True success is not measured solely by personal achievement, but by the impact we have on the lives of others. Growing up, I learned the true meaning of selflessness and perseverance by watching my father. He works full time and consistently takes on grueling overtime shifts to support my university education and provide for our family. His quiet dedication taught me that we rise by lifting others, a belief that guides my journey as a student, an athlete, and a member of my community. As an Electrical Engineering student maintaining a 3.98 GPA at Florida State University, my academic path requires intense perseverance. This discipline is directly mirrored in my athletic life. Representing Ghana in swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and currently training for the LA 2028 Olympic Games demands early mornings, heavy weightlifting, and strict time management. However, I have always believed that these personal achievements mean very little if they are not paired with a broader purpose. I want my future to be about more than just personal success; I want to embody the legacy of service that Michael Rudometkin stood for. One of the most meaningful ways I practice selflessness is through my involvement at my local church. I regularly volunteer in the worship center, where I serve meals, organize community events, and offer a reliable helping hand wherever it is needed. These experiences keep me grounded. They remind me that community service is not just about the physical tasks performed; it is about offering hope, showing up for people, and demonstrating that someone genuinely cares. I am also deeply committed to applying my engineering education to help others, as I believe technology should always be a force for good. In a recent engineering course, my team and I poured our hearts into designing a custom adaptive toy system for an infant facing physical challenges. By creating an inclusive play environment that actively promoted her motor skill development, I witnessed firsthand how technical skills can be used to improve a life. This project solidified my desire to use my education to create tangible, positive changes in the world. Looking to the future, I plan to pursue a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management. My goal is to step into executive leadership roles where I can redesign hardware systems to be more sustainable and efficient, ensuring that future technological advancements benefit everyone. Receiving the Michael Rudometkin Memorial Scholarship would be a profound honor. It would alleviate the immense financial stress on my father, honoring his selflessness by allowing him to gain some well deserved rest. Furthermore, it would empower me to continue pursuing my rigorous education and athletic goals while remaining steadfast in my commitment to service. I am determined to carry forward a legacy of kindness and perseverance, making the world a better place one act of service at a time. Many Thanks, Harry

Growing up, I learned that true resilience is built both in the water and in the classroom. As a Black student entering my junior year pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at Florida State University, my path has been shaped by a relentless drive to break barriers and serve my community. I demand excellence from myself in all pursuits. Dr. Michael S. Warner noted this in his recommendation letter, highlighting my maturity, perseverance, and precision in his fundamental mechanics and electromagnetism laboratories. I carried this exact discipline with me when I transferred to Florida State University for my sophomore year. Today, I maintain a 3.98 GPA while balancing my rigorous coursework with a job as a swim instructor, teaching kids how to swim. My next academic step is to secure a research assistant position in one of the university engineering labs, where I can directly apply my theoretical knowledge to real world problems. My passion lies in the physical architecture of technology. As Artificial Intelligence expands, the massive data centers powering these models face critical thermal constraints. I want to redesign these hardware systems to be environmentally sustainable. However, I believe engineering is ultimately about human service. In a recent project, my team and I designed an adaptive toy system for an infant named Nora who has a physical limb difference missing the portion of her right arm below the elbow. We built a modular PVC frame and carefully calculated bungee cord lengths to specifically encourage her bilateral motor skill development. Seeing her play with our custom design for hours proved that I can use my technical skills to directly uplift others. This drive to succeed extends far beyond the classroom. I proudly represented Ghana in swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and I am currently mapping out my daily training and physical recovery to compete at the LA 2028 Olympic Games. To stay grounded amidst this intense schedule, I regularly volunteer at my church worship center, serving meals and organizing events to give back to the people who support me. Despite my ambition, financial barriers remain a significant hurdle. My father works full time and consistently takes on grueling overtime shifts to support my university education while simultaneously caring for my disabled sister. The Byte into STEM Scholarship would be a transformative investment. It would alleviate the immense financial stress on my father, allowing him to drop those extra shifts and gain some well deserved rest. By removing my own need to work outside of my demanding classes, this funding will empower me to dedicate my time entirely to my engineering lab research and Olympic training. Ultimately, I plan to pursue a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering by 2028 and step into executive leadership roles, serving as a role model for future Black engineers. Many Thanks, Harry

