
Hobbies and interests
Music
Art
Piano
Violin
Drawing And Illustration
Painting and Studio Art
Reading
Writing
Songwriting
3D Modeling
Business And Entrepreneurship
Reading
Self-Help
Academic
Adventure
Design
I read books multiple times per month
Fei Feng
1x
Finalist
Fei Feng
1x
FinalistBio
My goal is to become a designer and entrepreneur who builds products that make everyday life feel easier, more joyful, and more human. I am actively launching and developing my own ideas, turning creative concepts into real products and experiences. Scholarship support will allow me to pursue higher education without adding financial strain to my multigenerational household, giving me the freedom to focus fully on learning, refining my skills, and growing as an entrepreneur.
I’m a senior at Cinco Ranch High School in Katy, Texas. I moved from California in sixth grade and now live with my parents, grandparents, and our dog. Growing up in a creative, design-driven household shaped how I think and problem-solve, and living in a multigenerational home has taught me responsibility, resilience, and the value of supporting one another’s goals.
At school, I’m involved in Orchestra, Technology Student Association, Chinese Club, and Art Club, where I help lead meetings, design presentations, and manage communication. I am also a member of National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, and National Technical Honor Society.
Outside of school, I design and launch my own products. I created Orbio, a board game that raised over $12,000 on Kickstarter and is moving toward wider distribution. I also co-created the Winking Mitten, sold on Amazon, and designed a violin chin pad to improve comfort for musicians.
With curiosity, persistence, and empathy, I aim to continue building meaningful products that connect people and create lasting impact.
Education
Cinco Ranch High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Design and Applied Arts
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
Career
Dream career field:
Consumer Goods
Dream career goals:
My long-term goal is to build my own business where I design, develop, and bring products to market—using creativity and hands-on problem-solving to create meaningful objects people connect with.
Managed social media for 100+ members; Organized cultural events and festivals, reaching 800+ students and families
National Art Honors Society2023 – 20252 yearsManaged social media for 100+ members; Organized cultural events and festivals, reaching 800+ students and families
National Chinese Honor Society2024 – 20251 yearRedesigned and maintained website; Managed online presence for 200+ members; Designed shirts worn by students, teachers, and alumni
Cinco Ranch High School Orchestra2022 – Present4 yearsDirected social media, growing following by 30%+ in a month; Led 10+ peers representing 100+ members; 1st place regional award for tensegrity structure
Technology Student Association2023 – Present3 yearsDesigned ergonomic chin rest addressing “neck mark” problem; Tested by 50+ violinists, advancing comfort through user-centered design
VPad - Ergonomic Violin Chin Pad2024 – 20251 yearPatented pet hair removal mitten; Sold 1,000+ units with 60+ Amazon reviews; Turned a chore into a functional, enjoyable task
Winking Mitten2022 – 20242 yearsPatented pet hair removal mitten; Sold 1,000+ units with 60+ Amazon reviews; Turned a chore into a functional, enjoyable task
Orbio2024 – 20251 yearContributed to 3+ product line ideations; Created graphics & photo edits for dog leash line; Marketing, office, & warehouse support
GPCA2022 – Present4 years
Sports
Volleyball
Intramural2020 – 20222 years
Research
Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies
Asian American Art and Culture Initiative — Member2024 – 2024
Arts
VASE
Visual Arts2023 – 2024Scholastic Art and Writing
Illustration2018 – 2024
Public services
Volunteering
Color in the Sky — Member2023 – 2025Volunteering
Blossoming in Nature — Member2021 – PresentVolunteering
Harmony of Music — Violinist2020 – 2024
Future Interests
Advocacy
Volunteering
Entrepreneurship
Richard Neumann Scholarship
One thing I created to solve a problem for myself and for others is Orbio, a tactile strategy board game designed to bring people back into shared, face-to-face connection. The problem I noticed was simple but growing: people spend more time together physically, yet feel less connected. Screens dominate family rooms, hangouts, and even game nights. I wanted to create something that pulled people into the same space, using their hands, focus, and presence, rather than devices.
Orbio began as a personal experiment. I sketched ideas at my desk, testing how physical movement, balance, and strategy could work together in a game that felt satisfying to play and watch. My goal was to design something that could be enjoyed in different ways, competitive or casual, so players of different ages and personalities could engage without feeling intimidated. As I built early prototypes, I realized Orbio wasn’t just a game; it was a shared experience. People leaned in, talked, laughed, and reacted together. That confirmed I was solving the right problem.
Turning Orbio into a real product was far more challenging than I expected. I spent months refining the rules, redesigning components, and testing gameplay repeatedly. Pieces didn’t work the way I imagined. Rules confused players. Feedback forced me to rethink what I thought was “finished.” As a high school student, I had to learn new software, research materials, and communicate with manufacturers on my own. Many times, progress felt slow or overwhelming, but each setback taught me how to refine an idea instead of abandoning it.
Eventually, I launched Orbio on Kickstarter. That step required courage because I was sharing something deeply personal with the world. The campaign raised over $12,000 from backers across multiple countries. That moment showed me that Orbio solved a problem others felt too: people wanted meaningful, screen-free ways to connect. Still, crowdfunding was only the beginning.
If I had the funding and resources to take Orbio further, my plan would focus on three main areas: production, marketing, and product improvement.
First, production. Additional funding would allow me to manufacture Orbio at a higher and more consistent quality. This includes refining materials for durability, improving component precision, and producing at a larger scale to reduce per-unit cost. It would also allow me to develop improved packaging that protects the game, communicates its value clearly, and is environmentally responsible.
Second, marketing and exposure. Orbio currently relies heavily on word-of-mouth and organic interest. With proper resources, I would invest in professional photography, video demonstrations, and outreach to board game reviewers, educators, and family-focused retailers. I would also attend more game conventions and expos to demo Orbio in person. Seeing people play is one of Orbio’s strongest selling points, and increased exposure would allow more people to experience it firsthand.
Third, product improvement and expansion. With more resources, I would continue playtesting and refining Orbio based on user feedback. This includes adjusting rules for accessibility, creating expansion packs or alternative play modes, and exploring classroom or therapy-friendly versions that encourage focus, spatial thinking, and collaboration. I want Orbio to grow thoughtfully without losing its original purpose.
Orbio started small, but it carries a big goal: helping people reconnect through play. With the right funding and support, I believe Orbio can move from a student-led project into a meaningful product on store shelves and in homes around the world. More than a game, it’s my answer to a modern problem and a commitment to designing experiences that bring people together.
Tebra Laney Hopson All Is Well Scholarship
I intend to pursue a college degree in industrial and product design because it allows me to combine creativity, problem-solving, and empathy to improve everyday life. Design, to me, is not just about how something looks, but about how it functions, how it makes people feel, and how thoughtfully it serves human needs.
My interest in design began at home. Growing up in a family-run design business, I was exposed early to brainstorming, prototyping, packaging, and shipping products. These experiences taught me that behind every object is a series of decisions that shape how people interact with it. Watching ideas turn into tangible products sparked my curiosity and showed me the power of design to create meaningful impact.
