My career goal is to become a civil engineer, specializing in structural engineering—developing affordable housing with sustainable practices. Growing up, I would volunteer to feed the homeless every year on my grandmother’s birthday. Talking to individuals who didn’t have a safe place to call home deeply impacted me and inspired my desire to create solutions for those facing housing insecurity. The early experiences I had made me have a passion to use civil engineering as a way to address socioeconomic disparities and improve the quality of life for underserved communities. As a civil engineering student, I am equipping myself with the technical knowledge and problem-solving skills necessary to tackle pressing issues such as housing instability and infrastructure inequality. I envision a career where I can work on innovate housing projects that prioritize accessibility, environmental sustainability, and cost-efficiency. My goal is to design solutions that not only provide shelter but also foster community resilience and growth. In addition to affordable housing, I aim to contribute to broader infrastructure projects, ensuring that all communities, regardless of socioeconomic status, have access to clean water, safe transportation, and functional public spaces. I also aspire to mentor young students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, to inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields. This scholarship will bring me closer to achieving these goals by allowing me to focus on my education and future opportunities, ensuring that I can make a lasting impact in the field of civil engineering and in the communities that need it the most.

One of the most significant challenges I have faced in my life was the uncertainty of securing a stable home after graduating from high school. My mom had always dreamed of owning a house, and around the time I was preparing for college, she began working toward that goal. At the same time, my dad had promised to cover my college tuition, but when the time came, he couldn’t afford it. This left my mom with the overwhelming tsk of figuring out how to pay for both my tuition and the house she was investing in. Without me knowing, the money my mom had saved up was meant for either the house or my tuition, not both. Despite her best efforts, she was forced to seek alternative solutions. A friend of hers stepped in and helped me secure a loan for my education, which eased the burden temporarily. However, the financial strain on my mom remained, and she had to move out of the house she had been investing in before my second year of college. She and I both learned the harsh reality of how difficult it can be to access affordable housing. Eventually, my mom was able to move into a home with the help of her friend, but her experience highlighted the challenges many people face when trying to balance financial priorities and find a stable living situation. This experience not only shaped my perspective but also strengthened my resolve to make a difference. As a civil engineering major, I aim to address the issue of affordable housing by designing a developing sustainable and accessible living spaces for people from all walks of life. Receiving this scholarship will bring me one step closer to achieving this goal by alleviating some of my own financial burdens, allowing me to focus on my studies and pursue this mission wholeheartedly. To encourage young people to pursue philately, I would highlight how stamps serve as a window to history, culture, and art. Collecting stamps fosters curiosity about the world, teaching young people about significant events, places, and individuals. I would crate interactive workshops and exhibits that showcase unique and rare stamps while explaining their historical significance. Introducing stamp design competitions in schools could make the hobby more engaging by allowing students to express their creativity and learn about the intricate process behind stamp creation. Through these efforts, I hope to inspire the next generation to embrace this hobby that connects us to our global heritage and history.

