
Hobbies and interests
Artificial Intelligence
Art
Astrophysics
Astronomy
Cybersecurity
Coding And Computer Science
Human Rights
Advocacy And Activism
Game Design and Development
Gaming
Psychology
True Crime
Community Service And Volunteering
Theology and Religious Studies
Data Science
Video Editing and Production
Streaming
Writing
Makeup and Beauty
Hair Styling
Anthropology
Philosophy
Poetry
Reading
Anime
Dungeons And Dragons
Drawing And Illustration
Graphic Design
Spanish
Travel And Tourism
Photography and Photo Editing
Learning
Machine Learning
Law
Latin
STEM
Stargazing
Stocks And Investing
Mental Health
3D Modeling
Spirituality
Statistics
Speech and Debate
Foreign Languages
Forensics
Movies And Film
Studying
Cierra Danielson
505
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Cierra Danielson
505
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
I am a Software Development student at Ivy Tech, driven by a passion for technology, learning, and making a difference. Growing up in an unstable home filled with hardship, abuse, and poverty, I faced challenges that could have defined me—but instead, they fueled my determination to break generational cycles and build a better future for my three children.
As a single mother, education is my path to stability and opportunity. I am passionate about programming, problem-solving, and language learning, currently studying Spanish with aspirations to learn ASL and French. My long-term goals include earning a bachelor's degree in Software Development and potentially pursuing a Doctor of Modern Languages (DML) or a Doctor of Engineering (DEng).
Beyond academics, I am dedicated to helping others. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, offering IT support, or guiding low-income families to resources, I strive to uplift those who, like me, have faced limited opportunities. I plan to develop a platform to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have the tools to succeed.
I am a strong candidate for scholarships because I embody resilience, perseverance, and an unshakable work ethic. Financial support will allow me to obtain essential certifications, secure a thriving career in tech, and create lasting change—not only for my family but for others striving to overcome adversity.
Education
Ivy Tech Community College
Associate's degree programMajors:
- Computer Programming
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Program Development
Dream career goals:
Future Interests
Advocacy
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Entrepreneurship
Kristinspiration Scholarship
Education is more than a personal ambition— it is a lifeline, a means to break the cycles of generational poverty, abuse, and trauma that have plagued my family for far too long. As a single mother of three toddlers, I am not simply pursuing a degree in Software Development for my own fulfillment, but for them—to forge a future where stability, opportunity, and love replace struggle, scarcity, and fear.
I grew up in an unstable household, where my biological parents’ battles with mental illness fostered cycles of abuse. School became my sanctuary—a place where I could excel, immerse myself in learning, and briefly escape the chaos of home. However, the trauma I endured eventually led me down a path of addiction and homelessness. As a teenager, I experienced unimaginable hardship, culminating in an overdose that nearly took my life. Consumed by despair, I dropped out of school, my future slipping further from reach.
At nineteen, everything changed. I became pregnant with twin boys, a moment that forced me to confront the reality that my life was no longer just my own. Determined to build a better future, I fought for sobriety and soon realized that without education, my opportunities were painfully limited. My second pregnancy only deepened my resolve, solidifying my commitment to return to school. In May 2023, I earned my high school equivalency diploma, a milestone that reignited my passion for learning and propelled me toward higher education.
I have an insatiable hunger for knowledge, a relentless drive to expand my understanding and refine my skills. Upon completing my current program, I plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Software Development, becoming the first in my family to achieve such a milestone. This education is more than a degree—it is a key to unlocking a future where my children do not inherit the same struggles I endured. My goal is to secure a stable, well-paying career, ensuring that my children grow up in a household filled with love, opportunity, and security—a stark contrast to my own upbringing.
My pursuit of education is not just about personal success; it is about changing my family’s history. For generations, poverty, addiction, and lack of education have defined our narrative. I refuse to let that cycle continue. Even if my achievements seem small in the grand scheme of the world, they are monumental for my family. By prioritizing education, I am rewriting our story—one where my children are not trapped by the limitations of their past but are instead free to thrive, to dream, and to achieve.
Beyond financial stability, I hope to leave a legacy of kindness, resilience, and compassion. I want to inspire others—especially those who come from similar backgrounds—to believe in their ability to transform their lives. I do not seek recognition, accolades, or fame for my efforts. My only desire is to ensure that my children grow up healthy, educated, and capable of navigating life with confidence and purpose. I want them to be free from the burdens of generational trauma, secure in their identities, and blessed with intergenerational wealth—not just in finances, but in wisdom, love, and stability.
The legacy I hope to leave is one of enduring change—a foundation upon which my children can build their own futures, unshackled from the past. Through education, I am not only breaking cycles; I am building a new future—one filled with hope, opportunity, and endless possibilities.