Over time, I began applying these ideas independently. I designed and launched original projects, including a kinetic board game that I developed from concept to prototype and successfully funded on Kickstarter. I also created consumer products that addressed everyday problems, such as a pet-fur collecting mitten and a redesigned violin chin pad based on my own experience as a musician. Through these projects, I learned how design thinking, iteration, and user feedback turn abstract ideas into practical solutions.
I am seeking a degree in industrial and product design because I want to strengthen both my technical skills and my understanding of human-centered design. College will provide structured training in materials, manufacturing processes, ergonomics, and sustainability areas that are essential to creating responsible, lasting products. I am especially interested in learning how thoughtful design choices can reduce waste, improve usability, and create an emotional connection between people and the objects they use daily.
Beyond technical knowledge, I value design as a way of thinking. Studying design will allow me to collaborate across disciplines, learn from diverse perspectives, and develop solutions that are informed by history, culture, and real human behavior. I want to be challenged creatively and intellectually, and to grow as a designer who considers both function and meaning.
Ultimately, my goal is to build a design-driven company that creates thoughtful, playful, and functional products and objects people didn’t know they needed but grow to love. I seek this degree not only to refine my abilities, but to gain the responsibility, perspective, and discipline needed to lead with intention. By pursuing industrial and product design, I hope to use creativity as a tool for positive, lasting impact in people’s everyday lives through my contributions.
Spark the Change Scholarship
Entrepreneurship, to me, is not just about building a business. It’s about creating something that serves people, strengthens community, and brings value beyond profit. I plan to give back to my community through entrepreneurship by designing products and experiences that make everyday life easier, more connected, and more joyful.
My long-term academic goal is to study industrial or product design, where I can build a strong foundation in human-centered design, engineering thinking, and problem-solving. I want to deeply understand how materials, form, systems, and user experience come together to create products people genuinely rely on. Beyond school, my career goal is to start my own design-driven company that creates thoughtful, accessible products for everyday use. I’m especially interested in products that reduce stress in daily routines, encourage face-to-face connection, and bring moments of play into people’s lives. I believe businesses can be successful while still being empathetic, community-oriented, and intentional about impact.
I’ve already begun using entrepreneurship as a way to give back. In high school, I created Orbio, a tactile strategy board game designed to bring people together away from screens. I handled the entire process, from early sketches and prototypes to playtesting, manufacturing conversations, and launching it on Kickstarter. The campaign raised over $12,000 from backers around the world. Seeing families, friends, and even strangers gather around Orbio reminded me that entrepreneurship can create shared experiences and genuine connections. Orbio wasn’t just a product; it became a way for people to slow down, interact, and enjoy being present with one another.
I’ve also given back through design and leadership in my school and local community. As an officer in clubs like TSA, Chinese Club, and Orchestra, I help organize meetings, create visual materials, guide younger students, and encourage participation. I use my design skills to make information clearer, events more welcoming, and students feel confident sharing their ideas. Through orchestra and community performances, I’ve seen how creativity can comfort and uplift others, especially when shared with seniors and local audiences.
As I continue my entrepreneurial journey, I plan to reinvest my skills and resources back into the community. This includes mentoring younger students interested in design or entrepreneurship, collaborating with local organizations, and creating products that are affordable, sustainable, and inclusive. I want my future company to value community feedback, ethical production, and social responsibility, not just growth.
Giving back through entrepreneurship means listening closely, designing with care, and using creativity to solve real problems. I want to build something that reflects gratitude for the support I’ve received and creates opportunities, joy, and connection for others.
David Foster Memorial Scholarship
One high school teacher who deeply influenced me and changed how I approach my life is my art history and studio art teacher, Mrs. Kuhn. I entered her classroom expecting to learn techniques and timelines, but I left with something far more lasting: confidence in my ideas and permission to explore who I am creatively without holding back.
Mrs. Kuhn taught both studio art and art history, and the way she connected the two fundamentally changed how I see design. In studio art, she encouraged experimentation and risk-taking. She never pushed us toward what was “safe” or visually pleasing. Instead, she asked questions—why this form, why this material, what are you trying to say? Those questions pushed me to think beyond aesthetics and consider intention, meaning, and impact. I learned that creativity isn’t about perfection, but about honesty and curiosity.
In art history, Mrs. Kuhn helped me understand that art and design do not exist in isolation. She guided us to dive deeply into historical context, symbolism, and cultural influence. Through her lessons, I began to see how movements, objects, and ideas evolve in response to human needs and emotions. This perspective shaped my interest in design, showing me that good design is rooted in understanding people, history, and purpose—not just visual appeal.
What made Mrs. Kuhn especially impactful was the environment she created. Her classroom felt safe to be different. She embraced unconventional ideas and encouraged us to lean into what made our work unique, even if it felt strange or unfinished. When I doubted myself or hesitated to pursue an idea that felt “too weird,” she reminded me that originality often lives outside comfort. Her encouragement helped me stop filtering my ideas and start trusting my instincts.
Because of Mrs. Kuhn, I became more confident not only as an artist but as a person. She empowered me to explore new mediums, challenge my own limits, and speak openly about my ideas. Her belief in my potential gave me the courage to try things I once would have avoided, whether that meant experimenting creatively, sharing my work, or pursuing ambitious projects.
Mrs. Kuhn changed how I approach life by teaching me to value depth over approval and curiosity over fear. She showed me that creativity is not just a skill, but a way of thinking and living. The confidence she helped me build continues to guide my choices, reminding me to embrace exploration, take risks, and create with intention. Her influence remains a foundation of who I am today.
Future Green Leaders Scholarship
Sustainability should be a priority in my field because design shapes how people live, consume, and interact with the world every day. Every product, material choice, and system decision carries environmental consequences. As a designer, I believe it is my responsibility to think beyond aesthetics and function and consider how my work affects the planet, both immediately and long term. Design has the power to reduce waste, encourage mindful consumption, and create solutions that work in harmony with the environment rather than against it.
What inspires me about sustainable design is that it asks deeper questions. It is not just about making something new, but about asking whether something needs to exist at all, how long it will last, and what happens when it reaches the end of its life. I am drawn to the challenge of designing products that are durable, repairable, and thoughtfully made. Sustainability, to me, is closely tied to empathy. It requires understanding not only users, but also the broader systems our designs live within, including natural resources, labor, and future generations.
In my own projects, I have already begun thinking about sustainability in small but meaningful ways. When designing products or games, I consider material efficiency, packaging reduction, and how an object can serve multiple purposes or last longer. I am especially interested in how playful, well-designed objects can encourage people to keep and care for what they own instead of constantly replacing it. I believe that emotional attachment to objects is an underrated part of sustainability. When people value something, they are less likely to treat it as disposable.
In the future, I hope to help reduce environmental impact by designing products and systems that prioritize longevity and responsibility. I want to explore sustainable materials, modular design, and manufacturing processes that minimize waste. I am also interested in how design can educate without lecturing, gently guiding people toward more sustainable habits through intuitive choices and thoughtful interactions. Whether it is through everyday products, shared experiences, or community-focused designs, I want sustainability to feel accessible rather than overwhelming.