Civil engineering is more than just designing and building infrastructure. To me, it represents innovation and creating solutions to improve the quality of life. This field plays a critical role in shaping society by providing safer buildings, better water systems, efficient transportation, and sustainable land. Without civil engineering, our standard of living would suffer significantly. It’s an essential field that addresses both immediate needs and long-term challenges to ensure the well-being of our communities and environment. My passion for civil engineering began at an early age, influenced by experiences that made me aware of housing instability. Since I was 10 years old, my family and I celebrated my grandmother’s birthday by feeding the homeless. Each interaction left a lasting impression on me, especially hearing the stories of individuals who had no place to call home. It saddened me to witness such hardships, which led me to want a future where everyone could have access to stable housing. My participation in two mission trips further strengthened my career goal. On a mission trip to New Mexico, I had the opportunity to serve the Navajo Nation, learning about their community and working to support their needs. Another trip to the Dominican Republic allowed me to serve the village of San Jose, where I witnessed how infrastructure can directly impact the quality of living/homes. In high school, I pursued this vision by enrolling in architecture and engineering classes to prepare for college, though I took mostly engineering courses. This means that I’m used to creating technical innovative designs to improve various ways of life. Initially, I was drawn to architecture for its focus on designing spaces and buildings. However, I realized that architecture required artistic skills, like hands on model-making, drawing and architectural abstract, that were’t my strength. This lead me to question whether it was the right fit for me. After a year as an architecture major in college, I transitioned to civil engineering, a field that felt more aligned with my skills and aspirations. Civil engineering offered the technical rigor and versatility I sought, allowing me to design and construct solutions that address critical societal needs, such as sustainable affordable housing. Throughout my journey, I have faced challenges that have shaped my determination to succeed. The transition from architecture to civil engineering wasn’t hard, but it also wasn’t easy as it required me to adapt to a new set of expectations. However, I leaned on the foundation of engineering principles I learned in high school and sought mentorship from professors and students to navigate this shift. Balancing coursework with my passion for serving others has taught me resilience and strengthened my commitment to this field. My goal as a civil engineer is to contribute to the development of affordable housing projects using sustainable practices. I’m invested in how civil engineering incorporates materials and designs to build structures that aren’t only cost-effective but also long-lasting. I want to bridge the gap between technical expertise and social impact by creating spaces that provide stability and dignity to underserved communities. This scholarship would help me continue my education and enable me to focus on my ultimate goal of improving housing stability for vulnerable populations. With the knowledge and skills I gain as a civil engineer, I hope to create tangible solutions that transform lives and communities for the better.

From a young age, I’ve always been driven by a desire to help others. My personal experiences have shaped a deep understanding of the struggles many face, especially when it comes to housing instability and mental health challenges. This understanding has inspired my dual dream: to design affordable homes and to establish a clothing line dedicated to mental health awareness. The importance of a safe, stable home cannot be overstated. For many, the high costs of housing present an insurmountable barrier, contributing to stress and uncertainty. My goal is to leverage my skills in architecture, civil engineering, and design to create affordable, sustainable housing solutions. These homes will be both aesthetically pleasing and practical, incorporating energy-efficient technologies to reduce long-term costs for residents. To realize this aspect of my dream, I plan to obtain a degree in civil engineering. I used to be an architecture major, wanting to design homes like the nice ones on Pinterest, but I realized I operate on a more technical aspect than aesthetics, since architecture incorporates art into it. I also took more engineering classes than art classes; I only took a design class, and the rest was engineering. I want to focus on sustainable and affordable housing design, designing structures and calculating how things work for the homes’ function to exist. Gaining experience is also important to me as I plan to intern with firms that specialize in affordable housing projects to gain practical knowledge and experience. I would like to connect with nonprofits and government agencies that focus on housing issues to understand the needs and challenges better. I believe that researching and developing cost-effective building materials and construction methods can be utilized in my designs. Moreover, I think that working with communities to build these homes ensure they meet the specific needs of the residents. In addition to housing issues, mental health is a critical issue that affects millions, yet it is often stigmatized and misunderstood. Having experienced mental health challenges myself, I know how isolating it can be. My clothing line aims to raise awareness, foster community, and provide comfort to those who are struggling. To bring this vision to life, I plan to take courses in fashion design and business management to acquire the necessary skills to run a successful clothing line. I also plan to partner with mental health organizations to ensure the messages on my clothing are accurate, respectful, and impactful. I want to create designs that incorporate positive messages, symbols of hope, and information on mental health resources. As an advocate, I believe that raising awareness is important. I would often use social media and public events to promote the clothing line and the importance of mental health awareness. I plan to give back by allocating a portion of the proceeds to mental health charities and support groups to further aid those in need. Ultimately, my dream is to create solutions that lessen people’s problems, whether through the security of a stable home or the support of a community that understands mental health challenges. By addressing these fundamental issues, I hope to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, providing them with the stability and support they need to thrive. This scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve my dream. It will provide the financial support necessary to pursue my education and gain the skills required to turn my vision into reality. With dedication and hard work, I am confident that I can make a lasting impact on the world, one home and one garment at a time.

