Combating climate change is a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires the efforts of individuals, communities, and governments around the world. There is no single, most impactful way to address this issue, but there are many actions that can be taken to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. One of the most impactful ways to combat climate change is to transition to clean, renewable sources of energy. This includes increasing the use of solar and wind power, as well as other renewable technologies like hydroelectric and geothermal power. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, this shift to renewable energy can also create jobs and stimulate economic growth. This will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. It will also mean using less energy and investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines. It also means replacing fossil fuels with sustainable alternatives like ethanol or biofuels. In my own life, I strive to fight climate change by recycling trash and composting food waste. I also try to reduce my carbon footprint wherever possible by taking public transportation or riding a bike when possible. I strive to fight climate change in my life by being an active participant in the sustainability movement. I do this by taking part in activities like volunteering with organizations that work to preserve our environment and reduce carbon emissions. Another important way to combat climate change is to reduce energy consumption and increase energy efficiency. This can be achieved through a variety of measures, including improving the energy efficiency of buildings and appliances, adopting energy-efficient transportation options, and adopting more sustainable practices in agriculture and other sectors. Conserving and protecting natural habitats and ecosystems can also be a powerful way to combat climate change. Forests, oceans, and other natural areas play a critical role in sequestering carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, and preserving these areas can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. I can use my knowledge and skills to assist individuals and organizations in finding ways to reduce their carbon footprint and take action to address this global challenge. Many other actions can be taken to combat climate change, and it will likely require a combination of efforts at all levels to effectively address this issue. By working together and taking action at the individual, community, and global levels, we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against climate change.

When I was younger, I had trouble with my mental health. It wasn't because I was depressed or anxious—it was because I had no idea what those things even were! I thought depression meant feeling down, and anxiety was when you always felt nervous. But these feelings were so much more than that, and they're still very real for me today. It took me a long time to learn that mental health issues are not just a feeling—they're a state of being in which your brain is functioning differently from how it's supposed to. This year I was diagnosed with anorexia, severe depression, OCD, psychoticism, and anxiety by my doctor. At the time, it didn't seem like a big deal. But as the months progressed it got worse and I was placed on medication. I went home from the hospital that day and cried for hours. It felt like all the missing pieces were coming together. My childhood fears began to make a lot more sense, my head was swarming, and I felt suffocated. It wasn't until much later in the day that I realized how this must have affected the people around me. I had to learn about all the different kinds of mental health issues, it became clear that there is no one "right" way to deal with them or live with them. There are many ways to be mentally healthy, but none of them are better than any other. Each person has their own unique experiences and unique way of coping with their symptoms. And that's ok! Even though my parents were supportive of my diagnosis, it still felt like something that was just happening to me without my consent or awareness. It wasn't until college that I began to realize that maybe some things about being mentally ill were worth talking about—and even more importantly, fighting for. In a world where every person seems to have their unique struggles with mental health, I have changed how I think about myself and others around me who are dealing with similar issues. For example, if someone else seemed depressed or mentally ill, instead of assuming they were just being dramatic or overreacting (which is what most people do), I would empathize and ask them how they were doing and what they needed from me or others. This has helped me understand that everyone is unique—and deserves empathy and compassion. When someone has a mental health issue, they are not always aware of how much pain they're in. This can make it hard for them to seek treatment or ask for help from others. If we want to help people with mental health issues, we need to start by asking them what they need! Now that I'm more aware of this issue, it makes sense why so many people struggle with their mental health. Many individuals don't seek help for their mental health issues because they are embarrassed by them or feel like they can't talk about them openly without being judged or ridiculed by others' reactions toward their struggles. I've come to recognize that mental illness isn't just something that happens to people who don't have control over their lives. It can happen to anyone, at any time—and we should all be willing to reach out when we need help. I have found that my beliefs about mental illnesses have been influenced by my experiences with them. When you struggle with a mental illness, it can be easy to lose sight of what is important in life. You may feel like you don't matter or that no one will want to be around you because of your condition. You may even feel alone or abandoned by others who know about your struggles but don't understand them properly themselves. I've also learned that relationships can become strained when there is an imbalance in someone's mental health. The best way to prevent this is by being honest about how you're feeling and sharing those feelings openly with others who care about you. If someone else has the same problem as yourself then they might know what they need too! I'm learning how to communicate with my family, friends, and partners about how those feelings impact the relationship and make it better or worse for us. And at school? Well, there's no better example than my lecturer! He has been so supportive through everything and made me feel like this is not just something I will overcome but also something that he is proud of me for overcoming as well. As someone who has struggled with mental illnesses since childhood, it has shaped my beliefs about relationships and career aspirations in many ways. Some people may see those things as weaknesses or limitations; however, they are traits that make me who I am today. They are my superpowers, I wear each one like a battle scar. I am no longer ashamed to tell my story at my local church group. My boldness has positively influenced the mentality of many people in my church. This is my little way of increasing awareness of mental health illnesses in society.

The Bible is a sacred text that has had a profound impact on my life and has helped me to become the person I am today. From its teachings on love and compassion to its messages of hope and redemption, the Bible has given me guidance, strength, and inspiration throughout my journey. One of the things that has always drawn me to the Bible is its emphasis on loving others and showing compassion to those in need. As a Christian, I believe that we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves and to be a light in the world, bringing hope and joy to those around us. One of my favorite scriptures is Matthew 22:36-40, which says, "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." This scripture has always resonated with me because it reminds me of the importance of loving God and loving others. It is a reminder that everything we do should be motivated by love, and that we are called to be a loving and compassionate presence in the world. The Bible has also been a source of hope and inspiration for me during difficult times. Whether I am facing challenges in my personal life, struggling with doubt or fear, or simply feeling lost and unsure of my path, the Bible has always been there to offer comfort, guidance, and encouragement. One of my favorite passages for finding hope and inspiration is Romans 8:28, which says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This verse reminds me that no matter what challenges I may be facing, God is always with me and is working to bring good out of even the most difficult circumstances. One of the most powerful aspects of the Bible has been its emphasis on the importance of loving others and showing compassion to those in need. The Bible teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to be kind and generous to those who are less fortunate. This message has inspired me to be more actively involved in my community and to do what I can to help others. In conclusion, the Bible has had a transformative impact on my life. Its message of love, compassion, and hope has given me strength and guidance during difficult times, and I am grateful for the role it has played in my journey. Whether I am seeking guidance, comfort, or inspiration, the Bible is always there to offer its wisdom and support.