Ultimately, I see sustainability as an opportunity, not a limitation. It challenges designers to be more creative, more intentional, and more aware. By integrating sustainability into my profession, I hope to contribute to a future where good design supports both people and the planet. I want my work to reflect care, responsibility, and optimism, showing that it is possible to create meaningful, joyful experiences while also protecting the world we live in.
Matthew E. Minor Memorial Scholarship
I am a high school senior from Katy, Texas, and a student who has always been deeply involved in my school and community. Much of who I am comes from creating, listening, and showing up for others. Through music, design, and leadership roles, I’ve learned how important it is to build environments where people feel safe, supported, and confident expressing themselves.
Community involvement has been a constant part of my life. I am an orchestra student and have performed for others in community settings, including senior centers, where I saw firsthand how shared experiences can bring comfort and connection. I also serve in leadership roles in organizations such as Technology Student Association and Chinese Club, where I help lead meetings, design visuals, manage communication, and support younger members. In these spaces, I try to be someone others can approach with questions, ideas, or concerns. Creating a welcoming atmosphere matters to me, especially for students who may feel unsure about speaking up.
As I prepare to enter higher education, financial need is a real consideration for my family. College costs, including tuition, housing, materials, and transportation, create pressure that scholarships help relieve. Financial support would allow me to focus more fully on my education and growth, rather than limiting opportunities due to cost. It would also help me pursue internships, design projects, and community-based work that may not always be paid but are essential to learning.
Keeping children and youth safe in my community, both in person and online, begins with awareness and empathy. In clubs and group settings, I make an effort to include everyone and watch for students who seem isolated or uncomfortable. If I notice someone being excluded or treated unfairly, I try to step in by offering support, redirecting the conversation, or encouraging respectful behavior. Online, I am mindful of how words and images can impact others. I promote positive communication through social media content I create for school organizations and encourage peers to think before posting or sharing hurtful messages.
I believe safety starts with kindness, visibility, and trust. By being present, listening, and setting a positive example, I try to help create spaces where young people feel protected, respected, and valued. As I move forward into higher education, I plan to continue supporting my community while growing into someone who leads with empathy and responsibility.
Looking ahead, I want to continue strengthening these values through my education and future career. I am especially interested in using design and creativity as tools to promote confidence, inclusion, and emotional well-being for young people. Whether through designing products, experiences, or community initiatives, I hope to create things that make people feel understood rather than judged. I also want to stay involved in mentorship and outreach, supporting younger students as they navigate challenges both in school and online. By combining creativity with responsibility, I aim to contribute to communities where kindness is practiced daily, differences are respected, and young people feel empowered to be themselves safely both in person and in digital spaces.
Beatrice Diaz Memorial Scholarship
I am a high school senior from Katy, Texas, and I have grown up surrounded by creativity, curiosity, and making. I live with my parents, grandparents, and our dog, and as an only child, I learned early on how to turn observation and imagination into comfort and motivation. My background has shaped me into someone who notices details, asks questions, and finds meaning in creating things that bring people together.
Both of my parents work in design, and their influence deeply shaped the way I see the world. Our home was often filled with sketches, prototypes, packaging samples, and conversations about how to improve everyday objects. I watched ideas move from concept to product, and that process fascinated me. It taught me that design is not just about appearance, but about problem-solving, empathy, and understanding how people interact with the world around them. Because of this, I grew up constantly rethinking objects and experiences, always asking how something could work better, feel better, or bring more joy.
My interest in industrial and product design comes from this mindset. I enjoy working hands-on, experimenting, and refining ideas through testing and feedback. In high school, I pursued personal design projects that allowed me to explore this passion independently. I created Orbio, a tactile strategy board game designed to bring people together through physical play and shared focus. Developing it taught me how to prototype, iterate, listen to users, and commit to an idea even when the process became difficult. The game later raised over $12,000 through a global Kickstarter campaign, which showed me that thoughtful design can resonate with people far beyond my immediate community.
I have also been deeply involved in music and school organizations. As a longtime orchestra student, I learned discipline, collaboration, and patience. Through clubs like Technology Student Association, Chinese Club, and art-related organizations, I helped lead meetings, design visuals, and support other students. These experiences strengthened my communication skills and reinforced my belief that creativity thrives best in shared spaces.
Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to build my own design-driven company that creates meaningful products for everyday life. I want to design objects and experiences that reduce stress, spark joy, and encourage connection. I am especially interested in how design can influence emotions and behavior in subtle but powerful ways. Higher education will give me the technical foundation, critical thinking skills, and collaborative experience needed to grow from a passionate maker into a thoughtful designer and entrepreneur.
Ultimately, I hope to use my education to create work that feels human, intentional, and accessible. Design, to me, is a way of caring for people. It is how I express curiosity, solve problems, and contribute something positive to the world.
Monroe Justice and Equality Memorial Scholarship
Improving relationships between law enforcement agencies and the African American population in the United States requires intentional effort, accountability, and long-term commitment. Decades of strained interactions, historical injustice, and unequal treatment have created deep mistrust. Rebuilding this trust cannot be achieved through surface-level reforms; it requires consistent actions that demonstrate fairness, transparency, and respect.
One of the most effective ways law enforcement agencies can strengthen relationships with African American communities is through genuine community-based policing. Officers who are actively engaged in neighborhoods outside of enforcement situations are more likely to build trust and mutual understanding. Attending community events, mentoring youth, and participating in neighborhood meetings allow officers to be seen as individuals rather than symbols of authority. When community members know officers by name and have positive interactions unrelated to crime, fear and suspicion can gradually be replaced with familiarity and respect.
Transparency and accountability are equally essential. Clear procedures for reporting misconduct, consistent use of body cameras, and independent review boards help ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions. When misconduct occurs, open communication and timely consequences are necessary to demonstrate integrity. Communities are more willing to cooperate with law enforcement when they believe that justice applies equally to everyone, including those in positions of power. Acknowledging mistakes and taking responsibility shows commitment to improvement rather than defensiveness.
Training is another critical area for reform. Law enforcement agencies should prioritize ongoing education in de-escalation techniques, cultural competency, and implicit bias. Understanding historical context and systemic challenges faced by African American communities can help officers respond with greater empathy and awareness. De-escalation training, in particular, equips officers with tools to resolve conflicts peacefully and reduce the likelihood of unnecessary force. Training should be continuous and adaptive, reflecting the evolving needs of the communities officers serve.
In addition, collaboration with local organizations can play a meaningful role in improving relationships. Partnerships with schools, churches, and community groups allow law enforcement to work alongside trusted local leaders. These partnerships can help address root causes of crime, such as lack of resources or opportunities, rather than focusing solely on enforcement. When law enforcement is seen as a partner in community well-being rather than an external authority, trust is more likely to develop.
Finally, improving relationships requires listening. Law enforcement agencies must actively seek input from African American residents and be willing to act on feedback. Creating safe spaces for open dialogue allows community members to express concerns, share experiences, and participate in shaping solutions. When people feel heard and valued, cooperation and mutual respect grow.
