The past year has been a big one for me, in terms of personal growth. One of the biggest changes I've gone through is learning to love myself. It sounds cliche, but it's true. Losing my mother in 2020 was a huge wake-up call for me. It made me realize that life is short and it's important to take care of yourself. Before, I was always putting the needs and wants of others before my own. I was always neglecting my own mental and physical well-being in order to please others. But now, I focus on my own happiness and well-being. Another big change for me has been my ability to open up more to my family and express how I feel. I used to bottle up my emotions and keep them to myself, believing that no one would understand or care. But I've learned that communication is key in any relationship. By being more open with my family about my feelings, I've been able to deepen my connections with them and make our bonds stronger. Even though I've changed a lot in some ways, there are still aspects of myself that have remained the same. I'm still the same person with the same values and beliefs. But my perspective and approach to life have changed. I've learned to appreciate the present moment and focus on my own well-being. The most important thing I've learned on this journey of self-discovery is that it's okay to not be okay. I used to think that I had to put on a strong front and hide my true feelings. But now I know that it's important to allow yourself to feel emotions, even if they are difficult. At the same time, I've learned that it's never okay to suffer in silence. If you need help, it's important to seek it out. In short, losing my mother was a difficult and emotional time for me, but it also served as a wake-up call to start valuing and taking care of myself. I've learned to open up more to my family and express how I feel, I've learned that it's okay to not be okay but it's never okay to suffer in silence. And even though I've changed a lot, I'm still the same person with the same values and beliefs. It's been a tough journey, but I'm grateful for the lessons and growth I've experienced.

My interest in computer science began to take shape during my sophomore year of high school when I participated in the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWITT) program. This experience was a turning point for me, as it not only introduced me to the world of computer science but also allowed me to work on projects and learn from experienced professionals. The program helped me to understand the importance of computer science in today's society and the endless possibilities it holds. During the program, I was awarded a $2,000 stipend and was recognized as a National Winner. This award and recognition further solidified my interest in computer science and my desire to pursue a degree in this field. My ultimate goal or dream job after receiving my degree is to become a neurosurgeon. I believe that the combination of computer science and medicine is the future of healthcare. With the help of computer science, we can improve medical treatments and diagnostic tools, which will ultimately save lives. I am passionate about utilizing my computer science knowledge to improve the field of medicine and make a positive impact on the world. I believe that my participation in the NCWITT program and being a National Winner shows my dedication and passion for computer science. Furthermore, my dream job as a neurosurgeon and my interest in the intersection of computer science and healthcare demonstrate my determination to make a difference in the world with my computer science knowledge. Additionally, I have had a passion for video games from a young age, and I have always wanted to develop games. This passion has led me to learn about game development and programming, which has further solidified my interest in computer science. I believe that my background in video game development and my award as a National Winner in the NCWITT program will give me a unique perspective in the field, and I am excited to bring my creativity and passion to the computer science industry. In conclusion, I have always been fascinated by technology and its capabilities, and my participation in the NCWITT program solidified my interest in computer science. My ultimate goal is to become a neurosurgeon and use my computer science knowledge to improve healthcare. I believe that my dedication and passion for computer science, as well as my background in video game development and my award as a National Winner in the NCWITT program make me the best candidate for this scholarship.

