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Erika Williams

675

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

I am a passionate individual who strives to make a positive impact on the world. With a strong interest in renewable energy and sustainability, I am pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering and Renewable Energy. Alongside my academic goals, I am also dedicated to maintaining a healthy balance between my studies, personal life, and community involvement. As a former Girl Scout of 12 years, I developed a love for community service and continue to volunteer with organizations like Flint River Fresh to promote access to healthy food and sustainable practices in South Georgia.

Education

Kennesaw State University

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2027
  • Majors:
    • Mechanical Engineering

Albany Technical College

Trade School
2018 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Energy Systems Technologies/Technicians
    • Energy Systems Engineering

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Sustainability Studies
    • Energy Systems Engineering
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Mechanical or Industrial Engineering

    • Dream career goals:

      My career goal is to own a renewable energy company, advance the availability, affordability, and efficiency of renewable energy systems, making them more accessible to a greater number of people.

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Girl Scouts — Ambassador
        2010 – 2022

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Entrepreneurship

      Barbara J. DeVaney Memorial Scholarship Fund
      As a woman of color with a resolute passion for renewable energy, I stand at the intersection of opportunity and adversity, ready to illuminate the path towards a brighter and sustainable future. The legacy of Barbara J. DeVaney resonates deeply with my journey, as I embrace the challenges faced by women like me in pursuing a career in STEM and the promise of a better life through renewable energy. This scholarship serves as a beacon of hope, recognition, and empowerment for women of color who seek to make a profound impact in renewable energy fields and uplift their communities. From an early age, my fascination with the wonders of science and technology ignited a flame of curiosity within me. Growing up in a community where access to STEM education was limited, I faced the challenge of finding resources to nurture my passion. Despite the hurdles, I immersed myself in self-guided learning, absorbing knowledge like a sponge, and participating in local renewable energy initiatives. The scholarship's commitment to supporting women speaks directly to my experience, fueling my determination to overcome barriers and create opportunities for myself and others. For me, the allure of renewable energy lies in its boundless potential to address global challenges and improve lives. My passion for clean energy has been nurtured by the realization that innovative solutions can drive progress in critical areas, such as providing clean, inexpensive electricity to low-income communities. With each renewable energy project developed and each solar panel installed, I am captivated by the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of those in underserved areas. As a recipient of the Barbara J. DeVaney Scholarship, I envision a transformative future for myself and my community. The financial support will not only alleviate the burden the educational expenses that come with pursuing a mechanical engineering degree, but also empower me to focus on my studies and take advantage of unique learning opportunities in renewable energy. With this scholarship, I can not only pay for nearly all 4 years of college, but participate in specialized courses, attend industry conferences, engage in internships confidently, and attain proffessional attire. All of these things help me to build my skills and expand my network in the world of renewable energy. In addition to academic growth, I plan to utilize this scholarship to advance my career goals and make a lasting impact on my community. Armed with knowledge, experience, and determination, I aspire to establish my renewable energy company, focused on providing clean and inexpensive electricity to low-income areas. By combining my technical expertise with a deep understanding of the needs of underserved communities, I aim to bridge the gap in access to clean energy and contribute to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, the Barbara J. DeVaney Scholarship is more than just financial support; it is a symbol of recognition and empowerment for women of color like me, striving to make a lasting impact in renewable energy fields. With gratitude and a heart full of determination, I stand ready to embrace the opportunities that this scholarship presents, using it as a stepping stone to reach greater heights in my academic and professional journey. Barbara J. DeVaney and the scholarship commitee illuminate a future where diversity is celebrated, barriers are shattered, and single mothers, widows, immigrants, women of color, first-generation college students, survivors of abuse and women of color stand united.
      Learner Education Women in Mathematics Scholarship
