As a Black woman pursuing mechanical engineering, my impact on women’s empowerment begins with challenging the expectations of who can be an innovator, engineer, and leader. Throughout my academic journey, I have recognized the importance of representation and the power of seeing someone with a similar background succeed in spaces where they have historically been underrepresented. My presence in STEM is not only a personal achievement but also an opportunity to encourage other women to pursue fields where their voices and ideas are needed. I hope to empower women by demonstrating that creativity, empathy, and lived experiences are valuable forms of expertise that can shape the future of technology. My passion for engineering is rooted in creating solutions that improve people’s lives, particularly through wearable technology and design. As the Product Design Lead for The AiroBrace, I helped develop a wearable device designed to support individuals experiencing mobility challenges due to conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. This experience showed me the importance of designing with people rather than simply designing for them. Through user-centered problem solving, prototyping, and collaboration, I learned that meaningful innovation begins with understanding the experiences of those who use the technology. By advocating for inclusive engineering practices, I aim to contribute to a future where women are not only participants in STEM but also leaders in creating solutions that address overlooked needs. Beyond my technical projects, I strive to create a positive impact by building supportive communities for women in STEM. Through leadership experiences, teamwork, and mentorship, I have seen how encouragement and representation can influence someone’s confidence and aspirations. I believe empowerment is created through action and by sharing knowledge, uplifting others, and making opportunities more accessible. Whether collaborating with peers, supporting students interested in engineering, or representing women of color in technical spaces, I hope to help create environments where women feel comfortable taking risks, exploring new ideas, and recognizing their own potential. My involvement with projects like the NYU Ability Project has further shaped my understanding of how engineering can be used as a tool for advocacy and inclusion. Working alongside artists with disabilities to design adaptive tools reinforced the importance of listening to diverse perspectives and ensuring that solutions reflect the needs of the communities they serve. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to developing technologies that are accessible, thoughtful, and impactful while encouraging more women to pursue careers where they can make meaningful change. Looking toward the future, I hope my contributions to engineering extend beyond the products I create and inspire a broader cultural shift within STEM. I want future generations of women to enter engineering spaces without questioning whether they belong. By continuing to innovate, mentor, and advocate for inclusive design, I hope to leave a lasting impact that empowers women to become confident creators, problem solvers, and leaders. My goal is to help build a world where women are not simply included in conversations about technology and innovation, but are driving those conversations and shaping the future.

Before engineering school, I was an strictly an artist. At an arts-focused high school, I explored 3D art, experimenting with scale, lighting, texture, and realism to understand how visual elements influence perception and emotion. Through creating immersive pieces, I learned that meaningful experiences are shaped by more than the object itself; they are shaped by interaction, accessibility, and the story behind the design. I did not realize it then, but this artistic foundation would become the foundation for my approach to engineering. My decision to pursue mechanical engineering came from discovering that I could combine creativity with problem-solving to create solutions that improve people’s lives. I was inspired by the idea that engineering is not simply about building machines or developing new technologies, it is about understanding human challenges and designing solutions that empower people. This belief guided my work on The AiroBrace, a wearable device designed to support individuals experiencing hand mobility challenges due to conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Developing this product showed me that the most impactful engineering begins with empathy. The design process required listening to users, understanding their daily struggles, creating prototypes, and continuously improving the device based on feedback. I learned that engineering success is not measured only by technical performance, but by how effectively a solution improves someone’s quality of life. I continued exploring human-centered design through NYU’s Ability Project: Making Fashion Accessible VIP, where my team collaborates with artists with disabilities to design and 3D print adaptive artistic tools. Working directly with artists reinforced the importance of designing with people rather than designing for them. Seeing how a personalized tool could help someone continue pursuing their creative passions showed me the profound impact thoughtful engineering can have. To “Be More” in my chosen field means creating technology that recognizes and responds to the needs of individuals who are often overlooked. As a mechanical engineer, I hope to contribute to the development of wearable technologies, medical devices, and accessible products that improve independence and expand possibilities for people with physical challenges. My education will give me the technical skills to transform ideas into reality, but my purpose will always come from the people those ideas serve. I want my career to be defined not only by the products I create, but by the lives those products improve. By combining engineering, creativity, and empathy, I hope to build a future where innovation is more inclusive, more accessible, and more human. To “Be More” means continuously challenging myself to create solutions that do more than function, they make a difference.

When I first began exploring artificial intelligence, I did not start with the goal of building the next groundbreaking machine learning model. I started with a problem I personally experienced every day: I could not find a productivity system that worked for me. Every organization app I tried felt like it was designed for a specific type of person, but none reflected the way my mind worked. I needed something beyond a simple checklist or calendar. I wanted a platform that could act as a gateway into my thoughts while transforming them into something structured and manageable. Instead of continuing to search for the “perfect” tool, I decided to build it myself. This idea became "Juh Planner", a personalized productivity application I created with the support of Claude AI. Through this project, I used AI as a development partner to help me understand code, troubleshoot problems, and transform my ideas into a functional application. However, the most important part of the process was not simply using AI to write code, it was learning how to communicate a vision, test solutions, and continuously improve a product based on user experience. As I developed Juh Planner, I constantly found new ways to make the platform more intuitive while keeping it user-friendly. The app became a digital reflection of how I organize my life. I created customizable sections for different areas of my responsibilities, with subsections that allow users to break large goals into manageable pieces. I designed organizational tables, a dashboard displaying weekly deadlines and carried-over tasks, task completion tracking, and priority breakdowns that categorize responsibilities by high, medium, and low importance. I also incorporated features that focused on self-reflection and productivity rather than just task management. The application includes daily check-ins to track progress, category-based analysis to identify areas needing more attention, a journal for personal writing, focus sessions to manage time, a daily schedule, and a calendar integration connected to Google Calendar API. Each feature was created with the goal of helping users understand not only what they need to accomplish, but also how they work best. Building Juh Planner changed the way I view AI. I learned that AI is not simply a tool for automating tasks but can serve as a collaborator that helps individuals bring their ideas to life. It gave me the confidence to experiment, learn new technical skills, and approach problems from a creator’s perspective. Moving forward, I hope to continue exploring AI and machine learning through the lens of human-centered engineering. As a mechanical engineering student interested in wearable technology and assistive design, I want to use intelligent systems to create products that adapt to people’s needs. Whether developing personalized healthcare devices or accessible technologies, I believe the future of AI should focus on improving everyday experiences and empowering individuals. My experience building Juh Planner taught me that innovation often begins with recognizing a problem that others overlook. By combining engineering, artificial intelligence, and empathy, I hope to create technologies that are not only advanced, but meaningful.