One technology that inspires me about the way in which technology can make the world a better place is renewable energy technology. Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, have the ability to provide clean, sustainable energy that reduces our dependence on fossil fuels and helps to mitigate the effects of climate change. Solar power, for example, is a technology that has come a long way in recent years. The cost of solar panels has dropped significantly, making it more affordable for individuals and businesses to install solar panels and generate their own electricity. Additionally, advances in storage technology have made it possible to store excess solar energy, which can be used during periods of low sunlight. This means that solar power can now be used to provide reliable, clean energy 24 hours a day. Wind power is another renewable energy technology that has seen significant advances in recent years. The development of larger and more efficient wind turbines has made it possible to generate more electricity from wind power. Furthermore, the use of wind power in combination with other renewable energy sources, such as solar power, can help to stabilize the grid and reduce the need for fossil fuel-based power plants. Renewable energy technology is not only good for the environment, but it also has the potential to provide energy access to communities that currently lack it. This is crucial for social and economic development in those regions, where lack of access to energy is a barrier to development. In conclusion, renewable energy technology is an example of how technology can make the world a better place. By providing clean, sustainable energy, it has the ability to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate the effects of climate change and provide energy access to communities that currently lack it. The advancements in renewable energy technology give me hope that we can create a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Feminism, in my opinion, is the belief that all individuals, regardless of gender, should have equal rights and opportunities. It is the notion that men and women should be treated as equals in all aspects of society, including politics, the workplace, and personal relationships. Feminism aims to challenge and dismantle the systemic inequalities and discrimination that women face, promoting gender equality. It is important to understand that gender equality is not just about women, it is about all genders. Feminism is about creating a society where everyone has the same opportunities, regardless of gender identity. It is about dismantling the patriarchal systems that have been in place for centuries, systems that have been designed to keep certain groups in power, while others are systematically oppressed. Feminism is important because it addresses the ways in which patriarchal structures and societal norms continue to oppress and marginalize women. Recognizing that women's rights are human rights and achieving gender equality benefits everyone in society. This includes issues such as equal pay, reproductive rights, and the right to live free from violence and harassment. It also includes issues that disproportionately affect marginalized groups, such as intersectionality, which is the understanding that different forms of discrimination, such as racism and homophobia, intersect and overlap to create unique experiences of oppression. An inspirational figure for me in terms of feminism is Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was a trailblazer in the legal profession and a fierce advocate for women's rights. Her life and work have been an inspiration to me, and she has had a profound impact on my view of feminism. She has shown me that it is possible to achieve great things and make a real difference in the world, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Ruth Bader Ginsburg's work as a Supreme Court Justice has been instrumental in shaping laws that protect women's rights, and she has been an advocate for marginalized communities throughout her career. In my community, I contribute to the feminist movement by educating myself and others about issues of gender equality and actively working to dismantle patriarchal structures and biases. I am a part of a social media feminist group that aims to raise awareness about issues such as sexual harassment, gender-based violence, and reproductive rights. Through this group, I participate in online campaigns, and discussions to educate people on the importance of intersectionality and intersectional feminism. I also use my platform to amplify the voices of marginalized groups and to support and uplift women and other marginalized communities. Additionally, I also volunteer in organizations that work towards empowering women and other marginalized groups. I help in organizing events that provide education and resources for these communities. I also actively support and donate to organizations that work towards providing access to education, healthcare, and legal aid for marginalized women. In conclusion, feminism is an important movement that aims to create a society where everyone has the same rights and opportunities, regardless of gender identity. It is about dismantling patriarchal systems that have been in place for centuries and promoting gender equality. Ruth Bader Ginsburg is an inspirational figure for me in terms of feminism, and I contribute to the feminist movement by educating myself and others about issues of gender equality, actively working to dismantle patriarchal structures and biases, and supporting and uplifting marginalized communities. By doing so, I hope to make a positive impact on the world and help create a more just and equal society for all.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and to keep moving forward despite challenges. As someone who has faced a number of obstacles in my life, I understand the importance of resilience and how it can be a powerful tool for inspiring others. One way in which I have demonstrated resilience is through my ability to overcome personal struggles. I have faced a number of challenges in my life, including mental health issues, financial difficulties, and relationship problems. However, I have always been able to find the strength and determination to keep going, even when things seemed impossible. I have also been able to inspire others by sharing my story and my journey toward resilience. I have been open and honest about the struggles I have faced and have been willing to share my experiences in order to help others who may be going through similar challenges. I believe that by being vulnerable and transparent, I have been able to connect with others on a deeper level and inspire them to be resilient in their own lives. In addition to sharing my story, I have also been an active supporter of mental health and wellness initiatives. I have volunteered my time and resources to organizations that provide support to those who are struggling with mental health issues. This has been a way for me to give back to my community and help others who may be going through similar struggles. I have also been an advocate for self-care, and have been encouraging people to prioritize their well-being. This includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and taking time to relax and de-stress. I believe that self-care is an important aspect of resilience and that by prioritizing our well-being, we can be better equipped to handle challenges that come our way. One person who inspired me to think critically about a challenge in the world around me is Malala Yousafzai. She is an advocate for education and women's rights, and her story of resilience and determination in the face of extreme adversity deeply moved me. Her courage and commitment to making a positive impact on the world, despite all the obstacles she faced, inspired me to think more critically about the challenges that exist in our world and to look for ways to make a difference. Malala's story reminded me that even in the most difficult of circumstances, there is always hope. She has been an inspiration to me, and her story has helped me to see the world in a new light. It has reminded me that even when things seem impossible, there is always a way to make a difference, and that resilience is the key to making that happen. In conclusion, I have demonstrated resilience in various ways and have been able to inspire others by sharing my story and my journey toward resilience. I have been an active supporter of mental health and wellness initiatives, and have been an advocate for self-care. Being inspired by someone like Malala Yousafzai, I have been reminded that even in the most difficult of circumstances, there is always hope and resilience is the key to making a difference.