Poem 1 - Mr. Man from Peru There once was a man from Peru Whose pet was a kangaroo He tried to teach it to dance But the kangaroo just sat in a trance The man was quite puzzled, you see He couldn't figure out what was wrong with his pet, you'll agree He tried and he tried, with all of his might But the kangaroo just sat there day and night Finally, one day, he had an epiphany He realized his pet was just too dang lazy So he gave up on dancing and took up a new game He and his kangaroo now play hide and seek, and it's quite a hit, all the same. But the man's troubles didn't end there Oh no, my dear, that's not where The story ends, not by a long shot For you see, the man had a lot Of other pets that caused him strife A parrot that was quite the thief A hamster that liked to roam A turtle that liked to call home The man's house was in a constant state of chaos But he loved his pets, despite the bedlam and noise So he just laughed and went with the flow And every day, his life was a show Poem 2 - Clumsy 'ol Fred There once was a clumsy oaf named Fred Who always seemed to bump into things instead Of walking around them, as a normal person would No, Fred would just plow right through, if he could One day, Fred was walking down the street Daydreaming and not paying attention to his feet He tripped over a crack in the pavement And went flying, completely disenchanted As he lay there on the ground, feeling quite embarrassed He noticed a strange object that he hadn't before targeted It was a mysterious, glowing orb And before he knew it, he was sucked into some kind of portal Fred found himself transported to a strange, magical land Where talking animals roamed, hand in hand He met a wise old owl, who took him under his wing And showed him the wonders that this new world would bring Fred soon learned that he had a special gift He had the ability to make people laugh, with just a simple lift Of his eyebrows or a silly joke or two He was a natural-born comedian, through and through The people of the magical land loved Fred's wit and humor And before long, he was a star, no longer a rumor He traveled from village to village, making people giggle and grin And he was happier than he had ever been So if you ever find yourself in a strange, magical land And you're feeling a little bit down or bland Just remember Fred's story, and let your inner comedian shine Who knows, you might just have a great time

When I was growing up, I did not have a full understanding of the hardships my family was facing. There was nothing else that I knew except that I was constantly worried and scared about the future. I didn't have the same opportunities as my classmates, who had more stable home lives and access to extracurricular activities. I faced a number of hardships that tested my resilience and determination. One of the biggest challenges I faced was financial instability. My family struggled to make ends meet, and there were times when we had to rely on food banks and other forms of assistance just to get by. Despite these struggles, I never let my circumstances hold me back. I worked hard in school and took advantage of every opportunity that came my way. I also learned to be resourceful, seeking out ways to save money and make the most of what we had. One of the steps I took to move forward was seeking out scholarships and financial aid to help pay for college. I knew that getting a higher education would open up doors for me and provide a way out of poverty. It was because of this that I applied to every scholarship I could find and worked hard to win them. My relationships have also been significantly impacted by the lessons I have learned as a result of having to face hard situations in life. It has taught me the value of resilience and the importance of never giving up, even when things get tough. It has also helped me be more empathetic and understanding toward others who are going through their struggles. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to overcome these challenges, and I am determined to pay it forward. I hope to use my experiences to inspire and support others facing similar hardships. I believe that by working together and supporting one another, we can achieve our goals and create a better future for ourselves and those around us. Overall, the hardships I faced in my life have made me stronger and more determined. They have also helped me to appreciate the things that I have and never take them for granted. I believe that the ability to overcome adversity is one of the most valuable skills a person can have, and I will continue to draw on my experiences and the lessons I've learned as I navigate through life.

I have always been fascinated by the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). From a young age, I was drawn to the mysteries of the universe and the ways in which we can use technology to explore and understand it. As I grew older, my curiosity only intensified, and I became more and more convinced that a career in STEM, specifically in aerospace engineering, was the right path for me. There are a few key reasons why I want to pursue a career in aerospace engineering. First and foremost, I am deeply interested in the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft. From commercial airliners to rockets and satellites, the technologies that allow us to travel through the air and even into space are some of the most impressive and complex machines that humans have ever created. The opportunity to be a part of this field and contribute to its advancement is incredibly exciting to me. In addition to my personal interests, I also see a great need for skilled professionals in the aerospace industry. With the increasing demand for air travel and the push to explore and utilize space for a variety of purposes, there is a growing need for highly trained individuals who can design, build, and maintain the complex systems that make all of this possible. I believe that by earning a degree in aerospace engineering, I can not only fulfill my passions and interests but also make a real difference in this field and help to meet the needs of society. But my goals for a career in aerospace engineering go beyond just personal fulfillment and career advancement. I also want to use my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on my community. As someone who has always been passionate about science and technology, I see it as my responsibility to share that knowledge and enthusiasm with others. I believe that by pursuing a career in STEM, I can serve as a role model and mentor for younger students who may be interested in these fields but lack the guidance or support to pursue them. I also want to use my skills and expertise to help address some of the pressing issues facing my community. From improving transportation infrastructure to addressing environmental concerns, many challenges can be solved by applying engineering principles and technologies. My vision is to change the narrative of African women in STEM. I want to use my knowledge as an aerospace engineer to make a difference in Africa by developing solutions to problems related to engineering. I also want to create a foundation that coaches and encourages young African girls to pursue STEM careers. I believe that by using my degree in aerospace engineering to help solve these problems, I can make a real difference in the lives of those around me. In conclusion, a STEM career, specifically in aerospace engineering, is something that I am deeply passionate about. Not only do I find the subject matter fascinating and rewarding, but I also see it as a way to make a positive impact on the world and my community. I am confident that with hard work and determination, I can achieve my goals and make a meaningful contribution to this field.

I have never been one to shy away from a challenge. When I was younger, I was always the first to put my hand up to try something new, and as I’ve gotten older, that hasn’t changed. If anything, it has become more pronounced. In my life and academics, I have had to face some pretty daunting challenges physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally. And while it hasn’t always been easy, I’ve never let adversity get in the way of achieving my goals. As a child, I was often bullied by other kids and adults alike because of my weight, skin color, and hair. In my community, certain things are considered "normal"—and dreaming about becoming an aerospace engineer is not one of them. This made me feel like my dreams were not real—that I didn't deserve what other kids had—and it made me feel like I should give up on them. It was difficult for me to fit in with the rest of my classmates and teachers who were different from me in some way. Although I'm older now, these challenges seem trivial compared to the challenges that so many people face today-particularly children who are bullied or abused at school or home because of their race, religion, or gender. I want to pursue a career in aerospace engineering because I enjoy building new things, and also exploring the infinite unknown. It combines my love of space with my love of engineering. Despite how much I love STEM subjects, one major difficulty I have faced is coming from a low-income family, which makes it difficult to afford college. While it has been tempting to give up when faced with difficulties, I believe that it is through these challenges that I have learned and grown the most. Whenever I am faced with adversity, I try to remind myself of this fact and use it as motivation to keep striving. I also think it is important to remember that everyone faces adversity at some point in their lives. No one has a perfect life, family, or career. We all make mistakes and encounter setbacks along the way. The key is to not let these setbacks define you or stop you from achieving your goals. There are times when negativity creeps in and threatens to derail my progress. This is why I make a conscious effort to surround myself with people, family, and things that inspire and motivate me. When I’m feeling low, I reach out for support from my loved ones or take some time for self-care. Doing things that make me feel happy helps me refocus my thoughts and get back on track. If I ever feel overwhelmed by the task at hand, I break it down into smaller steps that I can complete easily. By taking small steps, I make progress and eventually reach my desired goal. I have realized that negative self-talk only prevents me from taking action and achieving my goals. If I ever catch myself engaging in negative self-talk, I immediately replace those thoughts with positive affirmations. For example, instead of telling myself “I can’t do this”, I tell myself “I am capable of anything I set my mind to”. Words are powerful! In conclusion, I have learned over the years to believe in myself regardless of what society or anyone thinks. I have the potential to be successful and contribute positively to my community. I must believe in myself and my ability to overcome any obstacle. If I don’t, it will be much more difficult to take the necessary actions to achieve my goals and dreams.