      In the ever-evolving landscape of the information era, where technology intertwines with every aspect of our lives, I find myself drawn to the world of math with an unyielding passion. Guided by the words of the trailblazing Sally Ride, I aspire to be remembered as someone who fearlessly pursued her dreams and took risks to achieve her goals. The Learner Women in Mathematics Scholarship represents an opportunity for me to contribute to the future of women in STEM and fulfill my vision of making a meaningful impact on the world through math and technology. Math serves as the universal language that transcends borders and cultures, enabling us to decipher the mysteries of the universe and drive innovation. The boundless potential of math in technology and its impact on shaping the world we live in has fueled my ambition to be a part of this transformative field. In the realm of technology, where problems are becoming increasingly intricate, the presence of women is indispensable. I firmly believe that gender diversity brings a multitude of perspectives that can lead to innovative and comprehensive solutions. As a woman entering the math field, I am determined to shatter barriers and champion inclusivity, providing a platform for overlooked voices to be heard. Throughout my academic journey, certain principles in math have left a lasting mark on my understanding of the world. The elegance of calculus has taught me the art of abstraction, enabling me to tackle complex problems with creative and analytical approaches. Statistics has revealed the power of data, shaping my perception of empirical evidence and its significance in driving informed decisions. Moreover, algebra has imparted the invaluable lesson of resilience, reminding me that every problem has a solution, even when it gets discouraging . These principles have not only nurtured my love for math but have also instilled in me a sense of determination and adaptability that I carry with me in every aspect of life. With the Learner Women in Mathematics Scholarship, I see a unique opportunity to turn my passion for math into a force for change. As I step into the realm of higher education, this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden but also signify an investment in empowering women in STEM. With each step of my academic journey, I pledge to embrace every challenge with the fearlessness and resilience that define my character. As I envision my future, I see myself on the forefront of innovative research and technological advancements. With the power of math as my compass, I aspire to be at the vanguard of creating sustainable solutions for the world's most pressing challenges. From combating climate change to revolutionizing healthcare and advancing artificial intelligence, I will fearlessly pursue my goals, driven by my commitment to a better and more equitable future. In conclusion, the Learner Women in Mathematics Scholarship embodies the essence of my aspirations and the transformative power of math in the information era. I am compelled to break down barriers and champion diversity in STEM, recognizing the pivotal role that women play in shaping our future. This scholarship represents more than just a financial opportunity; it is a catalyst for change, a symbol of empowerment, and an endorsement of my unwavering dedication to a career in math and technology. I am deeply grateful for your consideration, and I assure you that I will be relentless in my pursuit of making a lasting impact on the world through mathematics and the principles that inspire us to dream big and take risks.
      Learner Calculus Scholarship
      Calculus, the mighty giant of mathematics, has beckoned me with both fear and fascination. I have come to realize that behind the veil of its complexity lies the key to unlocking boundless opportunities and transformative innovations. Choosing me for this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial strain on my educational journey but also unleash a passionate and determined individual ready to leave a lasting mark in the world of mechanical engineering and renewable energy. The world of STEM offers limitless possibilities, and I stand ready to seize every chance to make a difference. Calculus has emerged as a formidable ally, empowering me to embrace the challenges that come my way. As I work complex equations and intricate problems, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment, knowing that these skills will fuel my journey as a trailblazer in the renewable energy industry. Beyond its practical applications, calculus has also forged a resilient spirit within me. Each problem I solve unlocks a sense of accomplishment that propels me forward, eager to challenge myself. These skills have instilled in me the determination to overcome any obstacle, making me an asset in the dynamic world of STEM. The transformative applications of calculus resonate deeply with my aspirations to create a sustainable future. As a visionary in mechanical engineering, I dream of harnessing the potential of solar energy to power communities and curb our reliance on fossil fuels. Through calculus-driven analyses, I seek to design energy-efficient systems that will light the path towards a greener and cleaner world. I envision myself contributing to the creation of sustainable infrastructure that empowers communities and enhances their quality of life. I will bridge the gap between theory and practice, inspire innovation, advocating for policies that promote renewable energy adoption and environmental consciousness. The financial burden of pursuing higher education can be daunting, but this scholarship offers more than just financial assistance; it offers the validation and recognition of my passion and potential. Being selected for this scholarship would signify that my journey in STEM matters, that my aspirations to make a positive impact resonate with those who believe in the power of education. In conclusion, the significance of calculus in the STEM field lies not only in its applications but in its ability to cultivate resilience, passion, and determination. This scholarship represents an opportunity to elevate my potential and amplify my commitment to the world of renewable energy engineering. Choosing me would be choosing a dedicated and enthusiastic individual ready to embrace every challenge that comes my way. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship; your belief in my potential would be the catalyst for change and the fuel that propels me towards making a lasting impact on the world.
      Henry Bynum, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
