From a young age, I learned to navigate challenges with a quiet determination. My early childhood was marked by the profound loss of my mother when I was eight, an event that instantly reshaped my world. As I grew older, I found solace and a sense of belonging in the endless possibilities of technology. Whether it was helping my grandmother with a simple brightness setting or exploring new worlds in life simulation games, the digital realm offered a space where my curiosity was always welcomed. This early connection sparked a foundational interest that, years later, would define my academic path. My trajectory truly began in an 7th-grade Gateway to Technology class, where I was first introduced to the power of coding. The idea that I could build and create the very tools that had offered me so much comfort was an exhilarating revelation. It ignited within me a deep confidence that I could shape the tools that define our modern lives. However, my passion was strong, but like many, I faced an unforeseen challenge with the onset of the pandemic. The complexities of that period, coupled with a string of personal losses, led to a time of deep struggle. My grades suffered, and my presence in the classroom dwindled as I grappled with an overwhelming depression. It was a time that tested my resolve, but it ultimately strengthened my commitment to overcome adversity and reclaim my academic journey. Today, I stand as a testament to that unwavering resilience. At 19, I am an African American woman passionately pursuing Information Technology with a focus on software development. My current collegiate record reflects a 3.71 GPA, having earned a place on the Dean's List for both the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters my first year. Beyond my coursework, I’ve committed myself to working over 40 hours a week even while taking summer classes. This dedication has allowed me to accumulate the credits of a junior as I enter my sophomore year, putting me on track to graduate early from my five-year program. However, my path is uniquely challenging. As a self-supporting student, I face significant financial barriers. My father has been in debt and, devastatingly, homeless since last August. This reality means that securing stable housing is not just a comfort, but a fundamental necessity for my continued academic success. As a Pell Grant eligible student, I rely entirely on financial aid and scholarships to secure the foundation upon which my education is built. Receiving this scholarship would be more than just financial assistance; it would be an investment in a future where I can leverage technology to create solutions and inspire others. My journey has been one of resilience and self-reliance, and with your support, I am confident I will not only achieve my academic and professional goals but also contribute meaningfully to the world. By using my story to uplift the next generation of minority students in STEAM, I hope to demonstrate the power of kindness and help level the playing field for those who come after me, just as Sloane Stephens has done through her foundation.

Loving yourself and the world isn't easy when you're so used to everything being taken away. Life became unpredictable after my mom passed away. There were days I had to go without eating, clothes and gadgets I’d never be able to afford anymore, and even times when I was homeless. Yet, through life's twists and turns, I discovered an unwavering strength. These hardships shape who we are. They forge resilience and ignite a desire to make a positive impact. This tenacity now fuels my calling for information technology. The tech industry lacks diversity, with Black women making up only 3%. Witnessing this disparity ignited a devotion in my soul to bridge the gap and I'm determined to inspire young Black girls to join me on this mission. Being awarded your scholarship will not only help fuel my education at the University of Cincinnati but empower me to turn this passion into action by fulfilling my dreams of giving back to the community. My journey to becoming a role model in tech began with overcoming the trials and tribulations of life and discovering my resilience. I no longer am afraid to face the unknown. First, it was high school, and now it's college. As a recent graduate from Hughes STEM High School, I have over three years of experience in the tech world. There I was a part of the IT Pathway as well as the Early UC IT Program and that’s where I found my love for technology. After I graduate from college, I plan on eventually starting my own tech company to not only change the world but inspire little black girls to join the IT industry as well. I want to start a program to teach them about IT and give resources, scholarships, internship opportunities, and more. I know the process won't be easy, but the things that hurt me only prepared me to be strong enough to take on this role. To my Mommy, Grandmother, Nana, Uncle, and all my angels who believed in me: I will graduate from college. Although my family has had college graduates with associate degrees, nobody has ever graduated with a bachelor's degree or higher, and it’s time I achieve even greater for us. Burdened by student loan debt himself, my dad is unable to contribute to my education and I don’t have any other family members who could help. As the sole financial supporter for my college journey, any scholarship would significantly alleviate this burden and allow me to fully focus on my studies at the University of Cincinnati. Whether I’m awarded your scholarship or not, I genuinely appreciate you taking the time out of your day to read my application and learn a little about my story. If you do find me worthy of your scholarship I promise you won't regret investing in my future. The world will know the name Deshyah Anderson.