I love math because it turns abstract numbers and data into a real life difference. For me, mathematics is not just a subject I study to maintain my 3.98 GPA as an Electrical Engineering student at Florida State University. It is the fundamental tool I use to solve physical problems and optimize the world. My favorite application of math is serving others. Recently, my team and I designed an adaptive toy system for a 9 to 12 month old infant named Nora, who has a physical limb difference missing the portion of her right arm below the elbow. To ensure safety, we relied entirely on mathematical modeling. We performed theoretical calculations to determine that a minimum of 6 square inches of velcro contact area was required to support all components during vehicle movement. We also used math to make the toys ergonomically accessible, basing our cord lengths on an average infant arm reach and adjusting specifically for Nora's right limb length, estimated at 65 percent of her left arm reach. These precise calculations created a stable environment that promoted her bilateral motor skill development. Beyond the classroom, math governs my life as an elite athlete. Representing Ghana in swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games required meticulous numerical precision. I use data to optimize my physical output, strictly tracking my dietary macros and calibrating my creatine intake based on exact body weight. As I prepare for the LA 2028 Olympic Games, every training block is heavily quantified. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a Master of Science program in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management by 2028. I want to use mathematical optimization to revolutionize Artificial Intelligence hardware, redesigning data centers to be thermally efficient. This scholarship would be a tremendous blessing. My father works full time and consistently takes on grueling overtime shifts to support my university education while caring for my disabled sister. This funding would alleviate his financial burden, allowing him to drop those extra shifts and gain well deserved rest. It will also empower me to dedicate my energy entirely to mathematics, my engineering research, and my Olympic training. Many Thanks, Harry

The person who inspires me the most has never competed in an Olympic pool or engineered a complex physical system. My inspiration is my father. He works full time and consistently takes on grueling overtime shifts to support my university education while caring for my disabled sister. Last September, my life and his life changed when I was selected as a winner of this exact award. Winning the Sloane Stephens Doc and Glo Scholarship was not just a financial victory; it was a lifeline. It allowed my father to drop his extra overtime shifts, giving him well deserved rest and undoubtedly adding years to his life. Today, I am reapplying to continue that trajectory, sharing my vision for the future and the change I am determined to create. The financial relief from last year empowered me to fully focus on my dual goals. I currently maintain a 3.98 GPA as an Electrical Engineering student at Florida State University. Simultaneously, I dedicated myself to my athletic training, which culminated in representing Ghana in swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. My ambition is fueled by the core values of resilience, kindness, and self belief, the very same values instilled by Doc and Glo that this scholarship honors. I believe that true leadership involves using your education to give back to your community. I want to use my engineering background to create physical solutions that improve people's lives. During a recent engineering course, my team and I put this vision into practice. We designed an adaptive toy system for a 9 to 12 month old infant named Nora, who has a physical limb difference missing the portion of her right arm below the elbow. We built a modular play attachment using a secure PVC frame and adjustable bungee cords. By positioning sensory toys to specifically encourage her right arm usage, we created an inclusive environment that promoted her bilateral motor skill development. Seeing her play for hours proved to me that engineering is fundamentally about human service. Looking forward, I plan to transition into a Master of Science program in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management by 2028. My vision is to step into executive leadership roles where I can optimize processes and redesign hardware systems to be fundamentally more sustainable and efficient. The change I want to create is a world where technological infrastructure scales responsibly, benefiting future generations. To achieve these academic and athletic goals, including my preparation for the LA 2028 Olympic Games, I need continued support. Winning this scholarship again would ensure I do not need to work a part time job alongside my demanding classes. More importantly, it will continue to protect my father from the physical toll of overtime labor. I am deeply grateful for the profound impact this foundation has already had on my family, and I am determined to pay that investment forward. Many Thanks, Harry