One of the most pressing societal issues today is gender inequality and the lack of representation/diversity of minority groups in STEM fields such as engineering. As a child, I vividly remember being told that I would never be able to do anything because I was a skinny black girl with nappy hair. In the African community, certain things are considered "normal," a girl wanting to become an aerospace engineer is not one of them. This made me feel like my dreams were not real—that I did not deserve what other kids had—and it made me feel like I should give up on them. Engineering is a male-dominated field. While there are many women in engineering, they are underrepresented at every level, from entry-level positions to executive leadership. Only 25 percent of all engineers are female, and less than 15 percent of female engineers work for non-profit organizations or governmental agencies. The lack of diversity in the aerospace industry is problematic because it limits our ability to address issues related to gender equality and inclusion. This means there are fewer female employees than men, which means less diversity overall at work. This lack of diversity makes it difficult for us as engineers to effectively communicate with one another and solve problems together. This can lead to mistakes or even accidents happening during production processes. I believe in building relationships based on respect and understanding rather than assumptions or stereotypes. I want to pursue a career in aerospace engineering because it combines two things I love: space exploration and engineering. In secondary school, I was interested in science but not sure where it would take me. Then one day after watching NASA's space shuttle launch on TV, I knew that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I was fascinated and curious about how a man could create rockets that could defy natural laws. Since then I have spent hours at my local public library reading about NASA shuttle missions, aerodynamics, and turbo engines. I strongly believe that women of color are underrepresented in STEM fields. Therefore, I want to create a foundation that coaches and encourages young girls from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue STEM careers. As the one-time Vice President and two-time President of the Junior Engineers Technicians and Scientists (JETS) Club, I was privileged to coach and lead a team of young girls in 2018 to the national finals of the National Robotics Competition and come 1st place! Not only did they learn new life skills and knowledge, but they also developed a sense of self-confidence and belonging as young African girls. In 2019, I began volunteering as a secretary for a technology NGO called DCSI Africa. In 2 years, I became the Operations Manager. As I moved from simple administrative tasks to coordinating global events, workshops, and conferences, my communication, social and teamwork skills improved tremendously. But what I loved most about my job was the opportunity to change the lives of over 20,000 African youths by equipping them with profitable digital skills. This is what drives me to keep working hard for change. I want to be a part of the transformation that is happening in society and work to make it better. Al Harrison a character from the NASA-based movie 'Hidden Figures' once said, "discovery is never just for the sake of discovery but for the sake of human survival". I believe minority women can make discoveries that will ensure the survival and advancement of the human race. I believe these women can contribute significantly to the global market.

There are many reasons why I think we must work to further understand the nature of our universe. For one, it can help us to better appreciate the beauty and wonder of all that exists. Additionally, understanding the universe can also help us solve some of the great mysteries that have puzzled humankind for centuries. In my opinion, one of the most important things we can do to better appreciate the universe is to employ scientific methods and reasoning. By doing so, we can slowly but surely piece together a more accurate picture of reality. Additionally, I think it's important to keep an open mind when exploring the universe. We should be willing to entertain new and radical ideas, even if they may seem improbable at first. I hope that through my efforts, I can contribute in some small way to our understanding of the universe. Who knows? Maybe someday my work will help solve one of the great mysteries of our time. In terms of ideas and concepts, there are many different things that I hope to employ to understand the nature of our universe better. One is to try and develop a working model or framework that can help explain some of the more complex phenomena that we see in our universe. Another is to study the work of others who have gone before us and try to build on their findings. And finally, I think it's imperative to always be open to new ideas and perspectives, as these can often offer new insights into the nature of our universe. We must comprehend the nature of our universe for several reasons. First, by learning about the universe we can better appreciate our place in it. Second, by understanding the universe we can better appreciate its beauty and develop a profound sense of wonder and awe. Finally, by understanding the universe we can start to make predictions about its future. There are many ways to try to better understand our cosmos. One way is to observe it. We can use telescopes and other instruments to study stars, planets, and other objects in space. We can also look at how these objects move and change over time. Another way to learn about the universe is through experiments. Scientists can create models of the universe in laboratories and test their predictions against real data. Theories are another helpful tool for understanding the nature of our universe. Theories are based on observations and experiments, but they extend beyond that by providing a framework for understanding how everything works together. A good theory makes predictions about what we should expect to see in the world around us. One of the most significant theories in physics is Einstein's theory of relativity. This theory explains how gravity works and predicts some strange effects that have been observed in our Universe, like black holes and gravitational waves. Other theories try to explain different aspects of our universe, like quantum mechanics or dark matter. Ultimately, I think we must consider a few key ideas and concepts. I think it is critical to consider the idea of scale. When we look at the universe, we are looking at something that is incredibly vast and unimaginably large. It can be difficult to wrap our minds around just how big the universe actually is. However, by considering the idea of scale, we can start to get a better understanding of the universe and our place within it. Another key concept to consider when trying to better understand the universe is the concept of time. Time is an elusive thing, and it can be difficult to wrap our minds around it. However, when we consider the vastness of the universe and the amount of time that has passed since its inception, we can start to get a better understanding of just how old and vast the universe truly is. Finally, I think it is also critical to consider the concept of change. The universe is constantly changing and evolving, and this can be tough for us to grasp at times. However, by considering how things have changed over time, we can start to get a better understanding of how dynamic and ever-evolving the universe truly is. Studying our universe can help us discover more about who we are and where we came from and also help us solve global problems here on Earth. Finally, learning about the universe can simply be fascinating and give us a profound appreciation of all that exists beyond our planet. There are many different ways to go about trying to make sense of the universe. However, I hope to employ scientific methods and reasoning in my quest to do so.

I have always had a passion for athletics and badminton. I started playing badminton when I was a teen, and it quickly became one of my favorite activities. I would go to the school sports field and play with my friends until we got too tired to continue. When we were done for the day, we would sit under a tree and talk about what happened during our games. Although I am an introvert, I have always enjoyed being outside, as well as being active. It was an outlet for me to get out of my shell and meet new people who shared similar interests with me. Sport taught me how to work hard, how to set goals and achieve them, and most importantly, how to be confident in myself while being hungry for more. Badminton also allowed me to develop as a person. While some things are still difficult for me (like dealing with stress), there are also lots of things that make me smile every day: from winning friendly matches to feeling powerful when you're up against someone much stronger than yourself. Badminton is an extremely physical sport that requires me to be active every day. It is also very competitive, which helps me stay motivated during practice and matches. Badminton is also mentally challenging because there are so many different situations where you need to think quickly on your feet to win! I have found that playing badminton has helped me develop skills such as focus, self-discipline, determination, and confidence—all of which are important for success in academics as well as in life in general. The impact of athletics on my academic experience is profound. I can stay focused in class and practice what I learn in class so that it is easy for me to retain the information. When this happens, it helps me stay focused on what we're doing in class without having any trouble focusing on the lesson at hand. During high school, I had trouble dealing with stress from schoolwork due to my poor study habits. However, through athletics, I learned how to be more organized by learning how to set up study schedules. This helped me to better manage my time and stay on top of my work. This skill has helped me be more successful at school and work as well! Participating in athletics has also helped me develop self-confidence because it has taught me how capable I am when working towards a goal together with others towards a common goal. I also realized that it was one of the major things that helped me get out of depression. Instead of feeling isolated and alone, I felt like part of a community that could help me get through anything life throws at me from now on (and probably still does). The people around me made me feel less alone and more connected to the world around us—and that feeling carried over into everything else in my life too. Jogging also gave me something new to do every day. Something that made me feel positive about myself even when things in my life weren't working well. It also helped me see that depression isn't something you have to accept or live with; it's something you can change if you want! If someone had told me five years ago that running would help me through some difficult times and make me feel better about myself, I wouldn't have believed them or known what they were talking about! Who knew sports could be this powerful?