      As a woman of color pursuing a career in mechanical engineering with a focus on renewable energy, I have faced my fair share of adversity. However, my determination, strong work ethic, and unwavering passion for creating a sustainable future have enabled me to overcome these challenges and set my sights on making a positive impact on my community, South Georgia. Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered the obstacle of being one of the few black women in my field. Despite this, I have not allowed these circumstances to deter me. Instead, I have used this experience as motivation to work even harder and prove that I belong in this male-dominated field. Through dedication and perseverance, I have excelled in my coursework and earned the respect of my peers and professors. One of the greatest challenges I faced was during my recent internship in a government office, where I was one of only two black women and three black individuals in the entire office of about 25 people. Initially, I felt the weight of representing not only myself but also my community. I immersed myself in my assignments, sought mentorship from supportive colleagues, and used each day as an opportunity to learn and grow. With time, I became more confident in my abilities and contributions. This experience taught me the value of resilience and self-belief, and I now carry these lessons with me as I strive to uplift my community in the future. Looking ahead, I am determined to use my education and skills to create a positive impact on South Georgia and the world at large. I am deeply committed to bringing affordable and accessible clean energy solutions to underserved communities. With a focus on renewable energy, I believe we can not only mitigate the effects of climate change but also create opportunities for economic growth and development in marginalized areas. Furthermore, I plan to actively participate in community service and disaster relief efforts. I recognize the importance of giving back to the community that has supported and encouraged me throughout my journey. By volunteering and engaging in meaningful projects, I hope to inspire others and demonstrate the power of collective action in making a difference. I aspire to use my platform to advocate for diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. I aim to mentor and support young women of color who may face similar challenges to those I have encountered. By encouraging diversity in these fields, we can foster innovative solutions and address the diverse needs of our global community. In conclusion, my journey as a woman of color in STEM has been shaped by adversity, determination, and the unwavering support of my community. Overcoming challenges has strengthened my resolve to create a sustainable future and uplift those around me. Through my commitment to renewable energy and community service, I aim to contribute positively to my community and inspire future generations to dream big and strive for their goals. With gratitude and a deep sense of purpose, I am excited to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and make a lasting impact on the world.
      NE1 NE-Dream Scholarship
      As a young woman, I have always been driven to make a positive impact on the world. From a young age, I joined the Girl Scouts and dedicated 12 years to the organization, learning important values like leadership, community involvement, and environmental stewardship. Through my experiences in the Girl Scouts, I discovered my passion for renewable energy and the role it plays in promoting sustainability and mitigating climate change. My dream is to own a solar field and provide clean, sustainable energy to my local community in South Georgia. After participating in a summer solar camp at Albany State University in 2016, I began researching more about renewable energy technologies and approaches used to generate clean energy. After graduating high school in May of 2022, I continued my studies in Renewable Energy through dual-enrollment and will graduate in December of 2023 from Albany Technical College. As I pursue my degree in mechanical engineering with a focus on renewable energy, I am committed to making a positive impact on my local and global communities. Through my involvement with Flint River Fresh, a local organization in Albany, Georgia that works towards increasing access to healthy food and supporting people from various backgrounds, I have developed valuable life skills and made a positive impact in my community by promoting sustainable practices. In the next five years, I plan to continue my work in renewable energy, focusing on developing sustainable energy solutions and contributing to organizations and groups making a positive impact. I aim to work with utility companies, solar panel manufacturers, and organizations working towards a cleaner and safer tomorrow. By collaborating with these organizations, I will develop and implement renewable energy solutions that will have a significant impact worldwide. I also plan to use my knowledge and experience to educate and inform others about the benefits of renewable energy and the importance of sustainability, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond my own personal achievements and making a broader impact. My passion for renewable energy and sustainability stems from my desire to create a better, cleaner, and more sustainable future for everyone. Climate change is affecting millions of people around the world, from the effects on personal health and mental health, to access to healthy food, clean water, and displacement of communities. By working towards renewable energy solutions, I am not only fulfilling my dreams but also contributing to a positive environmental impact on my local and global communities. I am excited to continue my journey towards becoming a business owner and leader in clean energy, and making a difference in the world.
      FLIK Hospitality Group’s Entrepreneurial Council Scholarship