Stronger relationships between law enforcement and African American communities are built through consistency, accountability, and empathy. By committing to meaningful engagement, transparent practices, and continuous learning, law enforcement agencies can help create safer communities rooted in trust and shared responsibility.
Dream BIG, Rise HIGHER Scholarship
Education has never been just a requirement for me. It has been a compass, helping me understand who I am, what I value, and how I want to move through the world. Through learning, I discovered not only my passion for design and entrepreneurship, but also my belief that thoughtful creation can improve lives. My education has shaped my goals by giving me direction, confidence, and the courage to dream beyond what once felt possible.
I grew up in a household where education and creativity were deeply intertwined. My parents immigrated to the United States and built their own design business from the ground up. I watched them sketch ideas at the kitchen table, package products late into the night, and problem-solve through financial uncertainty and language barriers. They didn’t have guarantees, but they had persistence. From them, I learned that education does not only happen in classrooms. It happens through curiosity, resilience, and the willingness to learn from failure. Seeing how knowledge could turn ideas into reality shaped my belief that learning is a powerful tool for independence and growth.
As I progressed through school, education helped me realize that my love for creativity could become something meaningful and impactful. I wasn’t just interested in making things look good. I cared about how things worked, how they felt to use, and how they brought people together. That curiosity led me to design my own projects, including a tactile strategy board game called Orbio. What began as sketches in a notebook slowly turned into prototypes, playtests, rule revisions, and eventually a Kickstarter campaign. Through that process, I taught myself design software, communication skills, and time management, all while balancing schoolwork and responsibilities as a high school student.
Launching Orbio was one of the most challenging and transformative educational experiences of my life. I faced moments of doubt, rejection, and exhaustion. There were times when prototypes failed, rules didn’t make sense, or feedback was difficult to hear. But education had already taught me how to persevere. I learned how to reflect instead of quit, how to revise instead of abandon an idea, and how to keep moving forward even when the outcome was uncertain. When Orbio raised over $12,000 from backers around the world, it wasn’t just financial support. It was validation that learning, persistence, and belief could turn a fragile idea into something real.
Despite these accomplishments, pursuing higher education still comes with challenges. Like many students, I face financial uncertainty and the pressure of balancing ambition with practicality. Building projects, applying to colleges, and preparing for the future requires resources, time, and support. There were moments when I questioned whether my goals were realistic or whether I was reaching too far. But education has given me clarity. It showed me that obstacles do not disqualify dreams. They shape them.
Through my studies and experiences, I’ve learned that education is not only about personal success. It’s about contribution. I plan to study design and entrepreneurship so I can create products and experiences that make daily life more accessible, joyful, and human. I want to design tools that reduce stress, encourage connection, and invite people to slow down and engage with one another. My long-term goal is to build my own company that values purpose as much as profit and uses creativity to solve real problems.
I also hope to give back by mentoring younger students, especially those who may not yet see themselves as capable or creative. I know how powerful it is when someone believes in you early on. I want to be that source of encouragement for others, just as my parents, teachers, and mentors were for me. Education gave me the confidence to trust my voice, and I want to help others discover theirs.
The challenges I’ve faced have shaped my sense of purpose rather than limiting it. They taught me discipline, empathy, and responsibility. They showed me that success isn’t defined by how smooth the journey is, but by how committed you remain when things get hard. Education gave me structure when I felt uncertain and direction when the future felt overwhelming.
I believe deeply that who I am becoming matters just as much as where I am going. Through learning, I’ve grown into someone who is resilient, curious, and driven by purpose. With continued education, I hope to build a future rooted in independence, creativity, and service. This scholarship would not only support my academic journey, but also affirm the belief that perseverance and education can open doors to a brighter, more meaningful tomorrow.
Women in STEM Scholarship
I have always been driven by curiosity. I ask questions about how things work, why people interact with objects the way they do, and how small design decisions can quietly shape someone’s experience. For me, STEM is not just about technical skill, but about understanding systems, people, and possibilities. It is where logic meets creativity, and where ideas turn into solutions that can improve everyday life.
My interest in STEM grew naturally through design. I began noticing patterns in how objects are used and where frustration repeats. This curiosity led me to create Orbio, a tactile strategy board game designed to bring people together through focused, screen-free play. What started as sketches and rough prototypes became a real product through testing, iteration, and problem-solving. I taught myself digital modeling software, studied materials and manufacturing constraints, refined rules through data from playtesting, and communicated with manufacturers. Eventually, Orbio launched on Kickstarter and raised over $12,000 from backers around the world. This experience showed me that STEM skills can be human-centered and impactful, turning curiosity into something tangible that connects people across cultures.
Being a young woman interested in STEM has not always been easy. I have faced moments where my ideas were questioned or underestimated, especially when I cared deeply about details others saw as unimportant. Instead of discouraging me, these moments pushed me to become more confident in my thinking. I learned to defend my ideas with evidence, testing, and refinement. STEM gave me the tools to move beyond opinion and into proof. It taught me that persistence and iteration are just as important as inspiration.
My family has also shaped my path. My parents immigrated to the United States and built their own design business from the ground up. I grew up watching them sketch, prototype, solve problems, and adapt under pressure. They showed me that knowledge is powerful, but courage and curiosity are what turn knowledge into action. Seeing them navigate uncertainty taught me to approach challenges with resilience and optimism, values I carry into my own work.
Through STEM, I want to continue creating solutions that support people in their daily lives. I am especially interested in designing products and systems that reduce stress, encourage connection, and make complex interactions feel intuitive. I hope to pursue higher education in industrial design, where I can deepen my understanding of engineering principles, human behavior, and technology while collaborating with others who are equally driven to make a difference.
This scholarship represents more than financial support. It represents belief in women who are ready to lead, question, and build. I want to be part of a community of women who use STEM not only to innovate, but to uplift others. By sharing knowledge, mentoring younger students, and creating work rooted in empathy, I hope to contribute to a future where women in STEM are confident, visible, and empowered to shape the world around them.
Valerie Rabb Academic Scholarship
I am a high school senior planning to pursue industrial design because I believe design has the power to shape how people experience the world in quiet but meaningful ways. I have always been sensitive to small details that others overlook, how an object feels in your hand, how a system communicates instructions, or how a poorly designed interaction can add stress to an otherwise simple moment. Over time, I realized that these details matter because they affect how people feel. Design, to me, is a form of care. It is a way to listen to people and respond with intention, empathy, and creativity.
This belief took shape through Orbio, a tactile strategy board game I designed from the ground up. Orbio began as a small idea at my desk, fueled by curiosity and a desire to create something that pulled people away from screens and back into shared physical space. I wanted to design a game that encouraged focus, laughter, and connection, something people could gather around and feel present together. Turning Orbio into a real product required persistence and patience. I spent months sketching concepts, building prototypes, rewriting rules, and testing gameplay with friends and family. Many versions failed. Pieces did not fit, rules felt confusing, and progress was slow. Still, I kept refining because I believed in what Orbio could offer.
Eventually, Orbio launched on Kickstarter and raised over $12,000 from backers around the world. Seeing people from different countries believe in my idea showed me that thoughtful design can create community across distance. That experience taught me how design can bring people together, even when they have never met. It also showed me the responsibility that comes with creating something others trust and support.