"What do you want to be when you grow up?" I was sitting with my basketball team when my coach decided to ask each of us that question. "A singer." "A nurse." "A basketball player." The answers moved down the line until they reached me. "A forensic scientist." A few of my teammates looked at each other and giggled. I understood why. Compared to the other answers, mine sounded different. My coach asked me to explain what a forensic scientist was, and I eagerly described investigating evidence, uncovering hidden details, and using science to solve problems. My fascination came from Barry Allen, also known as The Flash. While others admired his super speed, I was fascinated by his day job. I thought it was amazing that someone could use science to uncover answers that others could not see. My coach smiled proudly and moved on. Years later, I no longer want to become a forensic scientist. However, that moment represents something that has remained constant throughout my life: I have always been curious, ambitious, and drawn toward possibilities beyond what was expected of me. Growing up in an underserved community, those possibilities were not always easy to see. Many students around me followed familiar paths because those were the paths we knew existed. Most people attended nearby universities, pursued careers they had seen modeled, or never had the opportunity to explore fields outside their immediate surroundings. It was not a lack of talent or determination; it was a lack of exposure. For a long time, I did not know how far I could go because I had never seen someone like me go there. Everything changed when my mother introduced me to a magnet high school. For the first time, I was surrounded by students who dreamed about attending universities across the country, pursuing challenging careers, and creating change through their work. That environment expanded my understanding of what was possible. That realization led me to where I am today: a first-generation college student studying mechanical engineering at New York University. I chose mechanical engineering because it allows me to turn curiosity into solutions. I am fascinated by the process of understanding how things work, identifying problems, and designing technology that improves people's lives. Through my experiences with projects such as AiroBrace, an assistive device designed to support individuals experiencing mobility challenges, I discovered my passion for human-centered engineering. To me, engineering is not just about building machines or developing new technologies. It is about understanding people. The most impactful designs come from listening to users, recognizing challenges that are often overlooked, and creating solutions that improve accessibility and independence. I hope to pursue a career focused on wearable technology and assistive devices, developing innovations that help individuals with physical challenges live more comfortably and confidently. Beyond my work as an engineer, I hope to make an impact through representation and mentorship. I know how powerful it is for a young student to see someone pursuing opportunities they never imagined were possible. I want to be that example for students from communities like mine and show them that their circumstances do not define their future. Looking back, I laugh at the little girl who wanted to be a forensic scientist because of a superhero. But she understood something important: she wanted to use knowledge to solve problems and make a difference. Today, I am pursuing that same mission through mechanical engineering. I may not be analyzing evidence in a lab, but I am still searching for answers, creating solutions, and building a future that once seemed impossible.

The person whose story changed mine is my mother’s. Growing up, she constantly reminded me that if you see a problem, you should do what you can to fix it. One lesson she repeated throughout my life was, “Change what you can change and control what you can control.” She never believed in waiting for someone else to step in and solve a problem. Instead, she taught me that if we have the ability to make a difference, we have a responsibility to try. That mindset has shaped the way I view both my education and my community. As a mechanical engineering student, I am constantly looking for ways technology can improve people’s lives. One issue that stands out to me is how mobility limitations and chronic pain, especially in the hands and limbs, are often overlooked in the Black community. Many older adults are taught to be strong and endure discomfort rather than seek medical attention. Others may be hesitant to visit doctors, lack access to healthcare, or feel they cannot afford to slow down because they still have jobs, families, and responsibilities that depend on them. As a result, people often learn to live around the pain instead of addressing it. They may struggle to button a shirt, cook a meal, write a grocery list, or perform tasks they once completed with ease. These challenges can gradually reduce a person’s independence, yet they often go unnoticed because the pain itself is invisible. While many people walk past this problem, I see it because of the values my mother instilled in me. She taught me not to accept difficult situations as permanent simply because they have existed for a long time. If something can be improved, then it is worth trying. That belief inspired me to become Product Design Lead for the AiroBrace Project at my university. Our team worked to design and prototype a wearable device intended to help individuals experiencing pain and discomfort from conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Through that experience, I saw firsthand how engineering could be used to restore comfort, mobility, and confidence to people’s everyday lives. The project also made me realize how much more could be done. AiroBrace is currently a student project, but I often think about what would happen if we had the resources to bring it to a larger audience. Imagine affordable wearables designed specifically for people who need relief but may not have access to expensive treatments. Imagine partnerships with community centers, churches, and local organizations that could educate people about mobility challenges and connect them with solutions before their conditions become debilitating. My mother’s story changed mine because it taught me that change begins when someone decides to take responsibility for what is within their reach. That lesson is the reason I chose engineering, the reason I joined the AiroBrace Project, and the reason I hope to build a career in wearable technology. I cannot solve every problem in the world, but I can use my skills to address the ones I see. If I have the opportunity to improve someone’s quality of life, then I believe I should. That is the kind of impact my mother taught me to pursue, and it is the impact I hope to make for years to come.