During my first year in college, I embarked on a journey as an architecture major, excited about the prospects of designing and creating spaces that inspire. However, as I delved deeper into the coursework, I encountered significant challenges, particularly in the artistic aspects of the program. Drafting and theoretical components were manageable, but model-making proved to be a formidable obstacle. The hands-on nature of making intricate models of homes and abstract structures was foreign to me, as I hadn't engaged in such activities since middle school. This gap in my experience became a source of frustration and self-doubt. The adversity I faced in architecture led me to a profound realization: my strengths and passions lay elsewhere. After a year of struggling to adapt to the artistic demands of architecture, I decided to switch to civil engineering. This decision was not taken lightly, but it was driven by a deep-seated understanding that my skills and interests were more aligned with the technical and practical aspects of engineering. My high school years were filled with engineering classes, and I thrived in those environments. This background has equipped me with a technical-operating mindset, which feels natural and fulfilling. Transitioning to civil engineering has been a turning point in my educational journey. It has reaffirmed my belief that overcoming adversity is not about forcing oneself to fit into an ill-suited mold but about finding the right path that resonates with one's abilities and passions. This experience has taught me resilience and the importance of self-awareness in navigating challenges. My passion for pursuing a STEM degree is fueled by a desire to make a tangible impact on the world. I am particularly motivated by the potential to contribute to sustainability and affordable living for less fortunate communities. Civil engineering offers the opportunity to improve infrastructure and create solutions that enhance the quality of life for many. The prospect of designing and building sustainable, affordable housing and infrastructure that serves diverse communities excites me. It aligns perfectly with my values and my vision for a better, more equitable world. Financially, my journey towards higher education has been shaped by the realities of being raised by a single mother. My mother has always been my rock, working tirelessly to provide for our family and support my academic aspirations. Her dedication and sacrifice are a constant source of motivation for me. However, the financial burden of college is significant, and it weighs heavily on both of us. Securing a scholarship is not just about easing the financial strain; it is about honoring my mother’s hard work and enabling me to pursue my dreams without the constant worry of how to fund my education. This scholarship would be instrumental in supporting my educational goals. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. It would also be a testament to the belief that with perseverance and support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome. Achieving a degree in civil engineering is not just a personal goal but a step towards contributing positively to society, and this scholarship would play a crucial role in making that possible. In conclusion, the adversity I faced in my initial choice of major has led me to a more suitable and fulfilling path in civil engineering. My passion for STEM is driven by a commitment to making a difference through sustainable and affordable infrastructure. The financial challenges posed by my single-parent background are significant, but with the support of this scholarship, I am confident in my ability to achieve my educational and professional goals.

From an early age, I have been captivated by the built environment. I have always marveled at how structures come to be, the intricacies of their design, and their impact on the communities they serve. This fascination led me to pursue architecture as my major in my first year of college. My ambition was to design affordable living homes, to create spaces that not only provide shelter but also enhance the quality of life for those who inhabit them. However, as I delved deeper into my architectural studies, I encountered challenges that made me reassess my career path. Architecture, as I soon discovered, requires a significant amount of artistic skill. The abstract nature of architectural design, combined with the need for proficiency in drawing and model making, presented hurdles I struggled to overcome. I found myself at odds with the more artistic elements of architecture, despite my strong passion for creating functional and sustainable living spaces. Reflecting on my strengths and interests, I realized that my aptitude lay more in the technical aspects of design and construction. My high school education had been heavily oriented towards engineering, where I thrived in subjects like physics, mathematics, and technical drawing. This realization prompted a pivotal decision: to transition from architecture to civil engineering. Civil engineering offered a perfect blend of technical and creative problem-solving, allowing me to engage with the structural and functional aspects of building design. This field provided a pathway to fulfill my original goal of designing affordable living homes, but through a different lens—one that aligns more closely with my skills and interests. In my pursuit of civil engineering, I have been particularly drawn to structural engineering. This specialization allows me to focus on the stability and durability of buildings, ensuring that they can withstand various forces and remain safe for occupants. The idea of designing the skeletal framework that supports a building is fascinating to me, as it combines rigorous scientific principles with the creativity required to solve complex problems. Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that civil engineering presents. I envision myself working on projects that address the critical need for affordable housing, using my skills to create safe, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. My goal is to design not just individual homes but entire communities that foster a sense of belonging and improve the quality of life for residents. Civil engineering, with its focus on the technical and structural aspects of building, is the ideal field for me to make a meaningful impact. It allows me to leverage my strengths in mathematics and science while staying true to my passion for improving the built environment. My journey from architecture to civil engineering has been one of self-discovery and alignment with my true interests and abilities. In conclusion, my initial foray into architecture sparked a deep interest in the built environment and a desire to contribute to society through design. However, it was my recognition of the need for a more technical approach that led me to civil engineering. This field aligns perfectly with my skills and aspirations, providing a path to achieve my dream of designing sustainable, affordable living homes. With the knowledge and experience I gain, I am determined to make a positive impact, creating structures and communities that stand the test of time and enhance the lives of those who call them home. This scholarship will help me continue my education at Howard, and be on the path to my future career goal. Designing and engineering sustainable, affordable homes has always been my number one goal.