Building Orbio as a high school student came with challenges. I balanced schoolwork with long nights spent learning new software, communicating with manufacturers, and refining prototypes. There were moments of self-doubt when progress felt overwhelming or when feedback was difficult to hear. I learned to slow down, reflect, and view setbacks as part of the process rather than signs of failure. Through this journey, I developed discipline, resilience, and confidence in my ability to follow through on ideas.
My family’s story deeply shaped this mindset. My parents immigrated to the United States and built their own design business from the ground up. I grew up watching them solve problems creatively, persist through uncertainty, and support others through their work. Their example taught me that success comes from consistency, humility, and belief in your purpose, even when resources are limited or outcomes are unclear.
I plan to study industrial design so I can continue creating work that improves everyday life. Through higher education, I hope to strengthen my technical skills, deepen my understanding of human behavior, and learn how to design responsibly at a larger scale. I want to build products and experiences that reduce stress, encourage connection, and make people feel seen. I also hope to give back by mentoring younger students and supporting others who are still learning to trust their ideas.
Using my education, I want to contribute to a world where design feels thoughtful, accessible, and human. The challenges I have faced taught me how to listen, adapt, and persist. Those lessons will guide how I collaborate, lead, and create as I work toward making a positive impact on my community and beyond.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
Ava Wood Stupendous Love Scholarship
1) Kindness in Action
One of the most meaningful ways I’ve practiced kindness has been through patience and presence rather than grand gestures. During orchestra performances at senior centers, I noticed that many residents stayed after concerts just to talk. Some shared stories about their lives, others simply wanted someone to listen. At first, I didn’t realize how important those moments were. I thought the music was a gift. Over time, I learned that staying, listening, and responding with care mattered just as much.
There was one performance where an elderly woman held my hand and told me the music reminded her of her youth. She spoke slowly, carefully choosing her words. I stayed with her even when others were packing up. That moment taught me that kindness doesn’t always mean fixing something. Sometimes it means offering time and attention without rushing.
That same mindset carried into my work at school. When younger students joined clubs or creative projects, feeling unsure of themselves, I made a point to guide them patiently. I helped explain tasks, listened to their ideas, and reassured them when they doubted their abilities. I remembered how intimidating it felt to step into creative spaces for the first time and how much encouragement mattered.
These moments were important because they reshaped how I define kindness. It’s not about recognition. It’s about showing up consistently, making people feel heard, and creating a sense of safety. That lesson continues to guide how I interact with others, reminding me that small acts of care can leave a lasting impact.
2) Creating Connection
Creating connections has always been at the center of what I do, especially through design and music. One of the clearest examples is Orbio, the board game I designed to bring people together through face-to-face play. I noticed how often people sat side by side on their phones, even when they were technically “together.” I wanted to design something that encouraged eye contact, shared focus, and laughter in the same space.
As Orbio developed, I tested it with friends, family members of different ages, and people I barely knew. Watching strangers slowly relax, lean in, and engage with each other showed me how design can lower social barriers. When Orbio later raised over $12,000 from backers around the world, it became clear that the desire for connection was shared far beyond my own community.
Beyond design, I’ve worked to create belonging through leadership roles in school clubs. I help plan meetings, design materials, and support members who may feel hesitant to speak up. I try to be the person who invites others into conversations and encourages quieter voices to share ideas. I believe inclusion starts with making people feel comfortable enough to participate.
Whether through a game, a performance, or a club meeting, my goal is always the same: to create spaces where people feel welcomed, seen, and connected. That belief shapes how I contribute to my community and how I hope to continue bringing people together in the future.
Be A Vanessa Scholarship
I plan to use my education in industrial design to make the world a better place by creating products and experiences that bring people together, reduce everyday stress, and make life feel more human. I believe design has quite a power. It shapes how people interact, how they feel in shared spaces, and how supported they feel in daily routines. Through my education, I want to learn how to design thoughtfully, responsibly, and with empathy so that what I create serves real people and real needs.
I’ve already seen how design can create a positive impact through my board game, Orbio, which I designed to encourage face-to-face connection and play. What began as a small idea turned into a global project when Orbio raised over $12,000 from backers around the world. Watching families, friends, and even strangers gather around the game showed me how a simple, well-designed experience can spark joy and connection. In college, I hope to expand this mindset by learning user-centered design, materials, and systems thinking so I can create products that improve everyday life on a larger scale.
My desire to use design for good is deeply shaped by my family’s story. My parents immigrated to the United States and built their own design business from the ground up. They faced language barriers, financial uncertainty, and moments when people underestimated them. Despite this, they persisted in handling everything themselves, from sketching ideas and designing products to packaging and shipping orders late into the night. Growing up, I watched their resilience, creativity, and optimism in the face of difficulty. They taught me that adversity doesn’t disappear through avoidance, but through patience, effort, and belief in what you’re building.
That lesson has stayed with me. When my own projects became challenging, when prototypes failed, plans changed, or progress felt slow, I thought of my parents and kept going. Their example taught me to view obstacles as part of growth, not a reason to stop. It also showed me the importance of using skills not just for personal success, but to contribute positively to others.
Through my education, I hope to honor that lesson by designing with intention and care. Whether it’s creating tools that foster connection, objects that reduce stress, or experiences that make people feel seen and supported, I want my work to improve lives in meaningful ways. By combining creativity, resilience, and education, I hope to contribute to a world that feels more connected, thoughtful, and kind.
Ward Green Scholarship for the Arts & Sciences
I plan to study industrial design, a field that teaches how ideas can become meaningful, usable objects that shape everyday life. I’m drawn to industrial design because it blends creativity with responsibility. It asks designers to consider not only how something looks, but how it feels to use, who it serves, and how it affects people over time. For me, design is a way to care for others by paying attention to small details that can make daily life easier, more joyful, or more connected.
I’ve already seen the impact design can have on a community through my own project, Orbio, a tactile strategy board game I created as a high school student. Orbio began as a simple idea at my desk, but through months of prototyping, testing, and refining, it became something much larger. When I launched Orbio on Kickstarter, it raised over $12,000 from backers around the world—people from different countries, backgrounds, and ages who believed in the idea of a game that brings people together. That experience showed me how design can build community far beyond physical distance. Orbio wasn’t just a product; it became a shared experience that connected families, friends, and strangers through play.
Watching people gather around Orbio, laughing, focusing, and interacting face-to-face, helped me understand the role design can play in addressing modern disconnection. In a world dominated by screens and isolation, I want to design experiences that encourage presence, interaction, and human connection. Through industrial design, I hope to create products that foster togetherness, whether in homes, schools, or public spaces.
In college, I want to deepen my understanding of user-centered design, materials, sustainability, and systems thinking so I can design responsibly for real communities. I’m especially interested in everyday objects and routines, tools people rely on daily but rarely question. Improving these small moments can have a large collective impact. Whether it’s reducing stress, improving accessibility, or making shared spaces more welcoming, I believe thoughtful design can quietly improve quality of life.
