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.