Growing up, my education was non traditional. Being homeschooled for the majority of my middle and high school years required immense self direction. I had to learn how to tackle complex subjects independently, a skill that sparked my initial interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Today, as an Electrical Engineering student maintaining a 3.98 GPA at Florida State University, my path has not been easy. One major obstacle has been balancing my rigorous coursework with my life as an elite athlete. I competed in swimming for Ghana at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, a milestone that demanded exhausting early morning practices and intense weightlifting. Beyond my schedule, my family faces significant financial hurdles. My father works full time and consistently takes on grueling overtime shifts to fund my education while simultaneously caring for my disabled sister. My interest in STEM, specifically the physical architecture of technology, grew from hands on experience. While I have some background in coding, my true passion lies in hardware optimization and power delivery. I have spent years building and repairing complex desktop systems. Whether I am precisely installing a Dark Rock 4 CPU cooler or performing a complex laptop repaste using Honeywell PTM7950 phase change materials, I am fascinated by thermal dynamics. I want to take this micro scale knowledge and apply it to the macro scale. As Artificial Intelligence models become deeply integrated into our daily lives, the immense data centers powering them face unprecedented thermal and power constraints. I am drawn to STEM because I want to be an innovator in the AI hardware sector, redesigning data centers to be fundamentally more sustainable and thermally efficient. The impact I hope to make extends beyond industrial servers; I want to use engineering to directly uplift individuals. During a recent engineering course, my team and I developed an adaptive car seat toy system for a 9 to 12 month old infant named Nora, who has a physical limb difference. By designing a secure PVC frame with adjustable bungee cords and sensory toys positioned to encourage her bilateral motor skill development, we created an inclusive play environment. Seeing Nora instantly gravitate toward our custom design and play captivated for hours taught me that the best engineering is rooted in human service. Looking ahead, I plan to transition into a Master of Science program in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management by 2028. My goal is to become an executive leader who optimizes processes and builds the sustainable physical foundation for our AI driven future. The Emerging Leaders in STEM Scholarship would be a transformative blessing. It would alleviate the heavy financial stress on my father, allowing him to finally drop his overtime shifts and gain some well deserved rest. By removing my need to work alongside my studies, this funding will empower me to fully dedicate my energy to my engineering education and my daily training for the LA 2028 Olympic Games. Many Thanks, Harry

Growing up, my world was relatively quiet. Being homeschooled for the majority of my middle and high school years meant that my daily routine was highly self directed and independent. However, the one constant that structured my life and ultimately pushed me onto the global stage was competitive swimming. Playing this sport has fundamentally shaped my character, transforming a quiet homeschool student into an Olympic athlete and a dedicated engineer. Swimming taught me that true growth only happens at the absolute edge of our physical and mental limits. The discipline I cultivated in the pool seamlessly translated into my academic transition to a traditional university setting. Swimming taught me how to manage my time, set rigorous goals, and handle inevitable setbacks. I applied this athletic mindset directly to my coursework, allowing me to maintain a 3.98 GPA as an Electrical Engineering student at Florida State University. The early morning practices and heavy weightlifting sessions built a foundation of resilience that I rely on when tackling complex hardware optimization or power delivery concepts in my classes. More importantly, representing Ghana in swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games expanded my worldview. Competing at that elite level showed me that ambition must be paired with a larger purpose. I realized I wanted to channel my relentless drive into creating tangible solutions that improve people's lives. This realization directly influenced my academic projects, such as when my team and I built a custom adaptive play system to promote bilateral motor skill development for an infant with a physical limb difference. Swimming taught me to look beyond my own lane and use my strengths to uplift my community. Currently, I am balancing my rigorous engineering coursework with