When I was eight years old, my family had to relocate to a new country in search of greener pastures and a better life. We quickly settled in as I was enrolled in school. My favorite subjects were math and physics. I excelled at them and knew that I wanted to pursue a career in engineering. I worked hard at school and was determined to be an exceptional student. As an immigrant, I have had to journey through a lot of challenges and barriers like culture shock and discrimination. One of the biggest challenges was learning to navigate my new surroundings and fit into them. Despite all the odds, I was determined to be an exceptional female engineer. I loved STEM and education and strived to serve my community just like Maggie did. Maggie was an immigrant who came to the United States for a better life. She was determined to be an extraordinary person and made it her mission to serve her community. She believed everyone had the right to quality education. Though I was not born in the United States, I have always had a sincere love for this country and its people. After completing high school, I decided to pursue a degree in Aeronautical Systems Engineering at Kent State University. I know that getting a good education is the key to success in America, and I am determined to be an exceptional student. It won't be sunshine and rainbows, but with hard work and dedication, I will earn my degree. My love for education doesn’t stop with me. The STEM education opportunities I have provided for young girls in my school have been a big part of my work in the education community. Having witnessed first-hand how this can make a difference in their lives, I know how powerful it can be. As the one-time Vice President and two-time President of the Junior Engineers Technicians and Scientists (JETS) Club, I was privileged to coach and lead a team of young girls to the national finals of the National Robotics Competition and come 1st place! Aside from learning new life skills as well as gaining new knowledge, the students also developed a sense of self-confidence and belonging as well as new life skills. Maggie was devoted to knowledge and education. She believed these two instruments could change the world, I do too. This is why I volunteer as the Operations Manager with organizations such as DCSI Africa which equips college students and young people with the required digital skills they need to be relevant in the workforce after graduation. The most rewarding thing about my job, however, is having the chance to make a significant impact on the lives of thousands of youth. This is what drives me to continue to do my part in bringing about change in this world. Maggie’s story is one of determination in the face of adversity. Despite coming from a humble background and having to work hard to support herself, she never gave up on her dreams. I can relate to Maggie’s story because I too am an immigrant and just like Maggie, I have always been determined to succeed. I am currently pursuing my dream of becoming an aerospace engineer and changing the narrative of women in STEM. Just like Maggie, I believe that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, always remember that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and work hard enough. Be bold, brilliant, and unafraid. The sky is your limit.

This year I was diagnosed with anorexia, severe depression, OCD, psychoticism, and anxiety by my doctor. At the time, it didn't seem like a big deal. But as the months progressed, it got worse and I was placed on medication. I went home from the hospital that day and cried for hours. It felt like all the missing pieces were coming together. My childhood fears began to make a lot more sense, my head was swarming, and I felt suffocated. It wasn't until much later in the day that I realized how this must have affected the people around me. I've come to recognize that mental illness isn't just something that happens to people who don't have control over their lives. It can happen to anyone, at any time—and we should all be willing to reach out when we need help. As someone who has struggled with mental illnesses since childhood, it has shaped my beliefs about relationships and career aspirations in many ways. Some people may see those things as weaknesses or limitations; however, they are traits that make me who I am today. One of the most profound changes for me was how I view myself. I used to think of myself as someone who wasn't good enough, but now I know that's not true—my self-worth is based on how hard I work and what kind of impact I make on others. When people ask me what makes me feel confident about myself, it's not something superficial or materialistic; it's the fact that my work helps other people, especially those who don't have as much access to resources as I do. Another way in which I've grown over the past year and the event that inspired this personal growth was my involvement in helping to organize a conference on digital skills for thousands of youths. The event brought together industry leaders and people from all over the world all of whom were eager to learn new skills while creating global solutions together. It was an incredible experience because it showed me how much potential there is for change within our community when we come together as one voice—and it taught me that there are so many ways we can bring more joy into everyday life. My journey of self-discovery has also helped me learn to be more open-minded and empathetic. I used to be judgmental and prejudiced toward others based on their social class; now, I can see why these traits are so common among people who were raised in a different environment than mine. I am now more well-rounded than ever before, and my life is much more fulfilling than it was before. My sense of self has expanded in ways that are difficult to describe—but there's one thing that stands out when I think about it: I've been able to see things from different perspectives. I used to think of myself as being extremely independent and self-sufficient, but now I realize that this kind of attitude can be toxic. It's important for us all—especially women—to understand that there are many ways we can contribute positively to our communities, families, and ourselves without having to do everything on our own. As much as they need our help, we sometimes need theirs as well! It's okay to ask for help. Our greatest transformation might come from the help we sometimes deny ourselves.

I firmly believe that the world economy can be transformed by education technology. I believe this because, like all economies, the world economy is a complex system that is made up of many different parts. A transformation of the world economy would require a transformation of all those parts, and I think that edutech can help make this possible. The reason I say this is because edutech can help increase the number of people who have access to education, which in turn will increase their quality of life. This means that not only are they able to improve their own lives, but they are also able to improve the lives of those around them as well. Education can be a very powerful tool for improving lives in many ways. The next step for edutech is to help people learn skills that will give them an edge when they enter the workforce. And this is where I think it becomes powerful: by helping people acquire the skills that they need to succeed in life, we empower them to take charge of their destinies. With edutech, we can ensure that every learner has access to high-quality content--at an affordable price--and then give them tools that teach them how to use those resources effectively. The STEM education opportunities that I have been providing for young girls in my school have been a big part of my work in the education community. Having witnessed first-hand how this can make a difference in their lives, I know how powerful it can be. As the one-time Vice President and two-time President of the Junior Engineers Technicians and Scientists (JETS) Club, I was privileged to coach and lead a team of young girls to the national finals of the National Robotics Competition and come 1st place! Aside from learning new life skills as well as gaining new knowledge, the students also developed a sense of self-confidence and belonging as well as new life skills. In 2019, I began working as a secretary for a technology NGO called DCSI Africa. In 2 years, I became the Operations Manager. I found that my ability to communicate, socialize with members of my team, and work well within a team improved as I moved from simple administrative tasks to coordinating global events, workshops, and conferences. The most rewarding thing about my job, however, was having the chance to make a significant impact on the lives of thousands of African youths. This was done by providing them with the necessary skills to become successful in the digital world. It is this that drives me to continue to do my part in bringing about change in this world. There's still more work to be done if we want to see real change in our community, country, and the world. We can't be complacent. The challenges we face are pressing and urgent. But with dedication, diligent work, and grace, I know we can make a real difference. I'm confident we can do it—and I'm ready to fight for it until the end. Everyone can make a change. You only have to be willing to take the first step. It's not always an easy journey, but it's worth it. Every small act of kindness and compassion makes a difference. I'm confident that we can make a difference if we all work together. Let's continue to make our community, country, and the world a better place for everyone.

