In pursuing computer science, I see the power of technology to bridge divides, solve complex problems, and shape the future. Growing up in Afghanistan, where conflict and ethnic discrimination were constant, I experienced firsthand the transformative potential of education and perseverance. My interest in technology, specifically computer science, stems from these experiences and a desire to create solutions that can positively impact communities like mine, where access to resources and education can be limited. My path toward computer science started early, driven by curiosity and a need to adapt. When I arrived in the U.S. during high school, I quickly realized how pivotal technology is in this country’s educational and professional landscapes. From learning coding through self-study and web development certifications to excelling in AP Computer Science, I embraced every opportunity to build my skills. Computer science represents not just a professional field for me, but a way to create meaningful change. Through coding, I can develop tools and applications that empower others, whether by improving educational access, enhancing communication in marginalized communities, or creating platforms for innovation. In my community, education has been both a tool for survival and progress. As an ethnic Hazara, I know how knowledge and skills can uplift individuals even in the harshest circumstances, and I aspire to design systems that democratize access to technology and learning. My dream is to contribute to global efforts that leverage technology for social good—whether through software that makes education more accessible or developing solutions for underserved communities. What motivates me is not just personal achievement but the responsibility I feel to give back. I am deeply grateful to the U.S., a country that welcomed me and provided opportunities I never had before. I believe that with my determination, combined with the skills I am acquiring, I can honor both my past and my present by working to create a more just, innovative, and connected future. This drive to make an impact has been fueled by my perseverance. It’s a trait honed by adversity—overcoming academic challenges, helping my family navigate life in a new country, and balancing multiple responsibilities. It is this same determination that I will bring to my studies in computer science, as I work toward becoming a software engineer capable of designing the tools that help others persevere and thrive.

My decision to pursue higher education stems from a desire to break the cycle of hardship that has marked much of my life. Growing up in Afghanistan, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of war and discrimination, particularly as a member of the Hazara ethnic minority. These experiences shaped my understanding of education as not only a privilege but also a vital means of empowerment and survival. In Afghanistan, the fear of violence loomed over every aspect of life, particularly in educational settings. I remember stories from my community, like the tragic loss of students in the Kaaj educational center, where many Hazara boys and girls lost their lives while seeking knowledge. These horrifying realities fueled my determination to seize every opportunity available to me. Education is not merely a path to a career; it represents hope for a better future and a chance to uplift my family and community. I aspire to use my education to make a positive impact, both in the United States, where I now live, and back in my homeland. As a first-generation college student, preparing for higher education has been both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. My family’s limited English proficiency meant that I often acted as their translator and advocate, balancing these responsibilities with my academic pursuits. When I immigrated to the U.S. during my freshman year of high school, I had to quickly adapt to a new educational system and meet the A-G requirements necessary for college eligibility. This transition was not easy; it required immense dedication and time management skills. To ensure I stayed on track, I enrolled in zero period classes during my eleventh grade, completing ten classes in one semester. This rigorous schedule tested my perseverance, but I was motivated by my commitment to education and my dreams for the future. I realized that my time in high school was a crucial stepping stone towards achieving my goals. Each class represented an opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills, and I approached them with a determination not to waste any moment. In my senior year, I took further steps to prepare for college by enrolling in AP Computer Science. These courses not only strengthened my academic skills but also provided valuable experience in coding, which is essential for my intended major in computer science. Additionally, I earned a certificate in web development from Free Code Camp, demonstrating my proactive approach to learning. Through these experiences, I developed resilience, determination, and a commitment to making the most of every educational opportunity. The challenges I have faced, from racial discrimination in school to the fear of violence in my home country, have only strengthened my resolve to succeed academically. These experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance and hard work, and they drive my ambition to achieve the highest academic success. I have learned to view obstacles not as barriers but as opportunities for growth. As I look toward the future, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I have received in the U.S. This country feels like a home I never had, a place where I have found acceptance and community. I have witnessed the kindness and humanity of those around me, especially during moments like Ramadan when my volleyball coaches allowed me to take a break to observe my fast. It is this sense of belonging that inspires me to give back and serve the community that has welcomed me. I am committed to studying hard and using my education to make a difference, not only in my life but also in the lives of others.

Success, to me, is the ability to overcome adversity, seize opportunities, and use those experiences to not only improve my life but also make a meaningful impact on others. Having grown up in a war-torn country where my ethnic group, the Hazara, has been targeted by violence and discrimination, I’ve learned that success is not just about personal achievement—it’s about resilience, growth, and service to others. My journey has been one of perseverance, where I’ve had to navigate life-threatening circumstances, racial discrimination, and the challenges of immigrating to a new country. These experiences have forged my determination and shaped my understanding of what it means to succeed. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my long-term goals of becoming a software engineer and contributing to the tech industry. The financial support would allow me to focus more intently on my studies, especially in my chosen field of computer science, which requires significant time and dedication. As the eldest son in my family, I bear additional responsibilities that go beyond academics. I serve as a translator for my parents, help my siblings, and handle other family matters since my parents do not speak English. Balancing these duties with my academic workload has always been challenging, but it has also strengthened my time management and problem-solving skills. However, this scholarship would provide much-needed financial relief, enabling me to allocate more time and energy to my studies without the constant pressure of balancing these competing responsibilities. Additionally, I have worked hard to seize every educational opportunity available to me, such as taking AP Computer Science, earning a web development certification, and tackling a rigorous academic schedule. This scholarship would allow me to continue this proactive approach to my education, giving me the resources to further enhance my technical skills and prepare for a successful career in software engineering. My experiences have taught me the value of education as a tool for empowerment, and this scholarship would provide the support I need to maximize that opportunity. Moreover, receiving this scholarship would not only help me achieve my personal and professional goals but also empower me to give back to the community. Having experienced both hardship and incredible support, especially after immigrating to the U.S., I am committed to contributing to the country and community that have welcomed me. I want to use my skills in technology to serve underrepresented communities, inspire others from similar backgrounds, and give back in ways that help others succeed as well. Success is not just about what I achieve for myself; it is about how I can use my experiences and skills to uplift others. This scholarship will enable me to achieve that vision.