intense daily training as I work fiercely toward my goal of competing at the LA 2028 Olympic Games. I am also planning to transition into a Master of Science program in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management by 2028. However, this journey is not one I am taking alone. My father works full time and consistently takes on exhausting overtime shifts to support my university education alongside caring for my disabled sister. His daily sacrifices mirror the dedication I strive to show in the pool. Receiving the Stephan L. Wolley Memorial Scholarship would be a life changing honor. It would alleviate the immense financial stress on my father, allowing him to finally drop those overtime shifts and giving him well deserved rest. By removing my need to work a part time job alongside my classes, this funding would allow me to dedicate my time entirely to my education and athletics. With this crucial support, I can fully prioritize my daily training, physical recovery, and coursework, ensuring I remain on track to become an innovative engineering leader and an Olympian. Many Thanks, Harry

In ten years, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of our daily lives. From autonomous transportation networks to predictive medical diagnostics, these technologies will operate quietly in the background to make our world more efficient and responsive. However, the invisible backbone of this revolution is not just the software algorithms; it is the immense physical infrastructure that makes those algorithms possible. I see a future where the massive data centers powering these AI models are fundamentally reimagined to be more thermally efficient and sustainable, and my goal is to be a leading innovator in this exact sector. While I do have some experience in coding, participating in some entry level C++ and Data Structures classes, my true passion lies in the physical architecture of technology. To prepare myself to be part of this change, I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering at Florida State University. I focus heavily on hardware optimization and power delivery. I have spent years building and repairing complex desktop computer systems, troubleshooting intricate hardware issues, and performing precise thermal maintenance. For example, I have successfully executed complex component repasting using advanced phase change materials to prevent thermal throttling on high performance processors. This hands on experience with thermal dynamics and component reliability on a micro scale directly translates to the macro scale challenges faced by modern AI data centers. The computational demands of training massive Machine Learning models are pushing current server cooling and power delivery systems to their absolute limits. I want to innovate on the hardware side of this industry. My plan is to pursue a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management by 2028. My objective is to transition into industrial executive roles where I can lead engineering teams to design next generation data centers. By optimizing power consumption, thermal efficiency, and hardware longevity, I want to ensure that the AI advancements of the next decade are both rapidly scalable and environmentally responsible. The AROC AI/ML Scholarship would be a tremendous asset in this journey. It would provide the crucial financial support I need to focus entirely on my rigorous coursework and hands on hardware research. By alleviating my financial burdens, this scholarship will empower me to dedicate my full energy to becoming a leader who builds the sustainable physical foundation for our AI driven future. Many Thanks, Harry Stacey

My journey has always been defined by a relentless drive to push my limits and help those around me. Whether I am competing as an Olympic swimmer at the 2024 Paris Games, maintaining a 3.98 GPA as an Electrical Engineering student at Florida State University, or giving back to my community, I believe true success is measured by the tangible impact we have on others. My educational and career goals center on leadership and process optimization. I am determined to use my engineering background to create solutions that improve people’s lives. Faith and community service keep me grounded amidst my daily athletic training and weightlifting schedules. In the attached photo, I am volunteering at my church's worship center during a graduation celebration. Whether serving meals, organizing events, or just being a helping hand, volunteering allows me to connect with my community on a personal level. It reminds me that leadership is not just about standing on a podium; it is about showing up and supporting the people who have supported you. My father works full time and consistently takes on exhausting overtime shifts to support my university education alongside caring for my disabled sister. This drive to serve translates directly into my academic work and problem solving approach. In my first year engineering course, my team and I designed an adaptive toy system for a 9 to 12 month old infant named Nora, who has a limb difference missing the portion of her right arm below the elbow. As shown in the second photo, we built a modular play attachment using a foam padded PVC frame that can adapt to a car seat via a secure velcro based mounting system. Our primary goal was to