Life is full of unpredictable situations. We need a personal mission statement to motivate and guide us through those hardships so we can continue to be productive and accomplish our goals. In my everyday life, I display resilience, unselfishness, focus, a strong work ethic, and determination by being positive and working hard. I am resilient because I can bounce back from any setback or negative situation. I don't get upset or give up on myself. Instead, I try harder next time and do better. I strive to be unselfish because it helps me stay focused on what's meaningful to me. If someone asked me for help with something that would be easy for me to do but not for them (like helping them move their car), I would say yes because it would not take away from my own goals and priorities in life. My strong work ethic helps me stay focused on homework assignments without procrastinating. I focus on the task at hand and do not let anything distract me from achieving my goals. My work ethic is strong, and I always put 110% effort into everything I do. An invaluable lesson I have learned in life is how to channel the aforementioned attributes into my passions and career. People have unique interests and passions, which can become career paths. With my passions and interests, I hope to make the world a better place. I am presently working hard to earn my degree in Aeronautical Systems Engineering Technology. I know this field will provide me with an excellent background for positive contributions to society. My true passion is to use STEM skills and knowledge to help future generations of dark-skinned women. JETS Club, of which I served one time as Vice President and twice as President, exposed me to STEM-related careers that inspired my interest in engineering. I was privileged to coach a team of teenage girls to the national finals of the National Robotics Competition and they came 1st place! It was fulfilling to see the beaming smiles of the young ladies as they were announced as winners. They finally understood that despite being underrepresented kids, they were capable of much more than society made them believe. As a child, I vividly remember being told that I would never be able to do anything because I was a skinny black girl with nappy hair. In the African community, certain things are considered "normal," a girl wanting to become an aerospace engineer is not one of them. I felt like my dreams weren't real, that I didn't deserve what other kids had, and I should give up. One day after watching NASA's space shuttle launch on TV, I knew that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. In the years since then, I have spent hours at my local public library reading about NASA shuttle missions, aerodynamics, and turbo engines. On the other hand, I believe leadership works hand in hand with STEM. In addition to making big decisions and leading by example, leadership is about being able to help others reach their goals and having confidence in themselves. I've found that leadership is something that comes naturally to me. However, if I'm not constantly working on myself, then I won't be able to help anyone else reach their potential. Even though gender stereotypes exist, I believe girls can make a difference in STEM and leadership fields. It will create solutions to global problems relating to engineering that will be of immense benefit to all of humanity.

The value of financial literacy is underappreciated and often neglected. The price of this ignorance can be seen in individual lives since people with low financial literacy have been shown to have less overall wealth. This is because they are more likely to fall into bankruptcy, become dependent on welfare, or spend time in prison. Financial literacy is simply an understanding of how money works. Financial literacy is being able to manage one's money to make sound financial decisions. This includes knowing how to save, invest, and spend wisely. Financial literacy matters because it affects our ability to have fulfilling lives and live in the present moment. A lack of financial literacy can be a barrier to economic success. This is because people who are not financially literate are often unaware of their own needs. They fail to see the value of savings or investments, and they do not know how much money they need for retirement or college tuition. In addition, people who are not financially literate often make poor emotional decisions about spending or saving. This can lead them to debt and other problems later on down the road. Financial education should be part of every child's curriculum starting in elementary school. This is so that students can learn how money works and how they can manage it well throughout their lives. I am educating myself to become financially literate by reading a variety of books and articles about personal finance like Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. I will also listen to podcasts and watch YouTube videos on the subject. These resources will help me understand what it means to be financially literate, as well as how to make smart decisions that lead to financial success. I regularly participate in virtual groups where people who have similar interests discuss their experiences with personal finance and answer questions from other participants. This can help me feel like there is someone out there who understands what I'm struggling with, even if they don't know me personally. In addition, I plan to take classes on how to manage money so I can gain skills that are useful when dealing with money issues later in life. The first class will cover these topics: saving, investing, and insurance. Later classes may cover topics like debt management, tax planning, and retirement planning. As a college student, I am constantly educating myself about money and financial literacy. The more I learn, the more I realize that there is so much I still don't know. The purpose of my upcoming college years is to teach my friends, family, and classmates how to manage money. There is one thing I want them to know - I want them to be able to make informed financial decisions in the future. Through my social media platforms, I hope to be able to share topics concerning personal finance such as budgeting, saving, investing, and avoiding scams in the marketplace. With this, I intend to help my followers become more financially savvy by providing them with a wealth of information. As a member of my community, I intend to educate it on the importance of laying a solid financial foundation, and on how to do that.

Many people remember Mulan as a colorful and bright movie that didn't have much of a storyline. Even though it's 24 years old, it still has very catchy songs like "I'll Make a Man Out of You" and "Reflection." Some people don't realize how brave Mulan was because she looked so delicate. However, it was rather easy for the character to be courageous because she had confidence in herself. Mulan played an extremely significant part in my childhood and shaped the way I view myself and other women. When I was younger, I struggled with my own identity. I didn't want to be considered a poor black girl, but in many ways, I wasn't assertive about my thoughts either. Mulan taught me to be proud of who I am, even if other people couldn't understand it. Mulan bravely fought for her family, her country, and herself—a demonstration of strength that I've never forgotten. It's because of Mulan that I now dare to become the kind of woman I choose to be—strong, independent, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Not only did she help me come out of my shell, but she also helped me feel like it was okay to do so. Mulan is the perfect mix of strength, vulnerability, and care. Her struggle as a girl wanting to break free from the traditional expectations of women in China was just not what made her so remarkable, though—it's the fact that she overcame her fears, marched into battle against an enemy army to join her father in defending their people, and ultimately saved them at a steep cost. She's unforgettable! She's characterized as a "warrior princess" in most of her appearances, but I think that's an oversimplification. She isn't just a fighter—she's a fighter and an empath; someone who can take care of others and herself. And I think that's something we need more of in today's world. Mulan also has a profound love for her family and country, so much so that she would risk everything to protect them from harm or destruction. She is determined and fearless in all things she does, which makes her an amazing role model for all children who want to overcome their fears and achieve greatness! For someone who is a Disney character, Mulan sure had the most influence on how I view strong women and life.

I was a shy kid with nappy hair who was constantly teased about it. It wasn't until high school that I realized there was more to me than just the girl who was afraid of everything. I had a teacher who believed in me and gave me the confidence to explore my voice. He allowed me to write stories, poems, and even essays that changed my life. One day, though, I decided to write an essay about a little black girl who wanted to be an astronaut and goes through some challenges along the way. It was just for fun—I never intended to publish it or anything like that—but my teacher liked it so much that he asked if he could use it as an example in one of our class assignment reviews. I thought that sounded fun, so I agreed! Eventually, my writing gained the attention of the CEO of an NGO that supported girls like me with big dreams. She asked if she could publish my work on the organization's website and magazine, and I agreed! I couldn't believe my work could gain such recognition! Writing gave me a way out of my shell and opened up a creative side of myself that I never believed existed. It allowed me to express feelings I didn't know how to express before, like the sadness of losing something you love or the discrimination that came with being an assertive black girl who wanted to become more than society made of her. It made me feel better about myself—less alone in the big world we live in. Writing helped me escape reality and allowed me to develop my creativity in a way not limited by everyday life experiences or people around me who did not understand my big dreams and aspirations. It helped me define who I am as an individual and where I wanted to go with this newfound freedom instead of talking about things out loud like everyone else does without action to back them up. Writing allows me to explore the world around me without fear or judgment—and without needing to be "right" or "good" at it. When I'm writing, there's no pressure to be perfect; all that matters is that my words are true to who I am and where I am in life. Writing allows me to explore who I am and what makes me tick in a way that doesn't involve being judged by anyone else. Writing also has helped me learn how to navigate social environments and has opened up scholarship opportunities that I otherwise wouldn't have qualified for. It has helped me develop my literary skillset and opened up academic opportunities that wouldn't have been available otherwise. By writing, I clarify my identity and explore all the unique possibilities that being alive offers me. I am no longer afraid to be myself. The best thing about writing is that, regardless of our experiences and upbringing, we are all given a chance to share something unique. What other art form allows us to do this?