Beyond product creation, I plan to use my design education to give back through collaboration, leadership, and mentorship. I want to work with people from different disciplines and backgrounds, learning from their perspectives while contributing my own. I also hope to mentor younger students and creatives, especially those who may not yet believe their ideas are worth pursuing. Having people believe in Orbio and in me taught me how powerful encouragement can be, and I want to pass that support forward.
Ultimately, I see industrial design as a way to serve the broader community with empathy and intention. I want to use what I learn to create things that help people feel more connected, supported, and understood. By combining education, creativity, and a commitment to impact, I hope to design work that not only functions well but also strengthens the communities it touches. What I learn in school with my passion for creativity and community, I hope to create work that not only functions well, but also makes people feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Jessie Koci Future Entrepreneurs Scholarship
I plan to study industrial design, a field that sits at the intersection of creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application. I chose this field because it teaches how ideas move from concept to reality; how to design thoughtfully, test rigorously, and build things that people actually use and care about. For me, higher education is not separate from entrepreneurship; it is the foundation that allows creative ideas to become sustainable, meaningful businesses. Industrial design trains both the mind and the hands, equipping me with the technical skills, user-centered thinking, and discipline required to build products responsibly and successfully.
I have planned an entrepreneurial career because creating something of my own feels deeply personal and purposeful. I am the creator of Orbio, a tactile strategy board game I designed from scratch as a high school student. What began as sketches at my desk grew into months of prototyping, playtesting, and refining. I taught myself new software, navigated manufacturing conversations, and learned how to communicate my vision clearly. Orbio eventually launched on Kickstarter and raised over $12,000 from backers around the world, and it later earned the Most Marketable Award at the Young Inventor Challenge in Chicago, where I met publishers and learned how products move toward store shelves. This journey showed me that entrepreneurship is about commitment, patience, and choosing to keep going when things don’t work the first, or…the tenth time.
I believe I will be successful in my business endeavors because I understand what many people overlook: persistence matters more than talent, and learning matters more than perfection. Many aspiring entrepreneurs quit when progress slows or feedback becomes uncomfortable. My experience taught me to treat setbacks as part of the process, not a signal to stop. I learned to listen carefully, revise thoughtfully, and take responsibility for mistakes instead of avoiding them. I also know how to start small without thinking small, focusing on quality, intention, and long-term growth rather than shortcuts.
Higher education will help me strengthen this mindset by giving me the structure, mentorship, and technical foundation to scale ideas responsibly. I don’t see college as a detour from entrepreneurship, but as the place where I will sharpen my judgment, expand my perspective, and learn how to build businesses that last.
To me, a successful life is not defined only by profit or recognition. Success means creating work that brings people together, solves real problems, and reflects care for others. It means building something I believe in, supporting my community, and continuing to grow as both a creator and a person. Through education, entrepreneurship, and resilience, I hope to build a career and a life that feels intentional, impactful, and meaningful.
Start Small, Dream BIG Scholarship
I am a high school student and the creator of Orbio, a tactile strategy board game that grew from a small, personal idea into something I now dream of sharing with the world. Orbio began quietly, at my desk, with sketches and curiosity. I wanted to create a game that pulled people away from screens and back into the same space, something physical, focused, and meaningful. I imagined people leaning in, laughing, concentrating, and feeling present together. At first, Orbio was just that: an idea I believed in, even before I knew how to make it real.
Turning Orbio into a real game required more persistence than I ever expected. I spent months sketching concepts, building rough prototypes, rewriting rules, and testing gameplay over and over again. Many versions didn’t work. Pieces didn’t fit. Rules were confusing. Feedback was sometimes hard to hear. As a high school student, I had to teach myself how to push through those moments instead of giving up. I learned new software, navigated manufacturing conversations, and practiced communicating my vision clearly. There were nights I felt stuck or overwhelmed, but I kept going because Orbio mattered to me. I was learning how to commit to an idea and see it through.
Launching Orbio on Kickstarter was one of the most intimidating steps I’ve ever taken. Putting something I worked so hard on into the world meant accepting the risk of failure. Still, I believed in Orbio’s purpose. When the campaign raised over $12,000 from backers around the world, I felt an incredible mix of pride, relief, and gratitude. That belief carried me further, earning me an invitation to the Young Inventor Challenge in Chicago, where Orbio won the Most Marketable Award. There, I met publishers, received professional feedback, and learned how ideas move from prototypes to real shelves. Those experiences showed me that Orbio had a life beyond my own hands.
Orbio exists to create connections. I designed it so players of different ages and personalities could enjoy it together, whether they approach it competitively or playfully. Watching families, friends, and strangers gather around Orbio has been the most rewarding part of this journey. Seeing people laugh, focus, and engage reminded me of why I started. Still, bringing Orbio to store shelves is challenging, especially as a student with limited financial resources. Manufacturing, packaging, and distribution all require careful planning and support.
This scholarship would help me take Orbio to its next stage with intention and care. It would allow me to refine quality, expand reach, and continue developing Orbio without cutting corners. The phrase “Start Small, Dream Big” describes my journey perfectly. Orbio started as a small idea fueled by curiosity and grew through resilience, discipline, and belief. My dream is to see Orbio in homes, classrooms, and stores around the world as an experience that brings people together. Supporting Orbio means supporting a young creator committed to growth, perseverance, and sharing something joyful with others.
What makes Orbio especially meaningful to me is that I built it during a stage of life when most people are still discovering what they care about. Balancing schoolwork, responsibilities, and self-doubt while continuing to choose Orbio taught me discipline and belief in myself. I learned how to manage time, take responsibility for mistakes, and advocate for my ideas. Orbio showed me that age does not limit impact, and that patience, heart, and persistence can turn a fragile idea into something real. This journey shaped not only the creator I am becoming, but the person I am growing into.
FIAH Scholarship
I am a high school senior in Texas who has always believed that creativity can be a form of service. Whether through music, design, or leadership, I’ve learned that making a positive impact doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes it starts by noticing a small problem, caring enough to address it, and following through with intention.
I grew up immersed in creativity. I’ve spent years playing in my school orchestra, where I learned discipline, teamwork, and how individual effort contributes to something larger. Performing music, especially in community settings like senior centers, taught me how art can bring comfort, joy, and connection without needing words. Those moments showed me that impact often comes from showing up consistently and sharing what you love with others.
Design became another way for me to serve people. I’ve always been curious about how everyday objects affect our lives. That curiosity turned into real projects. I created the Winking Mitten, a pet fur–collecting mitten designed to make a tedious chore quicker and more enjoyable, which is now sold on Amazon. I also designed a violin chin pad to help musicians relieve discomfort that is often ignored. Most recently, I created a board game, Orbio, which raised over $12,000 through a global Kickstarter campaign. Watching people play it, laughing, competing, and connecting, confirmed for me that design has the power to bring people together.
Beyond creating products, I try to give back directly through leadership and service. I hold leadership roles in multiple school organizations, including orchestra, Technology Student Association, Chinese Club, and art-related groups. In these roles, I lead meetings, design presentations and promotional materials, manage social media, and help guide other students. I make it a priority to create welcoming spaces where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas, especially students who may feel unsure of themselves. Being someone others can turn to for support or encouragement is one of the responsibilities I value most.