The loss of my grandmother on January 29, 2023, was a pivotal moment in my life that shifted my focus to what truly matters and solidified my resolve to achieve meaningful goals. My grandmother was a cornerstone of my upbringing, imparting invaluable lessons and embodying a spirit of selflessness and resilience that continues to guide me. My grandmother taught me core values that I hold dear to this day. She believed that you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it and that surrounding yourself with people who love and care about you is essential. These principles were not merely words but a way of life she modeled every day. Born to a single mom who was a college student, I relied heavily on my grandmother. She watched over me while my mom attended college classes, a crucial support that allowed my mother to complete her degree. Without her help, my mom might not have been able to graduate, given the challenge of raising a toddler. My grandmother’s role in my early life was foundational, and her influence is deeply ingrained in who I am today. One of the most cherished aspects of my grandmother was her dedication to preserving and sharing her Trinidadian heritage. Her culinary skills were unmatched, and her storytelling brought the rich culture and folklore of Trinidad to life for her American-born family. These traditions fostered a sense of identity and pride in our roots, and they continue to be a source of comfort and joy for me. During my high school years, I faced significant mental health challenges. My grandmother, with her experience working at a mental health center as a records analyst, provided me with the understanding and support I needed. She had a unique insight into my struggles and offered guidance and empathy that were crucial during those difficult times. The day my grandmother passed away was profoundly sorrowful and confusing. I had always envisioned her being there to see me graduate from college and achieve my dreams. Her death felt untimely and left a void that was hard to comprehend. However, in reflecting on her life and legacy, I realized that the best way to honor her is to live by the values she instilled in me and to carry forward her spirit of service to others. One of the most inspiring aspects of my grandmother’s life was her annual tradition of serving food at a homeless feeding site on her birthday. This act of kindness and community service deeply impacted me and is a tradition I aim to continue. My career goal of becoming a civil engineer is intertwined with this aspiration. I am driven to design affordable living homes and communities for the less fortunate, a tangible way to extend my grandmother’s legacy of compassion and service. In my pursuit of a college education, I am motivated not only by personal ambition but by a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. My grandmother’s life and values serve as a guiding light in this journey. The lessons she taught me about resilience, compassion, and the importance of community are the bedrock upon which I build my future. The loss of my grandmother has profoundly impacted my perspective on what is important in life. It has reinforced my commitment to my education and my goals. By achieving success in my career and dedicating myself to the service of others, I hope to honor her memory and continue the legacy of love, support, and community she so deeply believed in. This scholarship will not only help me achieve my educational and professional aspirations but will also enable me to contribute meaningfully to society, just as my grandmother taught me.

