresentation of women in the field. Women make up a small percentage of the cybersecurity workforce and I believe that this disparity is due to a lack of representation, mentorship, and support. By working with women and promoting diversity in the field, I hope to help bridge this gap and create a more inclusive and equitable technology industry. Being a part of Women in Cybersecurity has allowed me to connect with other women in the field, and to work together to achieve our goals. Through our events and initiatives, I have had the opportunity to educate and inspire other women to pursue careers in cybersecurity and to provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed. In addition to my work with Women in Cybersecurity, I volunteer every Thursday for the Must Ministries. Must Ministries is a non-profit organization that serves those in need in the Metro Atlanta area. They provide food, clothing, and other necessities to families who are struggling to make ends meet. As a volunteer, I have had the opportunity to work with Must Ministries on several projects, including the distribution of food to families and the organization of clothing donations. Overall, volunteering at Must Ministries has been a truly enriching experience. It has allowed me to give back to my community, learn about the challenges that many people face, and develop important life skills.
    Jerome D. Carr Memorial Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity
    Growing up, I was always fascinated by technology and how it works. Little did I know that my journey to understand the digital world would lead me down a path of self-discovery and resilience. My experience with mental health, specifically my diagnosis of bipolar disorder, has greatly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. My struggles with bipolar disorder have taught me the importance of self-awareness and the need for ongoing self-care. I have learned to understand my triggers and how to manage my emotions in a healthy way. This has allowed me to have a more positive outlook on life and appreciate the small things. My beliefs are centered around the importance of mental health and the need to destigmatize mental illness. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support. Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder has had a significant impact on my relationships. At times, my mood swings and impulsive behavior have caused strain and misunderstandings with those close to me. However, I have also learned to communicate openly and honestly about my condition, which has strengthened my relationships and allowed for a greater understanding and empathy towards my situation. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the stigma surrounding mental illness. I have had to educate my friends and family about my condition, and this has often been a difficult and emotional process. However, through open and honest communication, I have been able to build stronger and more supportive relationships. I have also learned the importance of self-care and setting boundaries in my relationships. I understand that my mental health is a priority and I make sure to prioritize my well-being. This has allowed me to be more present in my relationships and have a more positive impact on those around me. Additionally, my experience with mental health has made me more empathetic and understanding towards others who may be struggling with their own mental health issues. I have a deep appreciation for the support and understanding that my friends and family have provided me and I strive to pay it forward by being a supportive and non-judgmental friend in return. Finally, my experience with mental health has influenced my career aspirations. I am drawn towards a field that allows me to make a difference in the world and protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats. I am passionate about application security and ensuring that technology is used in a safe and secure manner. I have decided to pursue a degree in computer science, with a focus on application security. I believe that by sharing my own journey, I can help others understand the importance of mental health and the need for ongoing support.