Living with an autoimmune disease, specifically, skin psoriasis has greatly shaped who I am today. It has taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of self-care. When I was first diagnosed, I was only a teenager and had no idea what living with psoriasis would entail. I thought that it would make it less attractive to societal standards. I felt isolated and alone as if I was the only person in the world going through this struggle. However, I soon discovered that there were many others who shared the same experience, and that helped me to feel less alone. My psoriasis caused my hair to fall out, which was a difficult adjustment for me. It was a constant reminder of my illness and made me feel self-conscious. But as time went on, I learned to embrace my bald head and even began to see it as a symbol of my strength. I realized that my hair loss was not a weakness, but rather a reminder of the struggles I had overcome. Resulting in that, I shaved off my hair completely and used medicine and various oils for my hair type which helped me grow back my beautiful hair. I lost hope at first but now I am happy to know that I overcame something as hard as it may seem for other women or men. My three little brothers also struggle with psoriasis. Watching them go through the same struggles that I did helped me to understand that this is something that runs in our family, and it made me more empathetic toward them. I also helped them to find ways to cope with their condition, such as finding ways to reduce the itchiness and helped them to feel less self-conscious about their appearance. In addition to developing empathy and resilience, living with psoriasis has also taught me the importance of self-care. I have learned that taking care of myself is essential for managing my condition and for maintaining my overall well-being. I have found that regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress-reducing activities like meditation and yoga have helped me to better manage my symptoms. Overall, my experience living with psoriasis has been difficult, but it has also been incredibly transformative. It has helped me to develop empathy and resilience and has taught me the importance of self-care. I have turned my struggle into my strength and I am proud of who I have become because of it.

The quality I value most in myself is my determination, which has been a driving force in helping me achieve my goals throughout my life. I believe that determination is the foundation of all success, and it is what sets those who achieve their goals apart from those who simply dream about them. My determination was evident in high school when I took on the challenge of AP computer science. I was determined to succeed in this class, even though I knew it would be difficult. I spent countless hours studying and working on projects, and I was able to earn an A in the class. This experience taught me that with determination and hard work, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. In addition, my determination was also evident in my extracurricular activities. I was determined to become a leader in my school's HOSA club, and I worked hard to develop my skills and become a valuable member of the team. Through my determination and hard work, I was able to become the club's president. I also value my family's support and encouragement. They have always been there for me, cheering me on and pushing me to achieve my goals. I want to make them proud by being successful and making a positive impact on the world. My family has always been my motivation, and I am determined to make them proud of me. As I continue on my life journey, I am determined to use my determination to achieve my goals. I am currently working in a highly competitive field, but I am determined to succeed. I am willing to put in the extra hours and make the sacrifices necessary to achieve my professional goals. I am also determined to continue my education, to become an expert in my field, and to make a positive impact on the world. Furthermore, I am determined to give back to my community by volunteering, mentoring, or participating in social causes that I am passionate about. I believe that making a positive impact in my community is a great way to make my family proud and the world a better place. I have always believed that it is important to give back to society, and I am determined to do that. In conclusion, I believe that determination is the most important quality a person can possess. It is what drives us to achieve our goals and overcome obstacles. It is what separates the dreamers from the doers. I am determined to continue to use this characteristic to achieve my goals, make my family proud, and make a positive impact in the world. With my determination and hard work, I am confident that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. I will continue to strive for greatness and set high standards for myself, and I am determined to reach them all.