promote bilateral motor skill development and coordination. To accommodate Nora's unique reach, we implemented adjustable bungee cords of varying lengths, deliberately placing engaging sensory toys like bells and crinkly fabric lower on the right side to encourage her to use her right arm. The reward came during testing: Nora preferred our design over 15 other toys. She instantly gravitated towards it and was captivated for multiple hours during playtime, proving how thoughtful design resonates with a child. Seeing this theoretical concept become a physical device that improves a disabled child's daily experience solidified my passion for hands on engineering. Looking ahead, I plan to transition into a Master of Science program in Industrial Engineering with a Specialization in Engineering Management by 2028. I want to step into industrial executive roles where I can lead teams to solve complex issues. The Luis Escobar III Foundation Scholarship would be instrumental in managing the financial demands of my undergraduate degree. Most importantly, it would alleviate the immense financial stress on my father, allowing him to drop those overtime shifts and giving him well deserved rest and extra years of life. By removing my need to work alongside my classes, this funding allows me to dedicate my time entirely to education and athletics. With this support, I can prioritize my daily training, recovery, and coursework, ensuring I maintain a high GPA while working fiercely toward my goal of competing in swimming at the LA 2028 Olympic Games. Many Thanks, Harry

My name is Harry Stacey, and I’m a mixed-race international student currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering with a minor in Physics at Florida State University. I speak English, French, and a bit of Spanish, and I’ve had the honor of representing my country, Ghana, as an Olympic swimmer. Behind the medals and academic rigor lies a story of grit, sacrifice, and a defining moment that changed my whole perspective and way of life. When I was 14, my family moved back to England after living in France for a brief period. I had been swimming competitively for years, but my parents sat me down and gave me a choice: either take full ownership of my swimming career or let it go. They would no longer drive me to practice. It was a terrifying moment but I chose to own it. Two of my weekly practices were in a city an hour away, starting at 6 a.m. To get there, I had to wake up at 4 a.m., cycle to the train station in the dark, catch the first train out, then cycle again from the station to the pool. After two hours of training, I’d navigate rush hour to get home and begin my school day. Being homeschooled meant there were no excuses. I did this week after week, through rain, physical/mental exhaustion, and plenty of self-doubt. That period was one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever faced. It tested my discipline, my mental strength, and my commitment to a dream that hadn’t yet materialized. But it also taught me something invaluable: when you truly care about something, you’ll find a way. That decision to take ownership of my swimming was the turning point. Years later, I stood on the Olympic stage, knowing that every early morning and every lonely train ride had led me there. My journey hasn’t just been about sport or academics. It’s also shaped by my family and my identity. As a mixed-race individual, I’ve often navigated spaces where I felt like I didn’t fully belong. My younger sister has Down syndrome, and growing up with her taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of inclusion. She’s definitely one of my greatest inspirations, with her joy, resilience, and unconditional love reminding me daily why I strive to be someone who uplifts others. In engineering, I’m drawn to problem-solving and innovation, especially in areas that can improve lives. I’m passionate about sustainable energy and smart systems, and I hope to work on technologies that make communities more resilient and accessible. Doing a minor in physics helps my understanding of the world’s mechanics and makes me see the world differently, but it’s my lived experience that fuels my desire to create meaningful change. Volunteering and leadership have always been part of my rhythm. I’ve mentored younger swimmers, tutored peers in STEM, and spoken at youth events about perseverance and purpose. I want to show others, especially those who feel like outsiders, that strength comes from struggle, and that dreams are worth chasing even when the path is steep. Receiving the Anthony Belliamy Memorial Scholarship would be more than financial support; it would be a recognition of the journey I’ve taken and the values I live by: ambition, drive, and impact. I carry those values into every lane I swim, every equation I solve, and every person I mentor. I’m committed to honoring Anthony Belliamy’s legacy by continuing to rise above challenges and lead with integrity. Thank you for considering my application. Cheers, Harry Stacey OLY

Pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at Florida State University while competing as an Olympian has taught me that excellence is not a destination: it’s a daily commitment. I am applying for this scholarship not only to support my academic journey, but to amplify the impact I can have on others through the combination of engineering, sport, and service to the community. My advantage lies in the rare combination of technical rigor and elite athletic discipline. As an Olympian, I’ve trained under immense pressure, learned to thrive in high-stakes environments, and cultivated a mindset of resilience and precision. These qualities directly translate to my engineering studies, where problem-solving, innovation, and perseverance are essential. Whether I’m analyzing circuit behavior or optimizing energy systems, I approach each challenge with the same intensity and focus that I bring to the pool. Electrical engineering is more than simply a career path: it’s a platform for change. I am particularly drawn to sustainable energy and smart infrastructure, areas where innovation can directly improve lives. My goal is to contribute to technologies that make communities more resilient and equitable, especially in underserved regions. With this scholarship, I can deepen my research, pursue internships, and collaborate with mentors at my university who share this vision. But achievement means little if it isn’t shared. I believe this scholarship would empower me to inspire others. Especially young athletes and students who feel torn between their passions and academic goals. Too often, people are told they must choose between sport and school, between creativity and discipline. I want to show that it’s possible to pursue both with excellence. I’ve already begun mentoring younger swimmers and tutoring peers in STEM subjects, and I plan to expand this outreach through campus initiatives and community programs. What sets me apart is not just what I’ve accomplished, but how I’ve grown through adversity. Balancing Olympic training with a demanding engineering curriculum has required sacrifice, time management, and emotional resilience. I’ve learned to adapt, lead, and to stay grounded in my values. These experiences have shaped me into someone who doesn’t just chase success but also tries to builds it for others. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease financial burdens, but also validate the belief that interdisciplinary excellence matters. It would allow me to continue pushing boundaries, both in the lab and in the pool, while uplifting others along the way. I am committed to using every opportunity to achieve great things. Not for recognition, but for impact. Thank you for considering my application. I am ready to represent the values of this scholarship with integrity, ambition, and a deep sense of purpose. Cheers, Harry Stacey OLY

My name is Harry Stacey, and I’m an undergraduate Electrical Engineering student at Florida State University. I’m also an Olympic swimmer representing Ghana internationally, and a former youth coach and mentor. My journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to service, a passion for engineering, and a steadfast faith in Christ that guides every step I take. Growing up in the UK and across six countries, I witnessed both the beauty and the challenges of life in underserved communities. I saw how unreliable infrastructure and limited access to energy could hold back entire neighborhoods. These experiences sparked my desire to pursue engineering,not just as a career, but as a calling. I chose Electrical Engineering because I want to help build sustainable, reliable systems that empower people and uplift communities. My long-term goal is to return to Ghana and contribute to energy and infrastructure development, creating solutions that reflect both technical excellence and compassion. Faith has always been my foundation. I was raised in a Christian home where service, humility, and perseverance were core values. Today, I remain actively involved in my local church (DCC) in Tallahassee, where I attend weekly services, volunteer with youth outreach, and participate in Bible study groups with other student-athletes. My faith is not just a part of my life, it’s the lens through which I view my purpose. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I plan to stay rooted in Christ by continuing to serve, worship, and grow in fellowship. I believe that engineering, when guided by faith, becomes a powerful tool for healing and hope. Balancing full-time studies with elite athletic training is demanding, and as an international student, I face significant financial challenges. I’m ineligible for federal aid and athletic scholarships, and I rely on personal savings and limited support to fund my education. Receiving the Luis Escobar III Foundation Scholarship would be a tremendous blessing. It would ease the financial burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and training, and continue pursuing my dream of using engineering to serve others in Christ’s name. I am deeply inspired by the mission of this scholarship: to support Christian students who are passionate about engineering and giving back. That mission reflects my own life’s purpose. I don’t just want to build systems; I want to build futures. I want to be a light in the engineering world, showing that faith and innovation can go hand in hand. With your support, I will continue to grow as a student, a servant, and a follower of Christ. Thank you for considering my application. I am honored to be part of a community that believes in the power of faith-driven purpose. Many Thanks, Harry Stacey OLY