My career interest is in assistive technology and inclusive design, where engineering can be used to improve quality of life for individuals facing physical challenges. As a mechanical engineering student at New York University, I am passionate about creating products and technologies that increase accessibility, reduce pain, and promote independence. What excites me most about this field is the opportunity to combine technical problem-solving with human-centered design to create meaningful solutions that directly impact people's daily lives. To pursue this goal, I have actively sought opportunities that allow me to develop both my engineering skills and my understanding of user-centered design. One of the most influential experiences has been working on the AiroBrace, an air-pressurized splint designed to assist individuals with limited mobility caused by arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. As part of the design team, I participated in the product development process from concept generation to prototyping and testing. Through this project, I gained hands-on experience applying engineering principles to a real-world problem while learning the importance of gathering user feedback and incorporating it into design decisions. The experience reinforced my belief that successful engineering solutions must address both technical requirements and human needs. I have also expanded my involvement in inclusive design through the NYU Ability Project: Making Fashion Accessible Vertically Integrated Project (VIP). In this program, I collaborate with artists with disabilities to create customized adaptive tools using 3D modeling and additive manufacturing. Our team designs and prints items such as paintbrush grips, drawing aids, and needle felting tools that are tailored to each artist’s specific abilities and goals. Working directly with users has strengthened my communication, teamwork, and design skills while teaching me how to approach engineering challenges with empathy and creativity. Seeing artists use our tools to engage more fully in their creative work has shown me the powerful impact that accessible design can have on people's lives. Beyond project experience, I continue to build the technical foundation necessary for a career in assistive technology through my coursework in mechanical engineering. Classes in design, manufacturing, mechanics, and prototyping have provided me with the analytical and technical skills required to develop innovative products. I actively seek opportunities to apply these skills outside the classroom through hands-on projects that address real-world challenges. Looking ahead, I hope to work in product development and research within the healthcare technology or wearable technology industries. My long-term goal is to design devices that improve mobility, accessibility, and overall well-being for individuals who are often overlooked in traditional design processes. I am particularly interested in developing technologies that empower people to maintain independence and participate more fully in their daily activities. Every experience I have pursued has brought me closer to this goal by strengthening my technical abilities, expanding my understanding of inclusive design, and reinforcing my commitment to engineering solutions that serve diverse communities. Through continued education, hands-on innovation, and collaboration with users, I am preparing for a career dedicated to creating technology that makes a meaningful difference in people's lives.

As a Black woman pursuing mechanical engineering at New York University, I have always been drawn to the power of STEM to improve people’s lives in meaningful and personal ways. The area of STEM that excites me most is assistive technology and inclusive design because it combines innovation, empathy, and problem-solving to create solutions that directly support people facing physical challenges. I am fascinated by the idea that engineering can restore independence, reduce pain, and help people feel seen and valued in spaces that are often not designed with them in mind. One project that deepened this passion was the AiroBrace, an air-pressurized splint I helped design to assist individuals with limited mobility caused by arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. The device was created to help relieve pain and discomfort while improving everyday functionality for users. Through this experience, I explored product design, prototyping, and user-centered problem solving. More importantly, I learned that the best engineering solutions come from designing with people, not simply for them. Listening to user feedback and refining our design based on real experiences taught me the importance of empathy within innovation. My passion for inclusive engineering continued through my involvement in the NYU Ability Project: Making Fashion Accessible VIP. In this program, my team collaborates directly with artists with disabilities to design and 3D print adaptive tools such as custom paintbrush grips, drawing aids, and needle felting tools. Every project requires creativity, collaboration, and technical thinking because each artist has unique abilities and goals. This experience showed me how engineering can intersect with art, accessibility, and social impact to empower people to fully express themselves. I chose engineering because I want to dedicate my career to creating technologies that improve quality of life, especially for underserved communities that are often overlooked in design and healthcare spaces. Representation also matters deeply to me. As a Black woman in STEM, I hope to inspire other young girls who may not always see themselves reflected in engineering fields to pursue their ideas with confidence and ambition. Kayla Nicole Monk’s story resonates with me because of her determination, resilience, and desire to create a lasting impact. Despite facing major health challenges throughout her life, she still dreamed of helping others and building something meaningful that would outlive her. Her legacy reminds me that adversity is not a limit but motivation and that a person’s ability to inspire change comes from resilience and fortitude. This scholarship would help me continue pursuing opportunities that allow me to expand my technical knowledge, participate in hands-on research and design projects, and develop solutions that make healthcare and everyday life more accessible. More importantly, it would bring me one step closer to making a difference through engineering by creating technology that empowers people, promotes inclusion, and improves lives in the same spirit of perseverance and purpose that Kayla embodied.

To me, legacy is more than a story passed down for generations; it’s the lasting impact of someone’s choices, sacrifices, values, and even their presence. It’s the blueprint we leave behind through our ambitions, and refusal of limitations. As a first-generation college student, legacy is something I think about often, not only what I’ve inherited, but what I hope to pass on. My mother, a single parent, raised me with unwavering love, strength, and sacrifice. She gave up her own opportunities so I could pursue mine, stretching every dollar and bearing every hardship to make room for my future. She always told me, “I wasn’t put on this planet to be just anyone’s mom, I was meant to be your mom.” A sentence that gave me a sense of what purpose was early on. She gave me a belief that I was meant to dream beyond my circumstances and a responsibility to build a life reflective of everything she poured into me. That’s why I’m studying mechanical engineering at New York University with a planned minor in Integrated Design and Media. My goal is to lead in the emerging field of fashion technology—an intersection of engineering, design, and innovation. I’m building a foundation in courses such as materials science, product development, coding, 3D modeling, prototyping, and UX design so that one day I can develop wearable technology that is functional, expressive, and sustainable. My passion for this field began in my EG 1004 engineering course, where my team and I designed a pressurized splint. While the project focused on medical utility, I became fascinated by the wearable aspect and how to make it not only functional but also comfortable, adaptable, and possibly even beautiful. That experience showed me how engineering could intersect with creativity to solve real-world problems and improve lives in unexpected, personal ways. What excites me most about fashion technology is its potential to transform clothing into tools for communication, performance, and wellness. By imagining garments that can respond to a user’s needs, monitor their health, or even just look incredibly awesome, a difference can be made. I want to be at the forefront of creating that future, aiding in the design of smart garments that reflect identity while serving life-changing or even just practical functions. But building that future isn’t easy. Like many first generation students, I’ve faced financial and emotional obstacles. I’ve taken an on-campus job, applied for scholarships, and taken out loans all while balancing academic rigor and maintaining good standing. Each semester brings financial stress, and yet I push forward with the knowledge that I’m not only investing in myself, but rewriting the narrative for those who come after me. Earning this scholarship would alleviate financial strain and allow me to focus more fully on the creative and academic work that will shape my career. It would be more than just funding; it would be a commitment to a vision that blends the sciences and the arts. It would empower me to break generational cycles of limitation and establish a new legacy defined by innovation, access, and purpose. With your support, I will continue pushing boundaries, merging design with engineering, and becoming the kind of change-maker my younger self once dreamed of and the one my family believes I can be.

