GianaA-V_Josh&Lisa.mov

1. Growing up as a child of Colombian immigrants in the US exposed me to diverse cultures and perspectives, shaping my identity and giving me insights into the challenges faced by immigrant communities. Witnessing my parents' resilience and connection to their roots taught me the importance of perseverance and gratitude. As a first-generation college student, I've overcome obstacles and seized opportunities, navigating the education system without the same support as my peers. This has fueled my determination to succeed and make the most of opportunities. My upbringing instilled a duty to use my education and experiences for positive change. I believe education is a powerful tool for empowerment and social change. With my background in computer science and journalism, I aim to advocate for marginalized communities, address injustices, and promote equity and inclusivity. I want to leverage technology for good, ensuring it benefits all of society. Through computer science and journalism, I hope to shed light on issues faced by marginalized communities and find innovative solutions. Whether through journalism, advocacy, or policy development, I aspire to catalyze positive societal transformation. I want to empower others to recognize their potential and create a more just and inclusive world by amplifying their voices. 2. STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, has the power to drive innovation and solve complex problems in various fields. This ability is what fuels my enthusiasm for STEM. What I find most thrilling about STEM is its potential to tackle global issues through technological progress and data-focused solutions. In today's interconnected world, technology plays a crucial role in addressing pressing global challenges. From climate change to healthcare, STEM offers innovative solutions that can make a significant impact. For instance, advancements in renewable energy technologies can help combat climate change, while breakthroughs in medical research can lead to the development of life-saving treatments and cures. Within the field of information technology, I am confident that I can have a significant influence by utilizing technology to push for social change and equality. Information technology encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity, among others. These areas provide ample opportunities to make a positive difference in society. One way I can contribute is by creating software applications that address societal needs. Whether it's developing educational tools for underprivileged communities or designing platforms that facilitate access to healthcare services, software applications have the potential to bridge gaps and improve the lives of individuals and communities. Advocating for digital accessibility and inclusion is another avenue where I can make a difference. In today's digital age, it is essential to ensure that technology is accessible to all, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. By promoting inclusive design principles and working towards eliminating barriers, I can help create a more equitable and inclusive society. Furthermore, utilizing data analytics for evidence-based policy decisions is a powerful tool for driving positive societal changes. By analyzing large datasets, identifying patterns, and drawing insights, data analytics can inform policymakers and stakeholders about the most effective strategies to address social issues. This evidence-based approach can lead to more efficient resource allocation, better decision-making, and ultimately, improved outcomes for communities. By utilizing technology for the greater good, my goal is to contribute to meaningful advancements and positive societal changes. STEM provides a strong platform for building a fairer and more just world. Through my passion for information technology and its potential to drive innovation, I am excited to be part of a global community working towards a brighter future. 3. One of the most daunting obstacles I have faced involved navigating a trio of hardships: my parents' ongoing financial struggles, my health problems, and adjusting to living alone in a new city. As a child of hardworking Colombian immigrants, witnessing my parents' enduring financial burdens weighed heavily on me, adding an extra layer of stress to my college journey. At the same time, grappling with personal health challenges further compounded the difficulties, necessitating significant time and effort to manage. In addition to these challenges, transitioning to independent living in a new city presented its own set of obstacles, from navigating unfamiliar surroundings to establishing a support network from scratch. However, through perseverance, resourcefulness, and utilizing technology as a lifeline, I discovered innovative ways to cope and thrive amidst adversity. Technology became my home link, enabling me to stay connected with my family and friends despite the physical distance. Whether through video calls, instant messaging, or social media, technology provided a lifeline that kept me connected to my support system during challenging times. Furthermore, I actively sought out opportunities to make friends on campus, participating in student organizations and attending social events to forge connections and combat feelings of isolation. Moreover, I embraced the chance to travel whenever possible, seizing the opportunity to explore my new surroundings and immerse myself in new experiences. These adventures not only offered a welcome distraction from life's challenges but also fostered personal growth and resilience. By leveraging technology, cultivating new friendships, and embracing the spirit of exploration, I navigated through adversity with resilience and determination. Each challenge became an opportunity for growth, reinforcing my belief in the power of adaptability and perseverance in overcoming life's obstacles. Through this experience, I emerged stronger and more resilient.

Throughout my studies, I have used methods to apply my knowledge to real situations. As a first-time college student and the child of immigrants, my journey has been shaped by courage, determination, and an unrelenting commitment to positive change. From humble beginnings as the daughter of a hard-working family in Colombia, I have seized every opportunity to pursue my passion for journalism and computer science with the desire to give back to my community and pave the way for future generations. As a software engineering intern at Toyota's North American headquarters, I explored the complexities of database management and ensuring accuracy through problem-solving. In this role, I work well with cross-functional teams, using my skills in programming languages ​​such as Python and database management tools such as Athena and SQL. Not only did I strengthen my skills by maintaining accurate information within a 4% bias, but I also learned the importance of paying attention to details in that particular environment. Similarly, my work at Giffords and CAIR-Chicago allows me to use the power of storytelling to advocate for underserved communities and see the synergy between technology and journalism regarding social change. As a first-generation American, I feel a deep responsibility to amplify the voices of those who are often ignored or unheard. As a Community Violence Intervention intern at Giffords, I conducted legal research and analysis to support measures aimed at reducing gun violence. I work to address systemic issues that cause violence in marginalized communities through strategic planning and advocacy work. Additionally, my work in communications at CAIR-Chicago has given me a platform to express negative voices through original writing that addresses social justice issues. Beyond the workplace, I work as a leader in school organizations and use my platform to amplify voices and encourage dialogue. As the daughter of immigrants, I understand the importance of representation and education to break down barriers and empower vulnerable communities. As the public relations chair for the Association of Pre-Law Women of Color, I host weekly workshops to facilitate connections between attorneys and professionals. I want to provide opportunities to educate and inspire future leaders of the legal industry through speeches and panel discussions. Additionally, participating in SHPE allows me to use the power of social media to advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM. I strive to create a supportive community for underprivileged people seeking careers in technology and engineering. After undergrad, I plan to pursue a master's degree in journalism, focusing primarily on investigative journalism and documentary journalism. This degree will provide me with the tools necessary to research critical information, hold organizations accountable, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities. I am currently planning to attend law school and simultaneously get a Ph.D. in computer science and public policy. to gain a deeper understanding of the legal process and advocacy strategies. Through my JD, I focused on specializing in technology law and advocating for legislation that balances innovation with the power of individual rights and public health. This partnership will allow me to bridge the gap between technology and governance by advocating for policies that promote integrity, privacy, and cybersecurity. The scholarship you offer represents more than financial aid; This is a guidepost that supports my vision of greater unity and just humanity. With this support, I am ready to go beyond traditional boundaries and fight for change through the integration of technology, law, and journalism. Together we can foster progress and pave the way for a better, more equitable future.

