When I think about what I want to build, I think about legacy—the kind of impact that outlives a single building or career. My legacy will be shaped not just by brick and steel, but by equity, sustainability, and care. I aspire to open my own architecture firm—one that centers marginalized communities, builds with climate justice in mind, and challenges a profession that still doesn’t reflect the diversity of the people it serves. That vision solidified the summer before my senior year, when I was selected for the STEMcx Environmental Justice Internship. Under the mentorship of Dr. Francis, an environmental engineering professor at George Washington University, I conducted field research on air pollution in underserved Baltimore neighborhoods—communities like my own. Equipped with low-cost sensors like PurpleAir and AirBeams, I collected air quality data block by block. I combined that with census and land use data to map environmental hazards and visualize their disproportionate effects on Black, brown, and low-income residents. This hands-on work taught me that environmental injustice isn’t just about data points—it’s structural, deeply embedded in how neighborhoods are planned, neglected, or policed. I didn’t just study injustice; I walked it, documented it, and listened to residents whose health and safety are daily shaped by their built environments. That experience changed how I view architecture—not just as a design practice, but as a mechanism for systemic change. What if we used design to undo harm? What if buildings and infrastructure could actively promote healing, safety, and joy? But conducting this research wasn’t easy. I often felt like an outsider in the world of environmental science and data analysis—fields where people who look like me are rarely represented. According to recent statistics, less than 2% of licensed architects in the U.S. are Black women, and only 19% of all architects identify as people of color. In environmental engineering and urban planning, the numbers aren’t much better. I faced a steep learning curve—new technology, new terminology, and new expectations in a space that wasn’t always built for me. There were times I questioned if I belonged, or if I was smart enough to contribute something meaningful. But instead of shrinking, I leaned in. I spent nights teaching myself how to use GIS software and interpret environmental metrics. I asked questions even when I was scared of looking inexperienced. I reminded myself that my perspective—shaped by lived experience in the very communities we were studying—was not just valid, but essential. By the end of the summer, I had completed an independent project, presented my findings to a national audience, and was awarded Best Research. But more than the recognition, I came away with a sense of direction: I wanted to use architecture to rewrite the spatial conditions that harm communities like mine. Now, I’m pursuing my B.Arch at Carnegie Mellon University, where I’m a Tartan Scholar and a mentee in a support network for first-generation and underrepresented students. My long-term goal is to earn a Master’s in Architecture from Harvard and open a firm that initiates its own socially driven projects—designing schools, housing, and public infrastructure grounded in justice, resilience, and community voice. This scholarship would make a significant difference. It would relieve financial strain, allowing me to focus on research and projects that align with my mission rather than only those that pay. It would help fund supplies, design software, and unpaid internships that are often barriers for low-income students. Most importantly, it would bring me one step closer to transforming my lived experience into spaces that empower others—not just to exist, but to thrive.

My greatest achievement to date is my involvement in the STEMcx Environmental Justice Internship during the summer of 2023. This transformative experience not only solidified my commitment to environmental justice but also equipped me with invaluable skills and insights that continue to shape my aspirations and goals for the future. The internship's focus on addressing environmental disparities in Baltimore's marginalized communities was an eye-opener. From the outset, I was deeply engaged in researching the disproportionate impacts of air pollution and the urban heat island effect on these communities. Armed with a Purple Air monitor and a fervent desire to make a difference, I ventured into the neighborhoods most affected by these environmental challenges. The process of collecting data, analyzing it, and understanding the stark realities faced by these communities was both humbling and enlightening. One of the most impactful aspects of this experience was the community engagement component. Beyond the data and research, I had the opportunity to interact directly with the residents, hearing their stories and witnessing their resilience. These interactions underscored the profound connection between environmental issues and social justice, reinforcing my belief that sustainable solutions must be inclusive and equitable. It was through these conversations that I learned the importance of empathy, active listening, and community involvement in driving meaningful change. This internship also challenged me to step into a leadership role. I organized community meetings, collaborated with local organizations, and spearheaded initiatives aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing support for sustainable practices. Leading these efforts required not only technical expertise but also the ability to inspire and unite people towards a common goal. This experience taught me the significance of perseverance, adaptability, and the power of collective action. It was a crash course in project management, team coordination, and strategic planning—skills that are essential for any future endeavor. The journey was not without its challenges. As someone new to the field, I faced numerous obstacles that tested my