My current education at New York University is directly preparing me for a career in fashion technology, an interdisciplinary field that combines engineering, design, and innovation. As a mechanical engineering major, I’m building a strong foundation in materials science, manufacturing, and product development, while my planned minor in Integrated Design and Media will strengthen my skills in coding, 3D modeling, prototyping, and UX design. These combined areas are essential for developing wearable technology that is functional, sustainable, and expressive. My interest in fashion tech was sparked by a project in my EG 1004 engineering course, where my team and I designed a pressurized splint. While the project focused on medical utility, I became fascinated by the wearable aspect and how to make the design not only functional, but also comfortable, adaptable, and aesthetically pleasing. That experience opened my eyes to the possibility of merging engineering with creativity to solve real-world problems and improve people’s everyday lives. What excites me most about fashion technology is its potential to transform clothing into tools for communication, performance, and sustainability. Imagine garments that adjust to body temperature, monitor health, or communicate emotion through color or movement. Through my education, I’m gaining the technical and creative skills to bring that vision to life. One day, I hope to work at the forefront of wearable tech innovation—developing smart garments that reflect both identity and functionality. This path allows me to combine my love for design with my engineering mindset, preparing me to make a meaningful impact in a field where technology and self-expression meet. As a first-generation college student, pursuing this dream has not come without challenges. My mother, a single parent, has worked tirelessly to support my education and provide opportunities she never had. I’ve taken proactive steps to ease the financial burden on my family by applying for multiple scholarships, taking an on campus job, and taking out loans, and fighting to stay in good standing academically. However, the cost of attending NYU remains a significant challenge, and each semester presents new financial stress. Earning this scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my ability to continue this journey. As no one in my family has ventured so far or had the opportunities for this experience, continuing this path would be the first step in forming a new legacy for my future kin to follow. It would allow me to focus more fully on my coursework and creative projects, without the constant weight of financial uncertainty. More than that, it would be a powerful investment in my promising future, a future in which I can contribute to the evolution of crossing fashion and technology. One day I will be able to innovate in a way that empowers, assists, and even heals people, all while making my family proud. This scholarship would not just support my education, it would support a vision that blends art, science, and humanity. It would bring me one step closer to redefining the future of wearable technology, championing innovation that is not only practical but also personal. With your support, I can continue to push boundaries, become a leader in a field that reflects both who I am and what I value, and build purposefully into the kind of engineer I’ve always aspired to be.

I chose to further my education in STEAM because it combines my passions for creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. I plan to major in mechanical engineering, a field that bridges the artistic and the analytical. With opportunities in every industry from aerospace to automation, it offers endless possibilities for someone like me: an artist with a love for logic and design. What excites me most about mechanical engineering is its potential to shape the future. Whether designing eco-friendly transportation or advanced robotics I want to push boundaries in STEM while creating functional, innovative, and absolutely beautiful designs. I envision using my creativity to solve problems and contribute to meaningful advancements in the field. My goal is not just to build technical solutions but to approach challenges with a fresh, artistic perspective that enhances both form and function. As a creative Black woman in engineering, I aim to lead by example and inspire others to pursue opportunities in STEM. Representation matters, and I hope to demonstrate that STEAM is a space where diverse voices and perspectives can thrive. I want to lead teams, foster collaboration, and encourage young women of color to break barriers and redefine what it means to succeed in STEM. Beyond technical expertise, I want to mentor others and create a supportive community for underrepresented students and professionals in the field. However, the path to achieving my dreams comes with financial challenges. Attending NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering, my top-choice university, is an incredible opportunity, but it comes with a significant cost. The annual expense exceeds $93,000, and despite receiving some scholarships, the financial gap remains wide. As a first-generation college student, I am determined to pursue higher education but hope to do so without burdening my mother, who has made countless sacrifices to support me, or taking on overwhelming debt myself after graduation. Winning this scholarship would be transformative for me and my family. The financial support would ease the burden on my mother, allowing her to worry less about university payments and giving her peace of mind after years of supporting my education. For me, it would mean focusing entirely on my studies without the constant stress of financial insecurity. I could dedicate myself fully to excelling academically, participating in internships, engaging in research, and contributing to innovative engineering projects. This scholarship would also help me maximize the opportunities available at NYU. By reducing financial strain, I could take advantage of the university’s resources to grow professionally and academically. From collaborating with peers on cutting-edge research to building connections with industry leaders, the support would allow me to pursue my passion for engineering and prepare for a career where I can make a lasting impact. Ultimately, this scholarship is more than financial relief—it’s an investment in the contributions I hope to make to the field of STEM. My goal is to design sustainable solutions, advanced aerospace technologies, and create innovative projects that inspire others. I hope to serve as a mentor and role model, proving that the intersection of art and engineering is not only possible but vital to progress. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving my dreams, honoring the sacrifices my mother has made, and building a future where I can inspire others while making meaningful contributions to the world.