Mental illness is an issue that has greatly impacted my life, shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in many ways. Growing up, I struggled with anxiety and depression, which sometimes made it difficult to navigate everyday life. However, through therapy and medication, I have been able to manage my symptoms and gain a better understanding of my mental health. Perhaps the most significant way my experience with mental illness has influenced my beliefs is by teaching me the importance of self-care and self-compassion. Growing up, I often felt that I should be able to "tough it out" and push through my struggles without seeking help. However, through therapy, I have learned that it is okay to take care of myself, to be kind to myself, and to seek help when I need it. This has also led me to believe in the power of therapy and medication in treating mental illness, and I now see them as a necessary step toward healing rather than something to be ashamed of. My experience with mental illness has also had a profound impact on my relationships. Before I began therapy, I often struggled with communication, setting boundaries, and understanding my own emotions. This often led to strained relationships and feelings of isolation. But through therapy, I have learned how to communicate my needs, set boundaries, and understand my own emotions and how to cope with them. This has helped me to strengthen my relationships with my family, friends, and romantic partners, and has also made me more empathetic and understanding toward others who may be struggling with mental health issues. Lastly, my experience with mental illness has dramatically influenced my career aspirations. I have been drawn to pursue a career in the field of mental health, specifically counseling and psychology. I want to help others who may be going through similar struggles and provide them with the support and guidance that I received. I also want to advocate for better mental health resources, education, and destigmatization in my community and beyond. In conclusion, my experience with mental illness has been challenging but ultimately transformative. It has taught me the importance of self-care, strengthened my relationships, and influenced my career aspirations. It has also made me more empathetic and understanding toward others who may be struggling with mental health issues. I believe that by sharing my story, I can help destigmatize mental illness and encourage others to seek help and take care of their mental health.

It hasn't always been easy growing up as an African American woman. Many obstacles shaped me into the wonderful woman I am today. Throughout my academic career, I've been denied most of the high achievements for which I've worked hard to be recognized. It always bothered me that a woman of my color couldn't receive these honors. This was very perplexing for me because I was a curious little girl. My grandmother taught me that there will be many people in my life who God will bring my way and send through trials and tribulations. Growing up, I used her words to describe my daily life experiences. I still used those words after she died. Unlike the other children, I did not have both of my parents. My mother came and went in my life, but I always felt the love she had for me. I moved in with my aunt after my grandmother died. Because she was a new person in my life, I thought she was mean and scary at first, but I grew to appreciate her love and affection for me. Throughout elementary school, I was bullied in various ways and tried to protect myself by becoming the bully. I learned that no matter what the other party says to me, I cannot be mean to them when I am advocating for myself. I was barred from participating in a few activities with the other kids because of my skin color. Some of the kids did not want me in their group. I was dubbed "the loud black girl." Despite this, I had a lot of friends because of my outgoing personality, which spread all over the world. During this time, I was constantly getting into mischief. I was overly chatty, which disrupted the class. I took the time to change myself for the better and in accordance with society's expectations. My mother told me that it is difficult to be accepted in society, but that I should never change myself for anyone else and should always be myself. I listened and took those words to heart for the rest of my life. My life began to change during my middle and high school years. I was maturing and maturing into a young lady. I had to make a name for myself in some way. During middle school, I began to focus more on my education and how I would start high school. During that time, I had my ups and downs, but overall, I became my biggest obstacle. I began to learn more about myself and my body in middle school, which was always perplexing to me. I wasn't prepared to grow up and become a big girl. I was terrified that the real world would devour me. I was beginning to understand what God had in store for me as a woman. During my high school years, I experienced both the best and worst times of my life. I started with honors, hoping to learn more and achieve more. In the years following high school, I experienced both the best and worst times of my life. In the year 2020, I experienced a tragic event in my life. My mother's passing This was at the start of the global pandemic. I'd lost all academic motivation and wanted to go to college. Over the course of a few months, I was in despair and distraught. Losing two close family members is not an easy thing to go through. At the time, I met my mother's aunt, who reminded me of my mother immediately. She immediately filled the dark hole within me with warmth and happiness. I knew my mother would have wanted me to go to college because she was unable to complete high school due to having me. I began to regain my enthusiasm for education. Throughout my high school career, I received numerous awards and recognition, the best of which was being an amazing sister to my three younger brothers. I've faced many tragedies and lost motivation throughout my life, but I've never stopped striving for greater things, for which I'd like to thank my family, peers, and teachers. Life's challenges have carved and shaped me into the beautiful woman I am today. I want to be a good role model for my younger brothers, encouraging them to do the things our mother and grandmother taught me.