resolve and adaptability. Navigating the complexities of environmental data collection, understanding the intricate socio-political dynamics, and earning the trust of community members were all significant hurdles. There were moments of doubt and frustration, but each obstacle I overcame strengthened my determination and resilience. These experiences were filled with firsts—from leading community engagements to presenting my findings to a global audience. One of the crowning moments of my internship was the opportunity to present my research findings to professionals from around the globe. This was an immensely rewarding experience, as it not only validated the hard work and dedication I had poured into the project but also allowed me to share the critical issues affecting Baltimore's marginalized communities with a wider audience. To my astonishment and joy, I was awarded the Best Research Award along with a stipend. This recognition was not just a personal triumph but a testament to the importance of addressing environmental justice and the impact one can have through dedicated effort and passion. The STEMcx Environmental Justice Internship was a profound learning journey that revealed much about my strengths and areas for growth. I discovered a resilience within myself that I had not fully recognized before. The ability to persist in the face of challenges, to find creative solutions, and to lead with empathy were qualities that emerged and flourished during this period. I also realized the immense satisfaction that comes from contributing to a cause greater than oneself. The experience reinforced my passion for environmental justice and my commitment to using my skills and knowledge to effect positive change. Looking ahead, my future aspirations are deeply intertwined with the lessons learned during this internship. I am determined to pursue a career in sustainable architecture and urban planning, with a focus on creating equitable and environmentally friendly living spaces. The internship experience highlighted the urgent need for sustainable solutions that address both environmental and social issues. I hope to continue working closely with communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. I envision developing affordable, resilient, and adaptable housing solutions that can withstand the impacts of climate change while providing a high quality of life for residents. Ultimately, I aspire to be an advocate for sustainable practices and environmental justice on a global scale. I want to leverage my education, skills, and experiences to influence policies and practices that drive positive change. Whether through innovative architectural designs, community-based projects, or policy advocacy, my mission is to create a more equitable and sustainable world for present and future generations.

Not only can we access the world at our fingertips, but engineers have the power to change the world that we live in. I want to be a part of that change. From a young age, I have been captivated by the possibilities within STEM fields, initially sparked by my participation in local programs like Girls Coding With Girls. This student-run initiative teaches young girls about computer science, and it inspired my early interest in engineering. As a senior in high school, I am now a lead mentor in the same program, and I am determined to inspire young girls to explore STEM, just as I was once inspired. The journey to where I am today has not always been easy, especially as a woman of color in tech spaces that are not always welcoming. However, seeing others who look like me and share my passions has reinforced my resolve to succeed and to prove that I am worthy of my place in this field. Engineering, with its broad array of categories and specializations, offers the opportunity to make significant, positive changes in the world. I am particularly drawn to environmental engineering, where I believe I can contribute to solving critical issues like the urban heat island effect. The summer before my senior year, I participated in an environmental justice internship that profoundly influenced my career path. I worked under the guidance of Dr. Francis, an associate professor of environmental engineering at George Washington University. This internship opened my eyes to the environmental and social injustices faced by minority communities in Baltimore City. Dr. Francis helped channel my anger and frustration into constructive problem-solving using engineering principles. During this internship, I gained hands-on experience using low-cost air quality sensors like PurpleAir monitors and AirBeams, applying data science techniques to interpret the data I collected. This experience solidified my passion for environmental engineering and my commitment to helping marginalized communities. As a minority, I recognize the importance of having engineers of color who can address problems from an insider's perspective. Even after the internship ended, my dedication to environmental engineering continued. I conducted independent research on air quality, sharing my findings with my school's engineering club. Our team presented our research to Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), and I was honored with an award for best research. This recognition further fueled my ambition to study at Carnegie Mellon University, where I hope to work on similar environmental justice issues with Pittsburgh residents. Engineering is about pushing boundaries and questioning established beliefs to create groundbreaking advancements. I am driven by the desire to be part of this transformative process, to build a world where technological advancements address critical issues and benefit everyone. My hands-on experience and continued efforts in environmental engineering have reinforced my decision to pursue this career path. I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to make a tangible difference in my community and beyond, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.