I avoided the mirror because I was scared to find traces of my former self I thought I had tucked away The abyss of guilt pulled me back The darkness clouded my vision It felt like I was being buried alive The pressure and the heat restructured me I became a diamond in the rough But I was hidden for way too long Now, I have been cut and polished Both by THE MASTER CRAFTSMAN I now sparkle in the very presence of HIS LIGHT Today I am revealed to you. I have become something new, something more. More than gold A jewel of her class A wonder in her own right Each cut and blemish I wear with pride They are my battle scars Proof of my victory against the ever-marching army of self-doubt and life challenges Of course, there will still be dark days Days that I will be denied any light to reflect And nights the moon will shield its face from me But I will hold on to the words of THE MASTER CRAFTSMAN 'Diamonds aren't diamonds till they've been buried alive'

The song "Glowing Up," by Cynthia Erivo, is one of the most meaningful songs to me because it shows that even when we are surrounded by darkness & pressure, we should always remember that diamonds are made under the weight of mountains. The song starts with a soft melody and then picks up as the chorus kicks in. The lines in the chorus that stood out to me were "Diamonds don't shine till they've been buried alive, I've been in the rough for long enough tonight I'm glowing up" These lines show that we will always be weighed down by life, but then we can decide to allow this pressure to transform us into the most valuable version of ourselves. The song continues with lyrics like "The pressure gets tough for just long enough, tonight I'm glowing up." This line shows that everything we go through plays a part in building us to become who we are today. Our positive and negative experiences have shaped us into the superheroes we are. Therefore every experience is a blessing in disguise, a blessing we should be grateful for. It is up to each of us to make the most of our experiences. We either allow them to beat us down or learn from them and rise from the ashes like the phoenix ‘Glowing Up’ is a song of hope, promise, perseverance, and courage. To succeed and make the most of life, one will need these core virtues. I have been through a lot in my life, and I'm still trying to figure things out. However, I have hope and faith. I’m ready for whatever life throws at me.

Maths is a topic that fascinates me. From the theorems and formulae that form our know-how of the world, the good judgment, analytics, and the connections among the abstractions determined in our classrooms and everyday lifestyles, I love all of it! I started analyzing maths at a young age, but it wasn't until years later that I realized how much I loved it. My dad had continually been interested in physics and data, so while we began discussing maths and physics together, it hit me: this is what I desired to do! So from then on, I studied engineering as well as math. There are no wrong answers in mathematics, only mathematically incorrect solutions! If you try out one method and it turns out to be incorrect, that means you need to check your calculations or assumptions by coming up with another method or data source. I also love mathematics because it lets me look at different styles and relationships between things without needing a dictionary or textbook—just a pen and paper! My favorite part of maths is its ability to be applied to problem-solving in everyday life. Math is the language of the universe, and it's fascinating to me that the same rules that govern the universe also apply to the world around us. I remember being in secondary school and taking my first calculus class. I was so excited and proud of myself because I had finally figured out how to apply math to something practical! It was as if this new language had opened up a whole new world for me: a world where I could make sense of things on my own, rather than having someone else do it for me. The best part about maths is that it doesn't just help you understand your world—it also helps you change it. If you have a problem with something in your life, and all you have at your disposal is math, then math will help you solve that problem. And if there isn't any solution yet? Well then maybe there will be soon enough! Math gives us hope in our uncertainty; it gives us confidence when we don't know what comes next or how things will turn out—and most importantly: it gives us hope that we can make things better, even when they're not perfect yet. I genuinely love math, and the more I do it, the more fascinating it becomes. There's always something new to learn! Math gives me a sense of structure: when the world is chaotic and confusing, math provides some order and helps me find structure in other things that otherwise might feel overwhelming. The mathematics of the physical universe is fascinating. They are awe-inspiring, they are beautiful, and they are enchanting, and mysterious. Like any good medium of expression, mathematics is capable of representing nearly limitless concepts and abstractions in profound ways. And the universe it represents is huge, far more than anyone could ever know or experience. More than this though, I believe that the study of math properly represents the purest form of thought. It's certainly not for everyone, but it is for me.

I believe that each of us has the power to create positive change in our communities and beyond, and that's something that I'm committed to doing. I've been involved in several youth projects and initiatives focused on creating positive change, and I've seen firsthand how impactful our actions can be. Every little thing we do makes a difference, and eventually, those small changes add up to create a significant positive impact. There are so many changes I want to see in my community, Nigeria, and the world. I want to see an end to poverty, violence, and disease. I want everyone to be able to access education, healthcare, and basic needs like food and clean water. But I know that I can't do it alone. There are so many changes I want to see in my home country of Nigeria. I want to live in a home where the average man does not need the big man to get the average things done. I dream that one day Nigeria will be a place with equal access to education and healthcare. I want the government to be more transparent and accountable to its people. I want corruption to be eradicated from our society. But most of all, I want my fellow Nigerians to be happy and prosperous. I want them to have good jobs, safe homes, and access to the best possible healthcare and education. I want them to be free to express themselves without fear of being persecuted. I grew up not having access to any of these, but I believe it is possible regardless. I know that change doesn't happen overnight, and I must remain optimistic that we can make a difference if we all work together. I want to see the world become a more peaceful and compassionate place. I want to see people of all races, religions, and nationalities living in harmony. I've witnessed violence and terrorism in my homeland, from Boko Haram to the Lekki Toll Gate massacre. I want to an end to all the violence, hatred, and bigotry. I believe that the change I want to see in my community, Nigeria, and the world is one in which every person has an opportunity to thrive. I'm committed to helping make this vision a reality, and my actions have already helped make a significant positive impact. For example, one of the things I'm most passionate about is edu-tech. I've been working hard to provide STEM educational opportunities for young girls in my school. I've seen firsthand how this can make a transformative difference in their lives. As the one-time Vice President and two-time President of the Junior Engineers Technicians and Scientists (JETS) Club, I was privileged to coach and lead a team of young girls to the national finals of the National Robotics Competition and come 1st place! Not only did they learn new life skills and knowledge, but they also developed a sense of self-confidence and belonging. In 2019, I began working as a Secretary with a technology NGO called DCSI Africa. In 2 years, I became the Operations Manager. As I moved from simple administrative tasks to coordinating global events, workshops, and conferences, my communication, social and teamwork skills improved tremendously. But what I loved most about my job was the opportunity to change the life of millions of African youths by equipping them with profitable digital skills. This is what drives me to keep working hard for change. I want to be a part of the transformation that is happening in society and work to make it better. There's still more work to be done if we want to see real change in our community, country, and the world. We can't be complacent, the challenges we face are pressing and too important. But with dedication, hard work, and grace, I know we can make a real difference. I'm confident we can do it—and I'm ready to fight for it until the end. Everyone can make a change, you only have to be willing to take the first step. It's not always an easy journey, but it's worth it. Every small act of kindness and compassion makes a difference. I'm proud of the changes I've helped make in my community, Nigeria, and the world. I know there's still a lot of work to be done, but I'm confident that we can make a difference if we all work together. Let's continue to make our community, country, and the world a better place for everyone.