In envisioning a future program that reflects my Colombian background and professional experiences while utilizing my programming skills, I'm driven by a powerful mission - improving access to technology in third-world countries while addressing the critical issue of reporting in regions characterized by insecurity. My Colombian heritage has instilled in me a deep sense of social responsibility, a commitment to justice, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by vulnerable communities. With my background in computer science and journalism, I'm poised to make a substantial impact on these issues. Drawing from my educational journey, which includes pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and a minor in Public Policy at DePaul University, I've developed a strong foundation in technical skills like Java, C++, Python, and JavaScript. These skills are essential for designing and implementing effective technological solutions. My professional experiences further reinforce my capabilities. During my internship at Toyota North America Headquarters, I had the opportunity to collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance user experience (UX) in software applications. This experience not only honed my technical skills but also taught me the importance of user-centered design principles - a crucial aspect when developing technology for diverse communities. As a journalist, I've had the privilege of covering stories that touch upon issues such as human rights, social justice, and activism. My Colombian background has given me a unique perspective on these matters, enabling me to appreciate the significance of secure and anonymous reporting in regions with political unrest. This understanding forms the core of my envisioned program. In the future, I plan to initiate a comprehensive platform designed to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. This platform will encompass a user-friendly mobile application, offering access to critical information, educational resources, and communication tools, even in areas with limited connectivity. My Colombian background informs the cultural sensitivity and awareness needed to tailor these solutions effectively. Crucially, I will prioritize the safety of journalists working in insecure regions. The program will integrate cutting-edge encryption and anonymity features into the application, allowing local reporters to securely share their stories while protecting their identities. By empowering these journalists, we can shed light on vital issues and human rights violations that may otherwise go unreported. In summary, my Colombian heritage, combined with my educational background and professional experiences, propels me toward a future program aimed at improving technology access and secure reporting in third-world countries. It's a mission rooted in social responsibility and driven by the belief that technology can be a powerful force for positive change, even in the most challenging environments.

Growing up in a Colombian-immigrant household, I witnessed the attributing disparities my family faced because they are not the exemplification of the American dream. My parents were chasing an attainable dream, to survive to live the next day. We were never privileged to partake in investing, owning a home until recently, and all the examples of American privilege. I was never embarrassed of my background and the struggles my family before me faced. My parents wanted me to see that women are capable of anything, but the media, stereotypes, and cultural beliefs make us think otherwise. My brain and voice were brought by the norms my parents raised me on, the education I received in and outside of school, and personal experiences that shaped me into the woman I am today, and in the end, the one I am destined to be. All of this made me the woman I am today and the woman I am destined to become. I plan to make the world a better place in many ways. I want to use my computer science knowledge to help issues of accessibility, my journalism skills to report and inform the rising disparities and conflicts my community faces, and my political science passion to work in congress to be a voice in government. My community experience with SHPE is I am the Secretary at my university's chapter. I have learned much as secretary and want to do all I can to impact my members. Aside from SHPE, I am a Virtual STEM instructor with STEM Center USA, where I teach STEM to migrant kids. Most of them are Spanish speaking, whose dreams go from working as a farm worker to becoming an aerospace engineer. Every job is dignified, and the dreams of these kids are limited to the systematic placements they face. Kids deserve to have other dreams for themselves; access should not be why they do not see it through. This is my motivation. I want to close these systematic placements these families face to give the generation the same opportunities as privileged individuals. Our future is the youth and investing in them is the most important. I have many motivations for pursuing a STEM degree. My closest motivation is my aunt in Colombia, a chemical engineer. Her family made the sacrifices they could to help her fund her education, but she also provided a lot for herself. She worked and studied simultaneously, won scholarships, and found mentors to support her. She worked in a field dominated by men and still made leadership. She will always be my STEM family motivation. She never stopped her education regardless of her age; she obtained her master's in her late 40s and reminded me that no matter what age you achieve something, it's the fact that you did. We need to stop basing knowledge and credibility on gender and race and start investing in the potential of an individual with passion. As someone building a network, career, and recognition to be at the forefront of the magnitude of racism and discrimination in a place where privileged individuals abuse the system. Over time, you become numb to the persistent differences you face as a minority, but rather do all you can to be the true image of your community. I want to continue on to receive a master’s degree in journalism to work in the field of my dreams, and lastly obtain my law degree. Lo mejor está por venir, the best is yet to come. Winning this scholarship will help me continue pursuing my degree without financially stressing.