I believe that mental health is crucial because it fundamentally influences every aspect of our lives. My mental health journey began in my sophomore year of high school, marking a period of significant transition and challenge. Moving from a diverse public school to a private school was a profound shift that tested my resilience and self-perception. As one of the few Black students at this new school, I felt a constant sense of being watched and judged. This feeling of being an outsider fostered a host of negative thoughts about myself. The social isolation and cultural disconnect were overwhelming, leading me to engage in unhealthy behaviors in a misguided attempt to alleviate my emotional pain. Rather than finding relief, these actions only deepened my distress and alienation. This challenging period taught me the vital importance of mental health. It became clear that my mental well-being affected my self-esteem, academic performance, and overall quality of life. Neglecting my mental health had pervasive consequences, underscoring the necessity of maintaining a positive and healthy mindset. Despite these difficulties, my experience at the private school ultimately strengthened me. Confronting and overcoming these adversities helped me develop resilience and a better understanding of my mental health needs. I emerged from this experience with a newfound appreciation for the importance of mental wellness and the strategies required to sustain it. To maintain my mental wellness, I have several effective practices. CBT has been instrumental in helping me manage and reframe negative thoughts. By identifying and challenging harmful thought patterns, I have learned to replace them with more positive and realistic perspectives. This process has significantly improved my emotional well-being and provided me with practical tools to handle stress and anxiety. Open communication with friends is a cornerstone of my mental health maintenance. Sharing my feelings and experiences with trusted individuals offers emotional support and a sense of connection. These conversations help me feel understood and less isolated, providing a valuable outlet for processing my emotions. Physical activity, especially walking, has a profound impact on my mental health as well. Walking not only offers a break from stressful situations but also promotes physical well-being, which is closely linked to mental health. The rhythmic nature of walking and the exposure to nature or different environments help clear my mind and reduce stress. Writing is another key strategy I use to maintain my mental wellness. Whether through journaling or creative writing, this practice allows me to explore and express my thoughts and feelings in a safe and constructive manner. Writing helps me organize my thoughts, gain insights into my emotions, and develop coping strategies for dealing with challenges. These activities collectively help me delve into the root causes of my distress and devise effective ways to improve my mental state. By engaging in these practices, I am better equipped to manage stress, maintain a positive outlook, and navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and clarity. In conclusion, I believe mental health is of paramount importance because it affects every facet of our lives. My journey through a challenging high school transition highlighted the profound impact mental health has on my overall well-being. By utilizing strategies like CBT, open communication with friends, regular physical activity, and writing, I actively maintain my mental wellness. These practices not only help me manage stress but also foster a deeper understanding of myself and my emotional needs. Maintaining mental wellness is an ongoing process, and I am committed to nurturing my mental health as I continue to grow and face new challenges.

Throughout my life, there has been one woman who has profoundly inspired me and shaped my outlook on the world: my godmother. She has been a constant source of love and support since before I was born, being my mother’s best friend since fifth grade. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to self-love and cultural pride, which makes her an extraordinary role model in my life. My godmother’s parents are from Ghana, but she was born in the United States. Growing up, she faced significant challenges, particularly due to her dark skin tone. Despite its undeniable beauty, she was often bullied for her skin color. It saddens me to see how something as superficial as skin tone can have such a profound impact on our lives. Yet, her ability to rise above this adversity and embrace her identity with confidence and pride has always been a source of strength for me. Visiting her in New York City was always a highlight of my childhood. While she worked at an office, she still made time to explore the city with me, from the bright lights of Times Square to the vibrant streets of Chinatown and the bustling atmosphere of Union Square. These adventures were not only fun but also filled with valuable life lessons. She taught me to see the world with curiosity and openness, to appreciate different cultures, and to find joy in every moment. In addition to her office job, my godmother pursued her passion for fitness by starting Kukuwa Fitness, a business that combines African dance workouts with her deep-rooted love for her heritage. She began by posting videos online, featuring energetic and joyful dance routines with her mother. These videos quickly gained popularity, amassing thousands to millions of views. Her infectious enthusiasm and the cultural richness of her workouts resonated with people worldwide. Her success didn’t stop at online videos; she began hosting live dance workout sessions and traveled across the globe, spreading the joy of African dance and fitness. She also organized trips to various African countries, offering people a firsthand experience of the continent’s beauty and diversity. Through these endeavors, she not only promoted physical fitness but also fostered a greater appreciation and understanding of African culture. I couldn’t be prouder of my godmother’s achievements. She has shown me that it’s possible to turn one’s passions into a successful career while making a positive impact on the world. Her journey inspires me to pursue my dreams with the same dedication and resilience. I look forward to exploring more of the world with her in the future and learning from her boundless energy and love for life. In conclusion, my godmother’s life and accomplishments have had a profound influence on me. Her ability to overcome adversity, celebrate her cultural heritage, and inspire others through her work has made her a beacon of strength and inspiration. She has taught me the importance of embracing one’s identity and following one’s passions, no matter the obstacles. For these reasons and more, she is the black woman who inspires me the most.