Learning is so important to me because it allows me to continue growing and evolving as a person. I believe that learning is the best way to become more knowledgeable about the world around me and to create my path in life. It is the only way to expand my knowledge, and I am always eager to learn more. I plan to continue learning throughout my life by reading books and articles, going on trips, watching movies, taking classes at school or online, listening to podcasts, attending conferences and workshops, and meeting new people. It will help me stay up-to-date with trends in technology, business practices, scientific discoveries, social issues, etc. My parents taught me how to read, write, and do basic math when I was a young girl. They were very strict about keeping me in line when it came to doing homework, but they also gave me plenty of opportunities to learn new things outside of school. For example: once a week during the holidays my dad would take me out with him to his studio for live records. Every week we would bring home different types of video projects to work on—from music videos to TV adverts—so that I could learn about different editing styles while also trying them out myself! In addition to these experiences with IT, I have also learned how to design graphic flyers for special occasions. I'm currently designing a flyer for my local church's Sunday service(which is super easy)! I believe that learning is a lifelong process, and I have the opportunity to learn new things every day. Learning is also important to me because it helps me become a better person. When I can learn about something new, my mind expands and grows, which allows me to become more open-minded and accepting of other people's perspectives. In addition, learning helps me develop my skills as a person. When I learn something new, I can apply this knowledge in different situations. Learning is so important to me because it is a lifelong pursuit. Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge. It is also about retaining it and growing with new skills and perspectives. I plan on continuing my pursuit of learning throughout my life because I value how learning helps me develop my identity and find meaning in what I do. I want to encourage other people who want to learn more about the world around them to do so! Learning can be fun and easy!

I love learning new things and discovering what makes things tick. That is why studying engineering is so appealing to me—it enables me to explore all aspects of how things work. As a student, I can become more knowledgeable about the world around us that we live in every day but don't necessarily appreciate. Higher education is important to me because it allows me to pursue my dreams. I've always had a fascination with outer space, and I hope to one day work as an aerospace engineer. A degree in this field will help me get there. My future as an aerospace engineer depends entirely on my dedication and hard work during my studies. However, being able to earn a degree from a top-ranked university will give me an advantage over other applicants who may not have as much experience or knowledge yet. Firstly, going to college means more than just getting an education. It means obtaining engineering knowledge, increasing my experience, and obtaining skills that will help me succeed in my career. Secondly, getting an education is especially significant in my family because it signifies intelligence and perseverance. No child in my family has completed college, and I would like to be the one that breaks this cycle. Graduating from college will guarantee me a stable future. I want to be able to pursue my dreams and make a difference in the world. A lot of people want to be successful, but do not know how. If you ask me what my dream is, I would say I want to become an Aerospace Engineer. I am sure that if there was no higher education system available, then there would be many more problems for society today than there already are today. There will be an increased crime rate. In today's global society, we need more people who are equipped with information and understanding so they can contribute meaningfully to society as a whole. That's why higher education is so important—it helps prepare students for careers as professionals and leaders in their fields of study. With higher education, you'll learn how to think critically about complex issues and about yourself—which makes it easier for you to find work that aligns with your values and talents. Higher education can also help you become smarter about managing your money. As an adult learner, you must understand how money works so that you can take control of your financial future by budgeting effectively and investing wisely. Education is important to me because it empowers me to be the best version of myself. I feel that higher education helps me to understand and appreciate what makes someone else different from me, so I can better understand how we can work together to achieve our common goals. I believe everyone deserves the chance to go through college and get a degree; it should be an option available to all people who want it. College graduates aren't just well-educated—they're also more likely than those without degrees to have good jobs and happy families. In my opinion, the most important thing in life is learning and growth, this includes both academic learning and personal growth.

My life goal is to become an Aerospace Engineer and change the narrative of women of color in STEM. I believe this will create solutions to global problems relating to engineering that will be of immense benefit to all of humanity. I want to pursue a career in aerospace engineering because it combines two things I love: space exploration and engineering. I am passionate about the future of space, and I want to be a part of the diversity and change happening in society. I can achieve this goal by: 1) Becoming an Aerospace Engineer by attending college, getting accepted into an engineering program, and then graduating with honors. 2) Using my knowledge as an Aerospace Engineer to make a difference in the world by developing solutions for global problems relating to engineering such as pollution and global warming. 3) Creating a foundation that coaches and guides young women interested in STEM careers. As much as I am passionate about STEM, I have experienced a lot of difficulties. I come from a low-income family which makes college expenses a big financial burden. I was able to finish high school with impressive WASSCE and NECO results. However, when it came to applying for colleges, I wasn't allowed the luxury of applying to ivy schools because of my financial situation. I have been working for a few months now and started my own business. The problem is that it's still too early to tell how well the business will do. It's hard to make decisions when you don't have any money. Even though I didn't have a rich upbringing, I refuse to let my financial constraints demotivate me. I'm going to finish college and give all I can to my community, regardless. As a child, I vividly remember being told that I would never be able to do anything because I was a skinny black girl with nappy hair. In the global community, certain things are considered "normal," an African girl wanting to become an aerospace engineer is not one of them. This made me feel like my dreams were not real—that I did not deserve what other kids had—and it made me feel like I should give up on them. The lack of support and criticism has been the most emotionally draining challenge I've faced as a young woman. Engineering is a male-dominated field. While there are many women in engineering, they are underrepresented at every level, from entry-level positions to executive leadership. Only 25 percent of all engineers are female, and less than 15 percent of female engineers work for non-profit organizations or governmental agencies. The lack of diversity in the aerospace industry is problematic because it limits our ability to address issues related to gender equality and inclusion. Al Harrison a character from the NASA-based movie 'Hidden Figures' once said, "discovery is never just for the sake of discovery but for the sake of human survival". Through Aerospace Engineering discoveries, I will work to ensure the representation of black women in STEM and the advancement of humanity.

Online gaming is a phenomenon that has overtaken the world. People of all ages are playing video games on their computers, tablets, or smartphones. The popularity of online gaming has grown exponentially over the years, but there are still many people who don't understand how it affects their lives. I believe that one of the main reasons people are oblivious to its effect is that they don't understand the full extent of what goes on in online gaming forums. On some, people can post anything they want without fear of being judged by others. They can say whatever they want about anyone else without any repercussions. They can even threaten other players with violence to get their point across! However, this behavior has led to many negative consequences for offline social interactions, including increased bullying and harassment at schools. When people interact online, they can be completely different than how they would act in real life. Online gaming forums have become the go-to place for people to discuss their day-to-day lives, and while this is great, it has its drawbacks. In a study conducted on gamers who play Call of Duty, researchers found that their behavior on these forums is much different from how they act in real life. They were more likely to speak negatively about other players without provocation or interruption from moderators or other players on the forum. In addition, many of these gamers did not use phrases like "please" or "thank you" when requesting assistance from other players. This lack of respect for other's personal space and lack of consideration for others' needs can have serious consequences. Many online communities have become so large that it has become impossible to regulate them all. Players have less control over what happens in their community and therefore do not feel as though they can keep themselves from acting inappropriately. They do not accept responsibility for anything that happens within their communities because there are no consequences for bad behavior. A study revealed that children exposed to aggressive media content early on tended to be more aggressive themselves later in life. While these findings are concerning, there are ways to combat them. Moderation policies should be implemented so players feel safe expressing themselves without fear of retaliation. Moderators should intervene if they see any inappropriate behavior, and parents should monitor what their children watch. In today's society, we are becoming more disconnected from one another. This can be seen by the increasing number of people who play video games for hours at a time and never interact with anyone outside their gaming community. Studies have shown that only 1% of gamers play with others outside their community. This lack of communication can have serious consequences for our society as a whole. The effects of this phenomenon are evident in our everyday lives; we see it when someone breaks down in tears after losing a game or when they make offensive comments about another person's race or gender online. These situations do not occur because people have given up on empathy or civility—they occur because they are now disconnected from other people on a social level. It is clear that technology has changed how we relate to each other socially, but I believe that we can develop ways to combat this trend toward isolationism.