Growing up in a single-parent household with my mother as the central figure has shaped me into the person I am today. Her resilience, support, and guidance instilled in me qualities like independence, creativity, resourcefulness, and drive. These traits have allowed me to adapt to challenges, seek knowledge, develop new skills, and form meaningful connections with others, enabling both myself and those around me to succeed. My mother has always believed in the power of education and self-expression. While she emphasized the importance of academics, she also nurtured my unique talents. Recognizing my artistic ability at an early age, she introduced me to Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (BTWHSPVA). This decision was transformative. BTW allowed me to merge creativity with academics, providing an environment where I could thrive. It became the perfect place for me to break free of the unchanging environment I had grown up in, a place that often stifled my growth and imagination. Through BTW, I was able to fully explore my potential, gain new perspectives, and embrace challenges. This experience fostered a mindset that combines artistic vision with analytical problem-solving skills that I plan to take with me into engineering classrooms and my future career. My mother’s unwavering support in helping me find and follow this path has been instrumental in my success. I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today, earning acceptance to my top-choice school: New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering. As a first-generation college student, I am proud to continue my education, inspired by my mother’s encouragement and the opportunities she made possible for me. I plan to major in mechanical engineering, a discipline that appeals to me because of its innovative and flexible nature. This field spans industries like aerospace and automation, offering endless possibilities for someone with an artistic yet analytical mindset. In the future, I envision using my creativity to push boundaries in STEM. Whether designing cars, rockets, or other technological innovations, I want to contribute not just through codes and data but by creating dynamic, beautiful designs. As a creative Black woman in engineering, I aim to inspire others, take initiative, and lead teams to success. I hope to make a meaningful impact in my field while continuously challenging myself and those around me to achieve greatness. However, the journey to achieve these goals comes with financial challenges. The cost of attending NYU exceeds $93,000 annually, and despite receiving some scholarships, it’s far from enough. Winning any Scholarship would relieve significant financial strain, allowing my mother to worry less about university payments and helping me pursue my dream of graduating debt-free. It would allow me to focus entirely on my education and future, making my mother proud and honoring the sacrifices she has made to help me succeed. My mother’s influence has been a guiding force in my life, helping me become the person I am today. With the support of scholarships, I can continue to build on that foundation, achieve my goals, and create a future that reflects both her dedication and my determination.

Music has been a constant source of comfort as well as inspiration in my life, but Billie Eilish’s music holds a special place in my heart. Discovering her work through my developmental years allowed me to connect with her on a different level. I was able to grow with her on her music journey from “Ocean Eyes” to “HIT ME HARD AND SOFT”. Her work has profoundly impacted me, not just through her lyrics and melodies, but her beautifully soft yet powerful voice. Eilish brings a raw vulnerability and authenticity to her art that never fails to amaze me. In a world where so much music feels mass-produced and created purely for trends, her sound and storytelling stand out as genuinely personal and unique. Billie Eilish’s music has a special way of capturing emotions that feel too complex to articulate, which is why her songs resonate with me on such a deep level. Narrowing down my favorite three songs is no easy task, but if I had to choose, "Everything I Wanted," "When the Party's Over," and "My Future" stand out as the ones that have impacted me the most. "Everything I Wanted" speaks directly to the fears and struggles I rarely share. Its haunting melody and contemplative lyrics feel like a conversation with my own doubts and insecurities. The song’s message of finding comfort and power in the people who love and support us. This song has comforted me in times when I’ve felt overwhelmed, uncertain, or doubted myself. It reminds me that even when life makes me feel uneasy, I shouldn't stay quiet because I am more than likely not alone, and that reassurance means everything. "When the Party’s Over" captures the bittersweet nature of letting go of everything that no longer serves us. Relationships fade, habits die, and we grow and in this song Billie brings that feeling to life. Her raw, sorrowful delivery speaks to the vulnerability I feel when navigating change. It’s a song that feels like a cleansing cry that offers a release and clarity when emotions are too overwhelming to understand. Each time I listen to it, it becomes a moment of self-reflection, helping me process loss and growth. Finally, "My Future" represents a beacon of hope and empowerment. This song illustrates the moments when I’ve learned to embrace optimism and possibility rather than steep myself in self doubt. Billie’s journey of learning to love herself and her future feels like a reflection of my own path to self-discovery and ambition. Its balance of dreamy melodies and uplifting lyrics inspires me to look forward to what’s ahead, even if the road is uncertain. It’s a song that feels like a promise to myself to keep moving, growing, evolving, and always looking toward the bigger picture. These three songs resonate so deeply because they speak to the full spectrum of human emotion: fear, heartbreak, and hope. Billie Eilish’s ability to capture these feelings with such honesty and artistry is what makes her music so powerful to me. Her songs remind me that it’s okay to feel deeply, to embrace the highs and lows, and to always hold on to hope for what’s to come.

I’m a fan of LeBron James because he is the epitome of greatness on and off the court. He’s not only an incredible athlete but a global icon, philanthropist, and leader. On the court, his skills are undeniable as he dominates other players as well as the fans' attention. With his unbelievable versatility, he has mastered every facet of the game, from scoring to assisting to defending, all while maintaining a level of athleticism, grace, and durability that’s basically unheard of in the NBA. James has seamlessly transitioned through the eras of the game, adapting his abilities to continue his 22 year grind, proving his dedication to improvement and excellence. But LeBron’s greatness has a reach that extends far beyond just basketball, he’s taken this opportunity and transformed it into so much more. In 2014, James was named the World’s Most Powerful Athlete by Forbes, citing his peerless influence on sports, culture, and business. He’s become a brand, role model, and a wavemaker. He has revolutionized what it means to be an athlete by building an empire and becoming a mogul through his media, endorsement, and investment opportunities. James’ influence on society is equally as profound, from founding the I Promise School in his hometown of Akron, Ohio for at-risk children to creating SpringHill Company, a platform aimed to amplify diverse voices. LeBron James’ story isn’t just about basketball; it’s about how one individual can use their influence to inspire and unite people across different interests and communities. His ability to balance athletic dominance with cultural and philanthropic impact is absolutely inspiring. Now, the GOAT debate is always a heated one, but LeBron James undeniably has a strong case. James is set apart from other players based on his longevity in the game, consistent dominance, and adaptability. He’s the first player in NBA history to rank in the top five for both points and assists, and he has also led multiple teams to championships, including the Cleveland Cavaliers after a 52-year losing streak for the city, solidifying his legacy. While Michael Jordan’s six championships are often viewed as the ultimate benchmark, LeBron’s statistical dominance, versatility, and leadership give him a different kind of edge. Ultimately, what makes LeBron special is not just his game but the person he is. He’s a leader who has reshaped what it means to be an athlete in the modern era. He’s an innovator who has set the standard for future generations. Whether or not he’s the GOAT depends on what you value most, but there’s no denying that LeBron James has forever changed the game of basketball and redefined what it means to be a global icon.