      As a mechanical engineering student with a passion for renewable energy and sustainability, I am committed to creating a positive environmental impact on both my local and global communities. In the next five years, I plan to contribute to the advancement of sustainable technology by using my skills and knowledge to develop and implement renewable energy solutions. Through my involvement with organizations such as Flint River Fresh in Albany, Georgia, I have seen firsthand how access to healthy food and clean water can be impacted by climate change. By continuing to volunteer with these organizations, I aim to promote sustainable practices and increase awareness of the need for renewable energy solutions. I plan to achieve this by pursuing internships and co-op opportunities with companies and organizations working towards a cleaner and safer tomorrow. By collaborating with these organizations, I will develop and implement renewable energy solutions that will have a significant impact worldwide. I aim to advance the availability, affordability, and efficiency of renewable energy systems, making them more accessible to a greater number of people. In the realm of technology, I am interested in exploring the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in renewable energy systems. By leveraging these technologies, I believe we can optimize the efficiency of renewable energy systems and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Another way in which I hope to make a positive environmental impact is through my involvement in the hospitality industry. By promoting sustainable practices in the hospitality industry, I believe we can reduce our carbon footprint and minimize the negative impact on the environment. I hope to work with hotels and restaurants to implement sustainable practices, such as using local and organic ingredients, reducing food waste, and implementing energy-saving measures. In the realm of finance, I believe that sustainable investing can play a crucial role in promoting renewable energy solutions. By working with financial institutions to promote sustainable investments, we can encourage the growth of renewable energy industries and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy system. Ultimately, my goal is to create a positive environmental impact on both my local and global communities by promoting sustainable practices and working towards a cleaner and safer tomorrow. Through my involvement in organizations focused on alternative energy and sustainability, as well as pursuing a career in renewable energy, I hope to inspire others to join me in this mission. By sharing my knowledge and experience, I aim to educate and inform others about the benefits of renewable energy and the importance of sustainability, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond my own personal achievements.
      Ward AEC Scholarship
      My background has been shaped by a variety of experiences that have led me to pursue a career in the engineering industry with a focus on renewable energy. As a child, I was always fascinated by how things worked and loved to take things apart and put them back together. This curiosity continued throughout my teenage years, when I spent much of my free time tinkering with cars and engines, always eager to learn more about the inner workings of mechanical systems. When it came time to choose a career path, I knew that I wanted to study engineering. My interest in renewable energy and engineering began to take shape during high school when I attended a summer solar camp at Albany State University. I was amazed by the potential of solar energy to provide clean, sustainable power, and was drawn to the challenge of finding new ways to harness and store this energy. I pursued my interest in renewable energy by enrolling in a Renewable Energy diploma program through dual-enrollment while in high school. After graduating, I continued my studies at Albany Technical College, where I will receive my diploma in December of 2023. Along the way, I have also gained experience working as a volunteer with Flint River Fresh, a local organization that works to increase access to healthy food and promote sustainable practices in South Georgia. My goal is to use my knowledge and experience in mechanical engineering to develop sustainable energy solutions that will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and help combat climate change. I am particularly interested in exploring new technologies and approaches that can make renewable energy systems more efficient, affordable, and accessible to people around the world. One of my long-term aspirations is to own a solar field that will provide clean, sustainable energy to my community. I hope to work with utility companies, solar panel manufacturers, and other organizations that are committed to making a positive impact on the environment. I believe that by collaborating with these groups, I can help develop renewable energy solutions that will have a significant impact on the world. My experiences in the A/E/C industry have already taught me the importance of collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. I understand that developing sustainable energy solutions will require a team effort and that success will depend on our ability to work together towards a common goal. In conclusion, my background in mechanical engineering, coupled with my passion for renewable energy and my dedication to making a positive impact on the world, has led me to pursue a career in the engineering industry. I am excited to continue my studies and work towards my goal of developing sustainable energy solutions that will have a positive impact on people and the planet.
      CATALYSTS Scholarship