As a recent immigrant and first-generation student, my journey has been one of resilience, adaptability, and hope. Coming to the United States from Afghanistan during my freshman year of high school, I was confronted with a new culture, language, and educational system. The transition was challenging, but it has fundamentally shaped my beliefs about life, hard work, and opportunity. Before immigrating, I lived in a country where ethnic discrimination and violence against my people, the Hazara, were commonplace. In Afghanistan, we faced constant fear—just walking to school could be dangerous. However, this adversity taught me to value education and time. I knew that academic success was my only way to fight against the injustice I had witnessed, so I spent my days developing skills like coding and improving my English, despite the chaos around me. When I arrived in the U.S., I carried that determination with me. Learning English quickly and transitioning out of English Language Development classes within weeks was a major victory, but it wasn’t just about passing tests—it was about proving to myself that I belonged. Balancing my academic goals with family responsibilities, like helping my non-English-speaking parents and caring for my siblings, forced me to grow up quickly. Yet, these challenges only strengthened my resolve to work hard and seize every opportunity. Being a first-generation student in my family also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility. I knew I was not only pursuing my own dreams but also paving the way for my younger siblings and setting an example for them. My belief in the power of perseverance was reinforced by every challenge I faced, whether it was balancing a rigorous academic schedule or helping my family navigate life in a new country. These experiences have taught me that success is not just about talent, but about grit, dedication, and a relentless belief that you can create a better future for yourself. Most importantly, my immigration experience has shown me the value of community and empathy. In the U.S., I found acceptance and support from teachers and friends who understood the difficulties of being an immigrant. This sense of belonging helped me thrive and inspired my belief that, regardless of background, people can come together to support each other in powerful ways. In life, I now believe that opportunity is something you must chase relentlessly, but it also comes from the support of others. As I continue my education in computer science, I aim to give back, not only by succeeding for myself but by using my skills to help others who face similar struggles.

Throughout my life, I’ve encountered significant adversities, ranging from the violent realities of growing up Hazara in Afghanistan to adjusting to a new life in the United States. These challenges, however, have shaped me into a resilient, determined individual who refuses to give up. My experiences have cultivated within me a deep sense of perseverance and responsibility, guiding my growth as I work toward my academic and personal goals. As a member of the Hazara ethnic group in Afghanistan, I was no stranger to racial discrimination and violence. Growing up, I saw how people like me were marginalized, targeted by the Taliban, and deprived of basic rights. The story of Kaaj, where more than a hundred Hazara students were killed while preparing for their national exams, deeply resonates with me. My people were forced to live in constant fear, and as a child, I understood that survival was never guaranteed. In such an environment, I learned the importance of using time wisely. Reading self-help books like The Magic of Thinking Big and Who Moved My Cheese? became my way of coping and growing, shaping my mindset and helping me develop perseverance. That perseverance was tested when I arrived in the U.S. during my freshman year, where I faced the challenge of adjusting to a new culture, language, and education system. Overcoming the language barrier was one of my first major hurdles. I pushed myself to improve my English, achieving a perfect score on the ELPAC test within just two weeks and transitioning from ELD classes to regular ones. I had to adapt quickly, balancing my desire to succeed academically with the responsibilities I carried as the eldest son in my family. My parents don’t speak English, so I became their translator, helping them navigate life in a new country while managing my own schoolwork and taking care of my younger siblings. Despite these pressures, I remained focused on my academic success, taking on extra classes and enrolling in zero period courses during my junior year to meet A-G requirements. I ended up managing ten classes in a semester, a challenge that taught me discipline, time management, and the power of persistence. The adversity I faced back in Afghanistan and the challenges of being an immigrant in the U.S. have both been integral in shaping my character. They’ve driven me to pursue opportunities that will enable me to make a difference for both my community and myself. This determination is what led me to pursue AP Computer Science, ERWC, and a web development certification from Free Code Camp. I realized that knowledge and education are not just a means to personal success, but also a way to help others. I am committed to giving back, whether through serving my family, supporting my friends, or contributing to the society that has accepted me. These experiences have given me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to create change. The obstacles I’ve faced have instilled in me a mindset of perseverance that I apply not only to my academic pursuits but also to my personal life. Each challenge has taught me to never take opportunities for granted and to work hard for the future I envision. As I continue my educational journey, I carry with me the resilience and determination I developed through adversity, always striving to grow and to contribute to the betterment of those around me.