When I was younger, I had trouble with my mental health. It wasn't because I was depressed or anxious—it was because I had no idea what those things even were! I thought depression meant feeling down, and anxiety was when you always felt nervous. But these feelings were so much more than that, and they're still very real for me today. It took me a long time to learn that mental health issues are not just a feeling—they're a state of being in which your brain is functioning differently from how it's supposed to. This year I was diagnosed with anorexia, severe depression, OCD, psychoticism, and anxiety by my doctor. At the time, it didn't seem like a big deal. But as the months progressed it got worse and I was placed on medication. I went home from the hospital that day and cried for hours. It felt like all the missing pieces were coming together. My childhood fears began to make a lot more sense, my head was swarming, and I felt suffocated. It wasn't until much later in the day that I realized how this must have affected the people around me. I had to learn about all the different kinds of mental health issues, it became clear that there is no one "right" way to deal with them or live with them. There are many ways to be mentally healthy, but none of them are better than any other. Each person has their own unique experiences and unique way of coping with their symptoms. And that's ok! Even though my parents were supportive of my diagnosis, it still felt like something that was just happening to me without my consent or awareness. It wasn't until college that I began to realize that maybe some things about being mentally ill were worth talking about—and even more importantly, fighting for. In a world where every person seems to have their unique struggles with mental health, I have changed how I think about myself and others around me who are dealing with similar issues. For example, if someone else seemed depressed or mentally ill, instead of assuming they were just being dramatic or overreacting (which is what most people do), I would empathize and ask them how they were doing and what they needed from me or others. This has helped me understand that everyone is unique—and deserves empathy and compassion. When someone has a mental health issue, they are not always aware of how much pain they're in. This can make it hard for them to seek treatment or ask for help from others. If we want to help people with mental health issues, we need to start by asking them what they need! Now that I'm more aware of this issue, it makes sense why so many people struggle with their mental health. Many individuals don't seek help for their mental health issues because they are embarrassed by them or feel like they can't talk about them openly without being judged or ridiculed by others' reactions toward their struggles. I've come to recognize that mental illness isn't just something that happens to people who don't have control over their lives. It can happen to anyone, at any time—and we should all be willing to reach out when we need help. I have found that my beliefs about mental illnesses have been influenced by my experiences with them. When you struggle with a mental illness, it can be easy to lose sight of what is important in life. You may feel like you don't matter or that no one will want to be around you because of your condition. You may even feel alone or abandoned by others who know about your struggles but don't understand them properly themselves. I've also learned that relationships can become strained when there is an imbalance in someone's mental health. The best way to prevent this is by being honest about how you're feeling and sharing those feelings openly with others who care about you. If someone else has the same problem as yourself then they might know what they need too! I'm learning how to communicate with my family, friends, and partners about how those feelings impact the relationship and make it better or worse for us. And at school? Well, there's no better example than my lecturer! He has been so supportive through everything and made me feel like this is not just something I will overcome but also something that he is proud of me for overcoming as well. As someone who has struggled with mental illnesses since childhood, it has shaped my beliefs about relationships and career aspirations in many ways. Some people may see those things as weaknesses or limitations; however, they are traits that make me who I am today. They are my superpowers, I wear each one like a battle scar. I am no longer ashamed to tell my story at my local church group. My boldness has positively influenced the mentality of many people in my church. This is my little way of increasing awareness of mental health illnesses in society.

When I look at the world and the people in it, I see only one thing: diversity. We are all so different from one another, and we have been shaped by our experiences—both good and bad. The diversity of expertise that exists in the world is what makes us all unique individuals, and it's what makes us all valuable to each other. I fell in love with Aerospace Engineering at age 15. I was fascinated by how a man could create rockets that could defy natural laws. Since then, I have spent hours at local public libraries reading about NASA shuttle missions, aerodynamics, and turbo engines. I've continued this passion throughout my life. It inspired me to pursue engineering at the university level. I want to be a part of the change that is happening in society and work to make it better. I am passionate about the future of space and the role that humans play in it. Building stuff from scratch is amazing! Having worked with my hands as a mechanic intern before going into engineering school has given me a different perspective on what engineers do every day: building stuff and making things happen for people. Aerospace engineering has always been about working together; it's about collaborating with others on a project to solve a problem. It's about building something new out of an existing idea or concept. It's about understanding how things work so you can make them better, faster, stronger—and more efficient than ever before! I believe diversity in the workplace plays a significant role in the success of the Aerospace industry. As a woman and a person of color, I understand how important it is that we recognize diversity in our workplace—and how much more productive it can be when everyone feels comfortable being themselves in the office. In the aerospace industry, women make up less than 25% of all employees. This means there are fewer female employees than men, which means less diversity overall at work. This lack of diversity is problematic because it limits our ability to address issues related to gender equality and inclusion. This lack of diversity makes it harder for us as engineers to effectively communicate with one another and solve problems together, which can lead to mistakes or even accidents happening during production processes. I believe in building relationships based on respect and understanding rather than assumptions or stereotypes. Diversity in the workplace is crucial, it allows for innovation and collaboration. Innovation is what drives progress forward, and we cannot progress if we are not willing to collaborate with other people who may have different ideas or ways of thinking than us. When we work together as partners, we can accomplish great things together!

Maths is a subject that fascinates me. From the theorems and formulae that shape our understanding of the world, the logic, analytics, and the connections between the abstractions found in our classrooms and everyday life, I love it all! I started studying maths at primary school, but it was not until years later that I realized how much I enjoyed it. My dad had always been interested in physics and statistics, so when we started discussing maths and physics together, then it hit me: this is what I wanted to do! So from then on, I studied engineering as well as math. In maths there are no right or wrong answers; there are only mathematically correct answers! If you try one out and it's incorrect you will have discovered an error somewhere in your calculations or assumptions that needed verifying with other methods or data sources before coming up with your answer. I also love maths because it allows you to see patterns and relationships between different things without needing a dictionary or a textbook - just a pen and paper! My favorite part of maths is its ability to be applied to problem-solving in everyday life. For example: if you have a question about your car's speedometer reading and your car doesn't have an odometer, then you can use maths to calculate it. As a music enthusiast and guitarist, I believe composing melody and harmony is as intriguing as solving a mathematical problem. Outside the curriculum, I am a team player who likes taking on responsibilities and fostering good communication among my colleagues. These traits combined with my academic achievements made me the president of the STEM-based Jets Club in high school. While enriching my extracurricular life, volunteering as Head of Operations at an NGO, DCSI Africa, has taught me important interpersonal skills that will serve me well as an adult."