I moved to Georgia right before I started high school. I barely knew anyone in Georgia besides my aunt, uncle, and two cousins who already lived there. I attended a private school for most of my high school experience, which ended up being a lot more difficult than I thought. I found myself having trouble with school socially and academically. I had trouble making friends because it has a small school population, and everyone had known each other for years. I was also one of the few black people attending the school, so that could also be a factor. I started having a little difficulty keeping up with schoolwork because I was not motivated enough. I knew that I was going to have to get my grades back up, so I tried everything I could to make sure that happened. First and foremost, I decided to go to therapy. I knew what I was dealing with was a battle, and I needed to know how to fight that battle. After two years of going to therapy, I found improvement in school socially and academically. I started to surround myself with people who were nice, genuine, caring, and understanding. Ever since then, my grades started to improve, and I was in a better mindset. In the future, I plan to surround myself with people who are better for my mental health, so in that way I have the motivation to keep going with my future goals and education journey, even if the education or environment is difficult. An example of this would be architecture. I would like to be in the residential field of architecture, building homes for fortunate and unfortunate people. I heard that architecture is one of the hardest fields to learn in STEM, but I was in an architecture class with two of my dearest friends. They made architecture more enjoyable for me simply because they were there, and as a result, my grades in architecture were the best they could ever be all year long. In college, I will attend every class with optimism and build a network of architecture or civil engineering. I believe having a network full of people will be the best for me to be strong in my education and career field because no one can do something by themselves. The greatest success stories come from those who have dealt with many troubles, but they thrived from the people that God sent to them. Me believing in myself has helped me be where I am at now. Thanks to me trying my best in school despite the circumstances, I still managed to pick myself back up. If I can be resilient in high school, I can be resilient in any path I go in life. Recently, I was a set designer for a school play that has made me new friends. By participating in activities that satisfy my interests, I have met more genuine people. Branching out has definitely made my life better.

I moved to Georgia right before I started high school. I barely knew anyone in Georgia besides my aunt, uncle, and two cousins who already lived there. I attended a private school for most of my high school experience, which ended up being a lot more difficult than I thought. I found myself having trouble with school socially and academically. I had trouble making friends because it has a small school population, and everyone had known each other for years. I was also one of the few black people attending the school, so that could also be a factor. I started having a little difficulty keeping up with schoolwork because I was not motivated enough. I knew that I was going to have to get my grades back up, so I tried everything I could to make sure that happened. First and foremost, I decided to go to therapy. I knew what I was dealing with was a battle, and I needed to know how to fight that battle. After two years of going to therapy, I found improvement in school socially and academically. I started to surround myself with people who were nice, genuine, caring, and understanding. Ever since then, my grades started to improve, and I was in a better mindset. In the future, I plan to surround myself with people who are better for my mental health, so in that way I have the motivation to keep going with my future goals and education journey, even if the education or environment is difficult. An example of this would be architecture. I would like to be in the residential field of architecture, building homes for fortunate and unfortunate people. I heard that architecture is one of the hardest fields to learn in STEM, but I was in an architecture class with two of my dearest friends. They made architecture more enjoyable for me simply because they were there, and as a result, my grades in architecture were the best they could ever be all year long. In college, I will attend every class with optimism and build a network of architecture or interior designing. I believe having a network full of people will be the best for me to be strong in my education and career field because no one can do something by themselves. The greatest success stories come from those who have dealt with many troubles, but they thrived from the people that God sent to them. Me believing in myself has helped me be where I am at now. Thanks to me trying my best in school despite the circumstances, I still managed to pick myself back up. If I can be resilient in high school, I can be resilient in any path I go in life. Recently, I was a set designer for a school play that has made me new friends. By participating in activities that satisfy my interests, I have met more genuine people. Branching out has definitely made my life better.