      Climate change is one of the most significant challenges we face as a global community. Its effects are far-reaching and affect millions of people worldwide. The negative impacts of climate change on personal health, mental health, access to healthy food and clean water, and displacement of communities cannot be overstated. I am passionate about addressing this important social issue, I am committed to making a positive impact on the world by promoting sustainable practices and educating others about the dangers of climate change. As an aspiring mechanical engineer and student, I am determined to gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of engineering, apply them to develop sustainable energy solutions and contribute to organizations and groups making a positive impact. I am deeply concerned about the social issue of climate change and the devastating effects it has on millions of people around the world. Climate change is exacerbating existing social inequalities and disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations around the world. Growing up, I witnessed the effects of climate change on my community, from hurricanes to droughts. These events have made me acutely aware of the devastating effects of climate change on the lives and livelihoods of people worldwide. This awareness has driven me to take action and make a positive impact on the world One of my long-term aspirations includes owning a solar field and providing clean, sustainable energy to my community, South Georgia. My interest in solar energy began in 2016 when I participated in a summer solar camp at Albany State University. Since then, I have been researching more about renewable energy technologies and approaches used to generate clean energy. After graduating high school in May of 2022, I continued finishing my Renewable Energy diploma that I began through dual enrollment. I am on pace to graduate in December of 2023 from Albany Technical College. I am becoming more involved in organizations with a focus on alternative energy and making a positive impact on local communities. I have been volunteering with Flint River Fresh in Albany, Georgia, where we grow fruits and vegetables, do community giveaways, provide schools with locally-grown produce, supporting people from various backgrounds. and work towards increasing access to healthy food, Through these experiences, I hope to develop life skills and make an impact in South Georgia by promoting sustainable practices. I aim to advance the availability, affordability, and efficiency of renewable energy systems, making them more accessible to a greater number of people. By sharing my knowledge and experience, I will educate and inform others about the benefits of renewable energy and the importance of sustainability. This can create a ripple effect that extends beyond my personal achievements and make a broader impact. In conclusion, climate change is a pressing social issue that affects millions of people worldwide. As a young person passionate about addressing this issue, I am committed to making a positive impact on the world by promoting sustainable practices and educating others about the dangers of climate change. Through my advocacy for sustainable practices, promotion of sustainable transportation practices, support of legislation promoting sustainability, and work with organizations that focus on sustainability at a global level, I believe that I can contribute to a better, cleaner, and more sustainable future for everyone.
      Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
      As an aspiring mechanical engineer and student, my goal is to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of engineering, and apply them to the development of sustainable energy solutions. One of my long-term aspirations is to own a solar field and provide clean, sustainable energy to my community in South Georgia. My fascination with solar energy began in 2016 when I participated in a summer solar camp at Albany State University. Since then, I have been exploring renewable energy technologies and approaches used to generate clean energy. After graduating high school in May of 2022, I continued to pursue my Renewable Energy diploma that I began through dual-enrollment. I am on track to graduate from Albany Technical College in December of 2023. Apart from my academic pursuits, I also have several personal goals that I hope to achieve as I progress towards becoming a business owner and leader in clean energy. One of these goals is to become more involved in organizations focused on alternative energy and making a positive impact in local communities. I have been volunteering with Flint River Fresh in Albany, Georgia, where we grow fruits and vegetables, volunteer, increase access to healthy food and support people from diverse backgrounds. Through these experiences, I aim to develop life skills and make a meaningful impact in South Georgia by promoting sustainable practices. Another personal goal of mine is to maintain a healthy balance between my academic and personal life. While I am committed to excelling in my studies, I also recognize the importance of my physical and mental health. I make time for reading, camping, kayaking, hiking, and of course, maintaining healthy relationships with my family and friends. Owning a solar field is one of my career aspirations that will contribute to the increase of renewable energy generation, reducing our dependency on fossil fuels and fighting against climate change. My plan is to work with utility companies, solar panel manufacturers, and organizations working towards a cleaner and safer tomorrow. By collaborating with these organizations, I will develop and implement renewable energy solutions that will have a significant impact worldwide. I aim to advance the availability, affordability, and efficiency of renewable energy systems, making them more accessible to a greater number of people. Pursuing a mechanical engineering degree with a focus on renewable and alternative energy will unlock a range of career opportunities in fields such as power generation, agriculture, transportation, and policy development. I am confident that I will make a positive impact on the world by promoting and supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy system. By sharing my knowledge and experience, I aspire to educate and inform others about the benefits of renewable energy and the importance of sustainability. This can create a ripple effect that extends beyond my own personal achievements, making a broader impact. Ultimately, by pursuing my goals in engineering and alternative energy, I have the potential to contribute to a better, cleaner, and more sustainable future for everyone.