My grandfather’s death in September 2020 is the defining experience that shaped who I am. A common phrase during grief is, “They’re watching over us”. As I imagined him doing so, I asked myself, “If Grandpa were watching me now, would he be proud?”. The answer was no. To provide more context, I spent most of my time isolated at home due to the pandemic. I wasted countless hours on social media, video games, and television. My sleep schedule was horrible, I wasn’t active, and I ate poorly. Those habits resulted in depression, anxiety, and low energy. In hindsight, it made sense why I was stuck, given my destructive habits. His memory inspired me to change. I began experimenting with small steps to improve my life. I started my days with reading and meditating. I studied the science behind self-care. Over the past 5 years, I reinvented myself with new, consistent habits. I now regularly meditate, read, exercise, fixed my sleep schedule, meal-prep to eat healthier, and have significantly reduced screen time by removing social media entirely. I’m proud of the personal evolution I’ve undergone. Self-improvement alone wasn’t enough. Growing up in Southwest Baltimore, I witnessed the lack of opportunities and support that young people needed. Reflecting on the guidance I wish I had received, I felt a responsibility to give back. That’s why I decided to volunteer with Thread, a nonprofit organization that supports Baltimore City public school students at risk of dropping out of high school. As a former student of Baltimore City public schools myself, I relate to their struggles. Now, as a head of a family volunteer, I mentor two young men, maintaining regular contact to provide guidance, help them navigate obstacles, and attend events together. Whether it’s offering guidance or simply showing up, I aim to be a consistent presence in their lives. I consider it a privilege to have made it this far, but I recognize that others do not have the same opportunities and resources that I have had. That’s why I believe that if we are in a position to give back, regardless of how small the gesture, it is our responsibility to do so. We don’t need wealth to make a meaningful impact. Listening, helping, and being there can make all the difference. These experiences shaped my outlook. I may not be able to change the world overnight, but if I improve someone’s day or life or give them hope for the future, then I’m fulfilling my purpose. That’s my mindset with everybody I encounter. My goals in life are to reach my full potential and to help others achieve theirs. Although we may not live forever, we leave behind a lasting legacy when we uplift others, creating a chain reaction of kindness, empowerment, and inspiration that lasts beyond us. The Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship would ease the financial burden of graduate school, enabling me to dedicate more time to my studies and community service. I’m grateful to Sloane Stephens for creating this opportunity. Her commitment to uplifting others inspires me, and I hope to make a similar impact on my community, as Sloane has with hers. Thank you for considering my application and investing in students like me.

Every individual has their strengths and weaknesses. I often noticed in school that students were either better at reading and writing or math, but struggled with the other subject. I was the student who excelled in math. Math always came naturally to me. While I struggled to stay focused in English class and found writing essays intimidating, math felt clear and logical. Math was my domain. Problem-solving, numbers, and formulas just made sense. I consistently ranked at the top of my math classes, and my peers often turned to me for help when they got stuck. Math gave me confidence when I doubted myself. In English class, I sometimes felt like I wasn’t as intelligent as my peers. But in math, I felt capable and accomplished. This taught me that everybody has their strengths, and it’s okay to work harder in areas of weakness. Beyond my own experience, I also value the importance of math for all students. Students often complain about math, wondering if they will apply it in the real world later. They usually say, “When will I ever use this in real life?”. To me, math is more about students' understanding and applying concepts than about its practical use. Math is crucial to healthy brain development in young people, enhancing their problem-solving, logical reasoning, creativity, memory, perseverance, critical thinking, and many other skills. These skills shape how we think and are helpful in all aspects of life. Lastly, one cannot emphasize enough the impact of math in society, technology, science, business, economics, etc. Math has a wide range of applications, from daily decision-making to scientific research and breakthroughs. Math is everywhere. I love math because it has always been my strength and source of confidence in the classroom, its ability to promote healthy brain functions in young students, and its power to change the world. The Learner Math Love Scholarship would ease the financial burden of graduate school, enabling me to dedicate more time to my studies. I am grateful to Learner for supporting students. I’m inspired and hope to offer scholarships to students one day, paying it forward to students who share the same love for math. Thank you for considering my application, investing in students like me who love math, and for highlighting math’s significant impact on our world.