When I first picked up the book The Maze Runner, I was captivated by the unpredictable labyrinth, the diversity of characters, and the underlying themes of perseverance and determination. Never did I imagine this book would later inspire my favorite movie, sparking my imagination and feeding my interests in two very distinct ways: as an aspiring Mechanical Engineer, fascinated by the biomechanical design of the “Grievers,” and as a lover of intricate storytelling, drawn to the layered connections and backstories of each character. The journey from page to screen is rarely a smooth one, and film adaptations of beloved books can often stir up controversy. The Maze Runner was no exception. While some purists critiqued the creative liberties taken by the filmmakers, I found these changes brought a fresh perspective that enhanced the story’s impact. The reimagined scenes and pacing amplified the tension and stakes, immersing viewers in the harrowing, high-stakes world of the Glade. These thoughtful changes allowed the movie to stand on its own while still honoring the novel’s core themes of resilience, unity, and hope. What truly sets this adaptation apart, however, is its ability to visually bring the novel’s imaginative world to life, elevating the story in ways I never anticipated. The towering, ever-shifting labyrinth, with its intricate and seemingly endless design, was captured through phenomenal cinematography that fully immersed me in the Gladers’ tense and uncertain reality. The Maze wasn’t just a setting—it felt alive, a looming, enigmatic force that shaped the characters’ every decision. Its massive, cold stone walls, combined with the unsettling creaks and groans of its shifting passages, made it feel like a character in its own right, exuding mystery and danger at every turn. Then there were the Grievers that were both terrifying and fascinating. Their haunting blend of mechanical innovation and biological menace was brought to life with incredible detail, from the metallic clicking of their legs to the eerie fluidity of their movements. This combination of engineering creativity and grotesque organic features resonated deeply with my mechanical engineering mindset, inspiring me to think about the intersection of design and storytelling. Seeing these biomechanical creations realized on-screen made the stakes of the story even more visceral and heightened my appreciation for the creative collaboration between art and technology. But beyond the stunning visuals, what makes this adaptation truly special is its emotional depth. The well-illustrated characters and their distinct personalities created a strong connection between the audience and the Gladers. Thomas, the protagonist, embodies resilience and determination, inspiring hope in his companions and in viewers like me. His journey to escape the Maze is not just a fight for survival but a testament to human willpower and the importance of trust and camaraderie. For me, The Maze Runner bridged the gap between reading and viewing by taking the best elements of the novel and breathing new life into them on-screen. It brought the story into sharper focus, merging my love for detailed, imaginative writing with my passion for visually compelling storytelling and creative design. This adaptation doesn’t just complement the book, it redefines and enriches the experience, leaving a lasting impact on readers and viewers alike.

All my life, I lived in Texas, growing up in the same house until four years ago. But as the time came to apply for college, I felt an undeniable pull for something new, a craving for adventure, change, and a completely different way of life. New York City called to me, and New York University shouted even louder. The hustle and bustle, the energy, and the boundless opportunities of the city made my heart race and my eyes sparkle. It was the excitement of the unknown and the promise of something bigger that drew me here. Now, as a proud New Yorker, feeling inspired by this electrifying city, it seemed only fitting to make it the centerpiece of my Connections puzzle. This 4x4 grid of words takes you on a mini-tour of the Big Apple, capturing its boundless energy, cultural depth, and unique charm. So, let’s dive in and explore the magic of the city that never sleeps! First, we have New York City Attractions, the most talked about places amongst non-native New Yorkers. Central Park, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty are the stars here. These landmarks embody the rambunctious spirit of NYC, drawing millions of visitors every year. From strolls in Central Park and street performances in Times Square to jaw-dropping views atop the Empire State Building and the gorgeous sight of Lady Liberty herself, these attractions are pure magic. Next, let’s cheer for New York City Sports Teams: Knicks, Yankees, Rangers, and Islanders. Each team is a powerhouse of pride and tradition that are the root of many feuds but also many bonds. From the slam dunks at Madison Square Garden to the crack of a bat in Yankee Stadium, these teams ignite passion in fans across the five boroughs. As New York is one of the fashion capitals of the world it’s only right to include some of the most memorable fashion hot spots. We’ve got the incredible SoHo, the timeless 5th avenue, the charming Bergdorf Goodman, and the iconic Saks Fifth Avenue. These destinations embody the city’s unique blend of artistry, luxury, and innovation, making New York a global trendsetter in style and creativity. Finally, Cultural Institutions steal the show with the Met, Rockefeller Center, the Bronx Zoo, and Broadway. Whether you’re marveling at priceless art, skating under the Rockefeller tree, or catching a Broadway musical, these icons define New York’s cultural brilliance. These places are not just landmarks, they are experiences that show you New York’s undeniable charm. Ready to dive in and conquer this NYC-inspired puzzle? Just like the city itself, it’s bold, dynamic, and full of surprises!