Throughout elementary school, I was bullied in various ways and tried to protect myself by becoming the bully. I learned that no matter what the other party says to me, I cannot be mean to them when I am advocating for myself. I was barred from participating in a few activities with the other kids because of my skin color. Some of the kids did not want me in their group. I was dubbed "the loud black girl." Despite this, I had a lot of friends because of my outgoing personality, which spread all over the world. During this time, I was constantly getting into mischief. I was overly chatty, which disrupted the class. I took the time to change myself for the better and in accordance with society's expectations. My mother told me that it is difficult to be accepted in society, but that I should never change myself for anyone else and should always be myself. I listened and took those words to heart for the rest of my life. My life began to change during my middle and high school years. I was maturing and maturing into a young lady. I had to make a name for myself in some way. During middle school, I began to focus more on my education and how I would start high school. During that time, I had my ups and downs, but overall, I became my biggest obstacle. I began to learn more about myself and my body in middle school, which was always perplexing to me. I wasn't prepared to grow up and become a big girl. I was terrified that the real world would devour me. I was beginning to understand what God had in store for me as a woman. During my high school years, I experienced both the best and worst times of my life. I started with honors, hoping to learn more and achieve more. In the years following high school, I experienced both the best and worst times of my life. In the year 2020, I experienced a tragic event in my life. My mother's passing This was at the start of the global pandemic. I'd lost all academic motivation and wanted to go to college. Over a few months, I was in despair and distraught. Losing two close family members is not an easy thing to go through. At the time, I met my mother's aunt, who reminded me of my mother immediately. She immediately filled the dark hole within me with warmth and happiness. I knew my mother would have wanted me to go to college because she was unable to complete high school due to having me. I began to regain my enthusiasm for education. Throughout my high school career, I received numerous awards and recognition, the best of which was being an amazing sister to my three younger brothers. I've faced many tragedies and lost motivation throughout my life, but I've never stopped striving for greater things, for which I'd like to thank my family, peers, and teachers. Life's challenges have carved and shaped me into the beautiful woman I am today. I want to be a good role model for my younger brothers, encouraging them to do the things our mother and grandmother taught me.

My name is Ja'Niya. My mother's best friend gave me this name. My mother's name is Jessica and her best friend's name was Anna. I did a lot of research on my name, learning that it's of Hebrew origin, which I find unique. Most people with the name Ja'Niya have it spelled like Janiyah or Janiya. Ja'Niya, I'd say I'm very important. Every move I make makes a difference. Everyone's name holds power, no matter how many people in the world share the same name. I think the fact we have people that share our name creates more value in our name, to be known as someone who can be a different person but has your name. When using the words mother, grandmother, and grandfather, hold value and power. Knowing that it's not that actual name, but their title holds power towards them because we see them as an important person in our life like we are their daughter, son, or grandchild.

I would love to help provide for my brothers, my mother passed away in the year 2020. I want to become a neurosurgeon to do something, I love is the human brain. I would love to use those skills to support my brothers.