The first time I experienced the loss of a loved one was when my grandfather passed away in 2020. I didn’t know how to cope. A common phrase during grief is, “They’re watching over us.” I asked myself, “If Grandpa were watching me now, would he be proud?” The honest answer was no. At the time, I was in my second year of community college, isolated at home due to the pandemic. My habits were destructive. I spent hours scrolling through social media, watching television, and playing video games. I went to bed late, skipped meals, avoided exercise, and rarely went outside. These choices fueled depression, anxiety, and constant procrastination in my studies. I felt drained, unmotivated, and lost. Looking back, it’s clear that my lack of healthy habits directly affected my mental and emotional health. My grandfather’s memory became the catalyst for change. I started small by replacing screen time with reading and meditation in the mornings. Over time, I adopted healthier habits: going to the gym, eating healthier, getting 7–8 hours of sleep, waking up earlier, journaling, and reducing overall screen time. I even deleted all my social media accounts to minimize distractions. What made these habits sustainable was not just being told what to do, but learning why. Through self-improvement books and educational videos, I learned the science behind wellness: how sleep restores the brain, how meditation reduces stress, and how diet and exercise influence energy and mood. Understanding the “why” gave me deeper motivation to stay committed. Prioritizing my health transformed my life. I became happier, more focused, and more disciplined. My grades improved, and eventually I transferred to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where I graduated Magna Cum Laude. More importantly, I gained a sense of purpose that I lacked during my lowest moments. Wellness is now at the core of how I live, not something I push aside when life gets busy. This experience taught me that caring for myself is not selfish, but is foundational. By maintaining balance in my mental, emotional, and physical health, I can better show up for my studies, my career, and my community. Today, I continue to prioritize wellness by journaling, meditating, exercising, and attending therapy. These practices ground me, especially during times of stress. Looking forward, I am applying this mindset to my academic and professional journey. Initially, I never planned on pursuing graduate school, but reframing my perspective showed me that everything worthwhile requires resilience and intention. Now, I am preparing to pursue a master’s degree in data science at the University of Maryland, College Park. The same discipline and balance I built through prioritizing my health will help me succeed in this next chapter. Most importantly, I know my grandfather would be proud—not just because of academic achievements, but because I chose to honor my health and live with intention. His memory reminds me that success is not only measured in accomplishments, but also in how well we take care of ourselves along the way.

Growing up in Southwest Baltimore, I witnessed firsthand how systemic inequality impacts families and communities. From an early age, I understood that opportunities are not equally given, but I also came to believe in the power of education to bridge that gap. I’m a first-generation college graduate. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. This fall, I’ll continue my education by pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science at the University of Maryland, College Park. My interest in data science came during an undergraduate course where I worked on a project analyzing and visualizing the quality of life for the youth of Baltimore City and Baltimore County. The disparities revealed in that data hit close to home and opened my eyes to how data can tell powerful stories that can expose inequality, highlight progress, and inspire change. That experience confirmed my desire to use data not just for analysis, but as a tool for advocacy. While data science is most prominent in business, I’m most passionate about applying it in healthcare, government, education, and nonprofit sectors where data can directly improve lives. Whether it's optimizing healthcare resource distribution or shaping policies to support underserved students, I want to contribute to solutions that promote equity and well-being. Outside the classroom, I’m committed to giving back. I volunteer with Thread, a Baltimore-based nonprofit that connects volunteers with Baltimore City public school