From a very young age, my mother emphasized the importance of giving back to the community. She involved me in meaningful acts of service, such as helping her pick Christmas presents for the Angel Tree, organizing shoes in homeless center stores, and walking animals at the shelter. Her example instilled in me a deep commitment to community service, a value that has continued to shape my teenage years. As I explored volunteering on my own, I discovered a variety of ways to give back, from working in food pantries to teaching art to younger children at a museum. These experiences not only allowed me to contribute directly but also showed me the potential to create change by inspiring others to serve. This realization motivated me to take the next step: creating opportunities for others to make a difference alongside me. Toward the end of my junior year, I expressed my interest in organizing a donation drive to support a local shelter. Following a conversation with my National Honor Society (NHS) sponsor, I began contacting shelters to assess their needs. After numerous calls, I finally reached someone who was receptive to my plan. With their input, I compiled a list of the shelter's most urgent needs and collaborated with my sponsor to design a realistic and impactful drive. We decided on a hygiene drive. I created promotional materials, including posters and social media posts, to spread the word and encourage participation. Sharing these materials with my NHS sponsor, club officers, and my online followers helped rally support from my school and community. When donations began coming in, I was overwhelmed by the generosity and engagement of those who contributed. This experience not only fulfilled the shelter’s needs but also showed me the ripple effect of involving others in community service. Building on the success of the hygiene drive, I organized two additional service events in April 2024: a second collaboration with the OurCalling shelter and a birthday card-making session with The Birthday Party Project. By hosting multiple opportunities, I enabled more people to get involved, whether through donating essential items or engaging in hands-on volunteering. These events strengthened the impact we could create together, helping both the organizations we partnered with and the participants who found joy in giving back. Through these actions, I have been able to positively impact my community by addressing critical needs, creating opportunities for service, and inspiring others to take part in meaningful work. I believe true commitment to one’s community lies not only in individual contributions but also in fostering a collective effort. Seeing people go above and beyond to help was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together. The change my actions created extends beyond the immediate donations and service. These efforts encouraged others to discover their ability to make a difference. In college and beyond, I plan to continue creating opportunities to serve and bringing others with me to leave an even greater impact.These experiences not only provided tangible benefits to the organizations I worked with but also fostered a culture of giving within my community. By creating accessible opportunities for others to get involved, I witnessed many people embrace the idea of service. This ripple effect was perhaps the most rewarding part of my efforts. It showed me that change doesn’t happen in isolation; it’s built through collective action. The drive, the card-making session, and other events sparked conversations about the importance of service and inspired some of my peers to start their own initiatives, amplifying the overall impact.

Spider-Man is a special kid with crazy skills, intelligence, and special abilities. Though four men have done a wonderful job portraying this hero, Shameik Moore is by far my favorite. Being a teenager, Miles Morales and I already have one thing in common but he takes the youth experience to a whole new level. Although each iteration of Spider-man follows the same story of a boy who stumbles upon great power, he follows the “chosen one” trope in a way different from the rest of the Spider-men. His spider story doesn’t only make him different from the others but will push him to make the necessary changes in his world and the spider society. Miles being an anomaly forces him to choose his own path. As a young person on the edge of entering the world, I hope to choose my own path and push my limits every day just as he does. Moore effectively captures the idea of a black young man from his voice alone, the way he delivers lines with the slight cracks in his voice that give him that child-like feel. Being a child/young person I think the way his story was written gives him a leg up above the others. Even though Morales experiences tragedy he doesn’t come from it. He has a family unit and his world is filled with love which is the fresh feel many heroes lack. Morales’s parents, specifically his mother, along with his uncle being so involved in his life make him far more relatable to me than the others and will push me to choose him every time.

Most great television from our time or before is centered around a love triangle that often rips the fan base in two. Stefan or Damon, Edward or Jacob, Peyton or Brooke, Noah or Lon, and some of the greatest film relationships come from these frustratingly nerve-racking situations. Damon and Elena, Bella and Edward, Lucas and Peyton, and Noah and Allie. The next upcoming relationship is a triangle between Belly, Conrad and Jeremiah. Though both boys have many great attributes, it’s obvious that most people lean toward Conrad’s dark, deep, and brooding nature. While it was exciting at first it became overall tiring. Many saw his actions as a test of his and Belly’s love but it soon became a test of her patience. Belly being as young and energetic as she is needs someone who can keep up with her and be a breath of fresh air in her life during these formative years. I am team Jeremiah because he can be that sunshine in her life. Over the course of the series, we get to watch both relationships develop and change not only romantically but platonically as well. It is clear to us that Conrad and Belly have never necessarily been friends, she’s only ever seen him as a crush/boyfriend and he’s only ever seen her as nothing in particular until he dated her. Because of Belly’s rose-colored view of him, she’s always been willing to fight for him but “Conrad has not shown her that he will ever be willing to fight for that relationship as much as she will.” stated Lola Tung (Belly’s actress) in an interview. We get a glimpse of this in the infamous beach scene of season 2 episode 6 where Belly expresses “If I had known [...] that you cared that much about me and about us [...] I would’ve fought for you.” and he says “what do you mean [...] I thought you knew, I thought you knew.” showing that he could never truly express his feelings for her in a way that she needed. Though he was still in love with her, when she says “I thought that we loved each other.” he simply says “We did”, running away from her yet again, making him the dark cloud. In the same previously mentioned interview, Tung stated “And here’s Jeremiah, you know, ready to fight for her, continuing to fight for her, just proving [...] constantly how much he loves her and cares about her even in watching her be with Conrad”. When he tries to be angry with her within the first episodes of season 2, in episode 2 he shows that this anger he feels is only a longing for her love even if it’s only as friends. As he breaks down in her arms, he cries “I had Dad and Conrad sort of but I needed you and you just weren’t there.” Jelly’s relationship is a sequence of ups and downs but it has always been built on a beautiful friendship which helps Jeremiah to fight for her in the way she wants. Throughout the season we watch this friendship evolve from those few kisses to falling in love. We now see Belly fawning over him, the ear-to-ear smile she gets from talking about him, and in the end she chooses him. Belly and Jeremiah match each other so incredibly well that it’s a shock the writers didn’t put them together sooner.