Through my career, I plan to pursue industrial design and entrepreneurship to create products and experiences that make everyday life easier, more joyful, and more human. I want to design with empathy, focusing on small, repeated frustrations people face and turning them into thoughtful solutions. I also hope to mentor younger students and creatives, especially those who may not yet believe their ideas matter.
Higher education will allow me to gain the technical skills, perspective, and mentorship needed to expand this impact. This scholarship would not only help ease the financial burden of college but also support my goal of using creativity as a way to give back. I am driven by the belief that design, art, and service can work together to create meaningful change, and I am committed to carrying that belief into my future career and community.
Summer Chester Memorial Scholarship
I am who I am today because of the generosity, patience, and belief of others who showed up for me long before I knew what I was capable of. The support I’ve received has shaped not only my goals, but also the way I try to show up for people around me.
My parents have been my first and greatest example of giving. As immigrants who built their own design business from the ground up, they gave me more than opportunities; they gave me trust. They let me sit in on brainstorming sessions, test ideas, and learn through trial and error. They showed me that giving doesn’t always look like grand gestures. Sometimes it’s staying up late to help someone finish a project, listening without judgment, or believing in an idea when it’s still fragile. Their support taught me resilience, optimism, and the courage to keep going even when things feel uncertain.
Music has also been a powerful gift in my life. I’ve been part of my school orchestra for many years, and it became a space where I felt understood without having to explain myself. My teachers and peers gave me encouragement, discipline, and a sense of belonging. Through orchestra, I learned how individual effort contributes to something bigger than yourself. Performing for others, especially at senior centers through community programs, taught me how music can bring comfort, joy, and connection, even without words.
Outside of school, mentors and educators have given me spaces to explore creativity freely. In a weekly design class led by a former college professor and my father, I was encouraged to experiment, fail, and try again. That environment gave me confidence in my voice and taught me that learning is most powerful when it’s shared. Friends, teachers, and teammates have also given me trust by coming to me for ideas, help, or simply someone to listen. Being trusted in that way has meant more to me than I can express.
Because so much has been given to me, I feel a strong responsibility to pay it forward. I try to do this by creating spaces where others feel supported and seen. In my school clubs, I help lead meetings, design materials, and guide younger students so they feel confident participating. Through music and design, I look for ways to bring joy into people’s lives, whether it’s performing for seniors, designing projects that solve everyday problems, or encouraging peers when they doubt themselves.
In the future, I hope to continue giving back through both design and community involvement. I want to create products and experiences that make life feel more accessible, joyful, and human. I also hope to mentor younger students, especially those who may not yet believe their ideas matter. The kindness I’ve received taught me that believing in someone can change their path. Carrying that lesson forward is how I honor those who gave so much to me and how I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Harvest Scholarship for Women Dreamers
My “Pie in the Sky” dream is to build my own design-driven brand that creates products people didn’t know they needed, but quickly can’t live without. I want to design everyday objects that quietly improve how people feel, connect, and move through their lives. It’s a big dream, one that feels exciting and slightly out of reach, but it’s the vision that motivates everything I do.
This dream started with curiosity. I’ve always been drawn to the small moments others overlook: an object that feels uncomfortable, a routine that feels frustrating, or an interaction that could be more joyful. Growing up, I was surrounded by creativity and problem-solving, and I learned early on that design isn’t just about how something looks, but how it works for real people. I began seeing the world as full of possibilities waiting to be improved.
Over time, that curiosity turned into action. I designed the Winking Mitten, a pet fur–collecting mitten that transforms a daily chore into something functional and fun. I also created Orbio, a kinetic board game that brings people together through play. What began as sketches and prototypes became a fully launched Kickstarter campaign that raised over $12,000 with backers from around the world. Seeing people connect, laugh, and play something I created was a powerful moment. It showed me that design can build community, not just products.
Pursuing this dream hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced failed prototypes, unclear directions, and moments of self-doubt. There were times when people questioned why I cared so deeply about small details or playful ideas. But those challenges taught me resilience. I learned how to listen to feedback without losing my voice, how to refine ideas patiently, and how to keep going even when progress felt slow. Each setback strengthened my commitment to growth.
What I’ve learned is that big dreams don’t grow alone. Community and accountability matter. My ideas have always become stronger through collaboration, critique, and shared belief. I’ve seen firsthand how encouragement and support can turn something fragile into something real. That’s why I’m drawn to communities that value dreaming out loud and growing together.
To reach my “Pie in the Sky” goal, I know I’ll need to continue learning, taking risks, and surrounding myself with people who challenge and inspire me. I plan to pursue higher education in industrial design, build strong technical and creative foundations, and keep launching ideas even when success isn’t guaranteed. One day, I hope to lead a company that designs with empathy, joy, and intention, creating products that make everyday life feel a little lighter.
My dream may be ambitious, but I believe it’s worth chasing. I’m committed to growing through courage, creativity, and community, and I’m excited to keep taking the next steps forward.
Hines Scholarship
To me, going to college is about more than earning a degree—it’s about stepping into a space where I can grow creatively, intellectually, and personally. It’s the next step in becoming the designer, thinker, and change-maker I aspire to be. And if I’m honest, I probably wouldn’t have gotten to this point without my parents, who shaped the way I see the world and gave me the foundation I’m building on now.
Both of my parents have backgrounds in design, and their influence has been woven into nearly every aspect of my upbringing. Our home was never just a home—it was a creative space. I grew up watching my mom reorganize rooms not just for aesthetics, but for how people move through them. My dad was the type to take apart a drawer, redesign it, and put it back together in a way that made more sense. I used to think that was just how everyone operated, but I realize now how rare and valuable that environment was.
More than anything, they taught me that design is a way of thinking. It’s not just about what something looks like, but how it works, how it solves problems, and how it makes people feel. They encouraged me to create freely, to ask questions, and to try things even if I wasn’t sure how they’d turn out. Because of them, creativity became second nature to me—not just a skill, but a mindset.
Now, as I prepare to enter college, I see it as the launchpad for everything I want to do. I plan to study industrial design because I’m passionate about creating products and experiences that are both functional and meaningful. I want to design things that help people in their everyday lives—things that make them feel understood, empowered, or simply at ease. Whether it’s a tool that improves accessibility, a product that tells a story, or a space that brings comfort, I want my work to be rooted in empathy.
College will give me the chance to deepen my understanding of design while exploring other areas that connect to it—psychology, business, sustainability, and engineering. I want to collaborate with peers who see the world differently than I do, to learn from mentors who will challenge me, and to be in an environment that pushes me to grow.
Ultimately, what I’m trying to accomplish through college is to become a creator with both vision and purpose. I want to take the foundation my parents gave me and turn it into something uniquely my own—something that reflects my values, my identity, and the way I want to contribute to the world.
Going to college isn’t just about finding my place in the world—it’s about helping design a better one.
Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship
If you ask me who’s been the biggest influence in my life, I won’t hesitate for a second—my parents. Growing up, I was surrounded by creativity—not the kind you find in art museums, but the kind woven into everyday life. My mom and dad are both designers in their own ways. They didn’t just teach me how to draw or build—they showed me how to see the world differently.
My mom has an eye for form and function that borders on magical. She could look at a cluttered room and instantly visualize how to transform it. My dad, on the other hand, is a problem-solver to his core. He’s the type who would design a new drawer system just because the old one “wasn’t satisfying to use.” I grew up helping them build, paint, sketch, and brainstorm, often without realizing those small moments were shaping the way I thought. They weren’t just teaching me “how” to make things—they were teaching me why.
They showed me that good design doesn’t scream for attention—it quietly improves lives. That creativity isn’t just about art, it’s about curiosity. That’s the mindset I carry with me into every project, whether I’m creating illustrations, designing products, or exploring new ways to communicate ideas. It’s the reason I fell in love with industrial design and why I want to pursue it after graduation.
When I look at the future, I don’t just see a career—I see a mission. I want to use my artistic and design skills to create solutions that are not only beautiful, but meaningful. I believe in the kind of innovation that blends empathy with imagination—designing tools that help people feel heard, safe, and empowered. Whether it’s reimagining everyday objects, designing for accessibility, or creating visual systems that communicate across language and culture, I want my work to serve others in tangible ways.
What makes my artistic voice different is the fusion of perspectives I bring to the table. My identity as an Asian American artist, my background in hands-on design with my parents, and my passion for both emotional storytelling and technical functionality—all of that gives my work a layered, human-centered approach. I love mixing traditional art with digital tools, and I’m constantly experimenting with how materials, space, and narrative intersect. My art isn’t about a single aesthetic—it’s about creating experiences that speak to people.
Everything I’ve achieved so far—from placing in art competitions to building projects in school and community settings—traces back to the roots my parents gave me. Their design sensibility opened the door, but they also gave me something even more important: the confidence to walk through it as my own kind of creator.
Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
In middle school, I remember this one afternoon when I got home, dropped my actual backpack on the floor, and immediately laid down on the carpet. My mom asked if I was tired, and I said, “No, just a long day.” That answer became my go-to for years. I didn’t realize it then, but I had been carrying a different kind of backpack—an invisible one, filled with pressure, perfectionism, and anxiety. It weighed me down in ways I didn’t have the words for, and for a long time, I thought that was normal.
Back then, I believed that my value came from how well I performed. If I got straight A’s, joined every club, and always looked like I had it together, then I was doing life right. I ignored the tightness in my chest before exams, the constant fear of disappointing people, and the emotional burnout that hit me even after “good” days. I told myself I was just “being responsible,” that everyone felt this way. But slowly, that invisible backpack got heavier.
By the time I reached high school, I started noticing that the exhaustion wasn’t going away. I wasn’t just tired—I was drained. I lost interest in things I used to love, and I avoided people even when I craved connection. It was like my emotions had gone into grayscale. Still, I didn’t think of it as a mental health issue. I thought I was just failing at being strong.
The turning point came during a group project. I was paired with someone who, on the surface, seemed like the opposite of me—laid-back, less worried about grades, and totally open about their therapy sessions. One day, while we were working, I admitted offhandedly that I’d only slept four hours the night before because I was so anxious about getting everything “perfect.” They looked at me, not with judgment, but with gentle concern, and said, “You know that’s not normal, right? You don’t have to live like that.”
That simple sentence cracked something open. For the first time, I started questioning the weight I was carrying. I started reading about anxiety, talking with a school counselor, and gradually opening up to people I trusted. Naming what I was feeling didn’t make it disappear—but it made it manageable. It gave me tools. And most importantly, it gave me perspective.
My beliefs began to shift. I no longer see emotions as something to push through or ignore. I’ve learned that being vulnerable takes more courage than pretending you’re fine. That real strength is asking for help, setting boundaries, and honoring your own humanity. Mental health isn’t just something to think about when it’s “bad”—it’s part of everyday life, and it deserves care.
This experience changed how I show up in relationships too. I used to withdraw when I felt overwhelmed, worried that showing my “messy” side would push people away. But once I started being more open, I found deeper connections. My friendships became more authentic. I became a better listener, more empathetic, and more aware of what people don’t say out loud. I’ve learned to look for the invisible backpacks others might be carrying—and offer support instead of assumptions.
It’s also influenced how I see my future. I’ve always been drawn to creative fields—design, art, innovation—but now I know I want my career to do more than just impress. I want it to impact. Whether I end up in industrial design, user experience, or social innovation, I want my work to be human-centered and emotionally intelligent. I’m fascinated by the ways design can support mental well-being—through calming environments, intuitive tools, or inclusive spaces that make people feel seen and safe.
This isn’t just a career goal. It’s a mission. Because I know what it feels like to walk through the world carrying something heavy that no one else can see—and I want to be part of building a world that lightens that load for others.
Mental health isn’t something I’ve “overcome.” It’s something I work with, learn from, and live with. I still have hard days. But now I carry a different kind of backpack—one filled with self-awareness, resilience, and compassion. And that makes all the difference.
Cat Zingano Overcoming Loss Scholarship
I, a determined young girl, was ready to take on life as if nothing could stand in my way until November 1, 2022. That was the day my hero, my best friend, and my number one supporter passed into the arms of the angels. Living in a tiny one-story house in the burnt patches of grass in California, Zeus was there with me since the beginning. At the age of two, my parents adopted Zeus, a fat, gray, grumpy-looking fellow. People didn't see much in him except his angry expression, but truly he had the brightest soul. With the brightest smile and warm embraces, Zeus was my biggest inspiration. He was the reason for my passion for music, art, and my desire to show the world positivity and strength. Growing up as an only child, the only close companion I had was Zeus. As a child, I struggled with expressing myself. I felt confined to a small space, a space only carrying me and my little mind. I felt lonely and misunderstood. It wasn't until I found true love for someone and found true love in myself that I felt inspired and energized to feel free, to feel weird, and to feel like me. Finding the beauty in me, Zeus—the charm, the humor, the unconditional love—helped me discover the beauty within myself. He was there when I needed a friend, a confidant, and a source of unwavering support. Through his eyes, I saw the world differently—filled with possibilities and wonder. Zeus taught me to appreciate the small moments, to find joy in simple things, and to embrace my passions wholeheartedly. The day Zeus passed away was one of the most challenging days of my life. It felt as if a part of me was taken away, leaving a void that seemed impossible to fill. However, I soon realized that Zeus's spirit and the lessons he passed on to me would never fade. His influence continues to shape who I am and who I aspire to be. In honor of Zeus, I have committed myself to pursuing my dreams with vigor and determination. I want to inspire others as he inspired me, to spread positivity and strength through my music and art. I am passionate about using my talents to make a difference in the world. I aim to create art that evokes emotions and tells stories of resilience and hope. Through music, I want to connect with people on a deeper level, offering encouragement to those who need it. Zeus's memory drives me to push forward, to never give up, and to always strive for excellence. I am determined to honor his legacy by being the best version of myself, pursuing my passions, and spreading positivity wherever I go.