students at risk of dropping out. Thread regularly hosts events, maintains contact with all volunteers and young people, and provides resources and workshops to young people in need. As a Head of Family volunteer, I mentor two young men, offering consistent guidance and support. Whether we’re attending events, planning outings, or just checking in, I aim to be a reliable, caring presence in their lives. This work has deepened my belief that even small acts like showing up, listening, and encouraging can have a meaningful impact. Making a difference doesn’t require wealth, but starts with a mindset of service and empathy. My goal is to improve the lives of others both through my career and through continued community involvement. I plan to use data to address social issues and uplift those in underserved communities, while also mentoring and supporting the next generation, just as others have done for me. As someone solely responsible for funding my graduate education due to limited family resources, receiving the Charlene K. The Howard Chogo Scholarship would ease my financial burden, allowing me to dedicate more time to both my studies and community service. I’m grateful to The Beta Mu Omega Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc. for providing this scholarship in honor of Miss Charlene. I’m inspired and hope to offer scholarships to students one day, paying it forward. I’m also honored to apply for a scholarship that reflects the values of a leader who devoted her life to education and mentorship. I hope to carry her legacy forward by using education to transform not only my life, but the lives of those I serve. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students who are committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Growing up in Baltimore, I witnessed how a lack of access to quality healthcare and resources affects underserved communities. This experience shaped my passion for using data to improve lives. I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and have been accepted into a master’s program in Data Science at the University of Maryland, College Park for the upcoming Fall 2025 semester. My goal is to specialize in healthcare data analysis to utilize data to optimize healthcare systems, enhance patient outcomes, and mitigate healthcare disparities. Pursuing this master’s degree is a crucial step toward my career goal of becoming a healthcare data scientist. I plan to collaborate with hospitals and public health organizations to identify care gaps, optimize resource allocation, and develop predictive models that inform effective care delivery. In the long term, I aspire to lead data-driven initiatives that ensure equitable access to healthcare, particularly in marginalized communities like the one in which I grew up. Through graduate studies, I will gain advanced knowledge in machine learning, data visualization, and big data technologies. While I am committed to my education, financing it is a significant challenge. As a first-generation college graduate from a low-income background, I have limited family resources to support my graduate studies. I am solely responsible for funding my graduate studies and have to dedicate a considerable amount of my time to finding and applying for scholarships. Although this pursuit of scholarships is humbling due to the number of rejections, I also understand that I am not entitled to any scholarship, and all applicants are just as deserving as I am. Working full-time and applying to scholarships while attending graduate school will be demanding. The OMC Graduate Scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of tuition, allowing me to dedicate myself fully to my studies. Receiving this scholarship would be transformative. It would allow me to focus on coursework rather than worrying about how to cover tuition. Most importantly, it would bring me one step closer to making a meaningful impact in healthcare by enabling me to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to bridge the gap between data and patient care. By supporting my education, you are also investing in the healthier, more equitable future I hope to help build. I am deeply grateful for your consideration. The OMC Graduate Scholarship would not only alleviate financial stress but also empower me to stay focused on my mission, which is to utilize data science to enhance healthcare outcomes for vulnerable populations. I am grateful for organizations like the Online Masters Colleges for helping students like me pursue higher education and contribute to meaningful change. Thank you.