Earlier this year in the spring, I Volunteered with the Birthday Party Project as a “Birthday Enthusiast” for the Family Gateway shelter. A Birthday Enthusiast is a volunteer who helps set up birthday parties in shelters for kids who happen to be celebrating their birthdays that specific month. I was lucky enough to join the fun and facilitate activities and games for everyone who came to the celebration. Being a superhero theme, we designed masks, played “Capture the Villain”, had a Hulk Smash game, etc. While all these activities were amusing, the best part was the kids smiling and their parents enjoying it with them. If I were to create my own non-profit I would love to take the party aspect and use it for major holidays. My organization would be called “The Holidayz” and our concern would be to make the major holidays as enjoyable as possible. We’d have Christmas parties, family Valentine’s celebrations, Halloween Bashes, classic Easter activities, Thanksgiving dinners, and even St. Paddy’s Day luck fests. We would also focus on parents who are there as well. Mother’s Day and Father’s Day festivities would be very important to celebrate to let them know that even if they aren’t where they want to be they can still be appreciated. There would be face painting, food, snacks, music, all the way down to costumes and anything else that would make a party fun for every occasion. Clothes, shoes and hygiene are very important to keep up and aid in but so is joy, and while other places bring in the survival factors we’ll bring in that glee. As a Birthday Enthusiast, I saw kids come out of their shells, sprout small grins, have fun with each other, and families relish that given time. During that time I came across a set of twins who were turning twelve years old and while one of the girls tried to contain her excitement to seem cool, the other couldn’t stop smiling at me and I couldn’t help but smile back. She was beaming from head to toe and it said to me things like this don’t happen too often. If I had a non-profit, I would want to continue dishing out that exact feeling, giving them something to talk about for days to come. My mission would be to help them live rather than just survive. Our positive impact would be those smiles of pure happiness, even if only for a second.

I am an ambitious, hardworking, loyal, and determined person but most of all I am intelligent, wise and creative. Because I hold these traits so highly I would be a Ravenclaw. I chose this house because it’s more than what meets the eye. Ravenclaws are often seen as simple, studious bookworms but the clear character differences from Luna Lovegood to Gilderoy Lockhart to Professor Quirrell show the sheer diversity amongst the house, solidifying its claim to creativity. Witnessing the assortment of personalities allows us to appreciate the depth of the house. One of Harry Potter’s most famous characters, Luna Lovegood, is the embodiment of Ravenclaw. She is smart and talented but she is most known for her bold look. The way she chooses to express herself with her clothing and accessories is pure creativity at its core. She thinks outside the box and often sees things beyond what they are or are meant to be, giving power to the Ravenclaw roots. The most inspiring aspect of Ravenclaws is their will to succeed and thirst for knowledge. Rowena Ravenclaw once stated “Wit beyond measure, is a man’s greatest treasure.” Considering people aren’t born with random knowledge you have to work for it. Having the ability to pick it up as well as having a strong thirst for more will put you light years ahead of others in anything you do and as long as you crave knowledge you can only get smarter. I believe I’m a perfect fit for this house because, as stated before, I am intelligent and creative. These traits I hold shine in my extracurriculars like the National Honor Society, Dallas Museum of Art Teen Ambassadors, Student Voter Empowerment Coalition, the annual African American show, African American Student Mentorship program, Fashion club, an intern for Fred Villanueva (Ash Studios) as a muralist for the Mckesson company and an intern at the Dallas Museum of Art beginning fall of 2023. There is a mix of smarts and artistic creativity in every detail of my life from my school, an arts magnet, to my hobbies that I get to spread in every opportunity I encounter. This great house is filled with welcoming, eccentric, extraordinary, and witty intellectuals. It would be an honor to be a part of Ravenclaw and share myself with them but more importantly, learn from others in the house to gain new knowledge and expand on what I already know.

We often hear Barbie say “You can be anything!” and proves it to us by being everything. Fashion designer, Astronaut, Soldier, Matador, Engineer, Barbie has been almost everything you can imagine but we’ve never seen Barbie as a time traveler. Every Barbie has a special place but there would be nothing better than a tech-based dreamhouse with a little magic and tons of pink! Set in Malibu, in the year 2099, Barbie decided to settle down and build her dream home on Fabu Drive. Starting at the front of her home we have a beautiful, techno-fabulous foyer with curved staircases on each side of the room, a disappearing elevator, and a water fountain hologram. After entering the front door, you are met with two robo-butlers, Taffy and Tawny. Tawny offers you beverages while Taffy offers you snacks and after snack time you may move on with the guide, B.L.I.S.S.A. As the main frame of the home B.L.I.S.S.A., Barbie's Lead Intelligent Senior Software Assistant, knows every nook and cranny of the build. She will then take you toward the staircases which transform from stairs to escalators to slides (if you’re looking for a little fun). Just under the stairs, you are met with a podium that has a screen that shows several different options: living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom (Barbie, Skipper, Stacie, Chelsea), Closet, Garage, Lab, etc.. Today we will focus on four main rooms: the living room, Barbie’s bedroom, the closet, and the Lab. As you enter the living room your view is of a large, pink, empty area but to the right of the door is a panel that states “Living Mode: On/Off”. After clicking “on” you may watch the room unfold. The wall and floor panels shift, revealing seating, an entertainment center, a gorgeous rug, an even prettier coffee table and an automated cart that lowers from the ceiling with drinks (if you’re feeling a little parched). As you are seated, you are greeted with a headset that fits to your comfort level, that will control the television and lights at just a thought. We will continue on toward Barbie’s personal space: the bedroom and closet. As you walk into the bedroom you will first notice her breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows that, at the touch of a button, can change scenery at any time. When the scenery amongst the windows changes, her bed setup may change with it to match the vibe. Barbie’s favorite setting is the pink forest with its comfy, log cabin-style bed and peaceful trees. Just past Barbie's resting area is where we’ll find her closet, hidden behind a pivoting wall panel. We first see her everyday clothing but after pressing a button the wall behind them opens up into a vast space with three floors and labeled rooms. Each room has a different style and era of clothing which match every adventure she’s had since she began time traveling. But time traveling would not continue to be possible if the most important room in the house didn’t exist: the lab. Barbie has been building the lab for as long as she can remember with pieces of technology from each era she’s visited. When you enter the room you go through a cleansing booth so whatever toxins you carry don’t destroy her work. After entering, you see her simple workstation with tools rising from the floor, her travel pod emerging from the wall and her robot helper zooming from its charging station. Barbie thanks you for visiting and hopes you can come back soon!