Growing up in Southwest Baltimore, I witnessed the challenges of living in a low-income community. My peers faced barriers to education and opportunity, which made me realize the importance of capitalizing on any given opportunity. I recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with a GPA of 3.8 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) with a Bachelor’s of Science in Information Systems. As a first-generation student, this achievement was more than just a degree; it was a step toward my future, and that of others like me. I hope to serve as a role model and inspiration for others to pursue higher education. This fall, I will be attending the University of Maryland, College Park, to pursue a Master’s of Science in Data Science. I plan to specialize in healthcare data, enabling me to help identify and address critical issues within our healthcare system. I aim to utilize data to enhance outcomes for underserved communities and contribute to a more equitable and efficient healthcare system. In addition to my academic goals, I’m also passionate about giving back to the community. I currently volunteer with a nonprofit organization called Thread, which connects volunteers with Baltimore City public school students who were at risk of dropping out. Thread regularly hosts events, maintains contact with all volunteers and young people, and provides resources and workshops to young people in need. As the head of a family volunteer, I mentor two young men and maintain regular contact, providing guidance, helping them navigate obstacles, and attending events together, either hosted by Thread or planned by me. Whether it’s offering guidance or simply showing up when it matters, I aim to be a consistent source of support in their lives. I consider it a privilege to have made it this far, but I recognize that others do not have the same opportunities and resources that I have had. That’s why I believe that if we are in a position to give back, regardless of how small the gesture, it is our responsibility to do so. We don’t need wealth to make a meaningful impact. Listening, helping, and being there can make all the difference. I know I can’t change the world overnight, but if I can help make someone’s day or life a little better, then I’m fulfilling my purpose. That’s my mindset with everybody I encounter. My plan to make a positive impact on the world is to improve the lives of anyone I encounter through volunteering, providing financial support, fostering meaningful connections, offering mentorship, and helping others reach their full potential. I believe the two greatest goals in life are to reach my highest potential and to help others achieve theirs. Although we may not live forever, we leave behind a lasting legacy when we uplift others, creating a chain reaction of kindness, empowerment, and inspiration that lasts for generations. The ADP Scholarship would ease the financial burden of graduate school, enabling me to dedicate more time to my studies and community service. I am grateful to the Pruitt Family for supporting low-income graduate students. I’m inspired and hope to offer scholarships to students one day, paying it forward. Thank you for considering my application and investing in students like me.

Being a first-generation college student was not easy. With no roadmap to follow, I had to navigate the application process, financial aid, and academic expectations on my own. There weren’t many role models in my family to turn to. Despite these difficulties, I developed a mindset throughout this journey that was my primary motivator. I began to deeply appreciate the value of education and why I needed to pursue a college education. I attend college not just for myself, but for those who couldn’t; for my grandparents, who experienced the Vietnam War, and for my parents, who immigrated to the United States in their 30s, didn't know English, and had to care for two toddlers. Apart from my family, other people in this world also don’t have the opportunity to attend college. This thinking made me realize how fortunate I was, and that any opportunity given should be taken seriously. I stand on the shoulders of my family and all those who came before me. My college degree allows me to be a role model for my family and future children, and motivates them to pursue higher education. I’ll also be able to help them and ensure that their transition to college is smoother than mine was, and provide advice. I’m pursuing my Master of Science in Data Science at the University of Maryland. Although data science is most prominent in the technology, finance, and retail industries, my interests lie in the healthcare sector. The education I receive from the program will allow me to contribute to healthcare, enabling me to more effectively anticipate and respond to its greatest areas of need, which will bring me personal fulfillment and align with my goals. I am passionate about contributing to society and helping others, as I believe in serving the greater good rather than myself. I understand how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to attend college and work in the STEM field. When we’re in a position to give back, we should do so in any way we can. My way of giving back to the community and showing gratitude for all that I have been blessed with is through donations, volunteering, and mentorship. I currently volunteer with an organization called Thread, which assigns volunteers to young people in Baltimore City who were at risk of dropping out of high school. Thread provides consistent communication and planned community-wide events to foster connections within the community. I find the most fulfillment in this line of work to be passing on my knowledge and providing mentorship. Although I may not be able to change a young person’s life overnight, I know that I’m satisfied if I can make their life better than it was before. That's what makes me happy, and that's my mindset with anyone I meet in life. The Damodhar Masram Excellence Scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of graduate school, allowing me to dedicate more time to my studies. I am grateful to organizations like Sociologix LLC for providing scholarships to first-generation STEM students in need. I’m inspired and hope to offer scholarships to students one day, paying it forward. Honoring the vision behind this scholarship means more than just receiving financial aid, it also means living out its values through a commitment to education, innovation, and community support. I am determined to make a lasting impact in data science, especially in healthcare, and to uplift others the way I’ve been uplifted. I thank Sociologix LLC for considering my application and for investing in the next generation.