Like a garden that flourishes despite challenging conditions, my journey in higher education demonstrates the power of persistence and determination. As an international student from Jamaica studying computer science in the United States, I've learnt that success, like gardening, involves patience, dedication, and perseverance. Growing up in an inner-city community, I saw firsthand how limited chances may hinder potential. Rather than accept these limits, I chose to pursue a career in technology, where women, particularly those from underdeveloped countries, are underrepresented. My road has not been without hurdles, but each one has only increased my resolve. A critical milestone in my academic career occurred when I failed a major calculus class required for my Computer Science major. This setback may have destroyed my aspirations, but I followed the mantra "delayed but not denied." I saw my high school friends moving on to university and getting ahead in life, and instead of giving up, I used this experience to deepen my understanding. I retook the class with renewed determination, set goals, and eventually passed my Calculus class, learning key lessons about perseverance and the importance of seeing setbacks as chances for progress. This event showed one of my best strengths: perseverance. When faced with the need to take a gap year and retake calculus, I didn't allow discouragement to overshadow my goals. Instead, I approached the challenge with the aim of passing eventually, proving to myself and others that setbacks are merely setups for comebacks. As an international student, I encounter several financial challenges due to strict job restrictions that limit my ability to work. I rely significantly on scholarships and creative side hustles while actively seeking approved work opportunities, all while remaining focused on my academics. The Dream Valley Landscaping scholarship would greatly reduce my financial load, allowing me to focus more on my studies and community activities. My intellectual and professional aspirations transcend beyond personal accomplishment. My computer science degree will act as a bridge to help my family escape poverty while also demonstrating to young girls in Jamaica's inner cities that their dreams are valid and attainable. I believe that technology may be an effective instrument to boost social mobility and community development. This belief drives my commitment to community service. As the Vice President of the NSLS and Public Relations Officer of the Astro Math and Physics club at Barry University, i have gained a love for advocacy and showing society that females from humble beginnings can do the same as everyone else. I carry with me the hopes of countless girls who need to see that success in technology is possible for someone like them. I plan on organizing coding workshops and hackathons aimed primarily at introducing young females to programming and assisting them in developing the skills and confidence needed to pursue professions in technology. Dream Valley Landscaping transforms outdoor places into beautiful environments, and I hope to transform people's lives through technological education and mentoring. This scholarship would not only help me further my studies, but it would also assist nurture the seeds of change that I wish to plant in my community. With your help, I may continue to progress toward my goals while also assisting others to flourish. As I progress in my academic journey, I remain committed to cultivating not just my success, but also creating fertile ground for future generations of women in technology. Like a well-kept garden, I believe that with the right love and assistance, everyone has the potential to thrive and bloom despite their circumstances.

Rising Above: Facing Adversity with Unwavering Determination! In the face of adversity, the real test of one's character is not the absence of fear, but the courage to go on despite it. My journey from an inner-city community in Jamaica to pursuing computer science in the United States has been marked by hardships that tested my determination but never destroyed my spirit, much like Audra Dominguez's legacy of tenacity and bravery. As a female aspiring to succeed in STEM, I've faced both hidden and transparent challenges that could have derailed my progress. In Jamaica, where technological resources were limited and possibilities for women in technology were even less prevalent, I encountered the initial issue of limited access to programming education and computer-related jobs. Rather than accepting these constraints, I searched out internet cafes and borrowed textbooks, teaching myself basic coding principles whenever I had free time. The decision to leave my home country for the United States was perhaps my greatest test of courage. Leaving everything familiar - my family, culture, and support system - to pursue an education in a foreign country requires the same bravery that Audra exemplified her entire life. The mental toll of adjusting to a new country while taking a hard degree in computer science has been significant, but like Audra, I've learned to confront each challenge with tenacity and grace. Being the only woman of color in my computer science classes has brought a unique set of mental challenges. There are times when imposter syndrome threatens to overwhelm me, and the burden of being "different" feels particularly weighty. In these moments, I am inspired by Audra's example of overcoming adversity with unwavering courage. I've created strategies to overcome these feelings, including organizing study groups, utilizing the school counseling services, and, most importantly, reminding myself that my presence in these spaces is not just for my benefit but for all the young women who will follow. Financial difficulties have been another key obstacle in my journey. As an international student, I have strict employment restrictions that limit my ability to work, making it challenging to support myself financially. I rely significantly on scholarships and creative side hustles, while also constantly applying for approved work opportunities, all while striving for academic success. When the stress of making ends meet becomes unbearable, I recall my goal: to pave the road for future females from similar backgrounds who want to work in technology. This greater purpose, like Audra's motivating influence on others, gives me the courage to endure. To tackle these challenges, I've also formed a support network of mentors and colleagues who understand the specific constraints that international women experience in STEM. I've learned to advocate for myself and to see each hurdle as an opportunity to show my strength. When the coursework becomes particularly difficult, I divide big problems into simple steps, using the same methodical technique I use in programming to tackle life's hurdles and utilize the free tutoring sessions on campus. Audra's legacy reminds me that bravery isn't about avoiding fear or problems; it's about moving forward despite them. When I face difficulties in the future, I will be reminding myself of her resilience, and using these events to strengthen not only my technical skills but also my character. My journey in computer science is about more than just personal accomplishment; it's about showing other young women, particularly those from underprivileged homes, that with courage and drive, they, too, can overcome any hurdle in the pursuit of their aspirations.

The Path Less Traveled: Pursuing Dreams Beyond Borders Growing up in an inner-city community in Jamaica, I learned early on that education was the key to conquering the cycle of poverty. Like Carol B. Warren, who took on enormous responsibilities at an early age, I knew that my childhood and educational career would be anything but traditional. While many of my peers were lured to criminal activity and violence, I chose to design a different future, one based on technology and creativity. As a black female pursuing computer science, I frequently find myself in situations where few people look like me or share my background. Nonetheless, this simply reinforces my determination. When I heard Carol B. Warren's story about giving up her own education to raise her siblings when her father died, only to eventually achieve her GED in her fifties, I saw a reflection of the determination that drives me. I, like Carol, had setbacks. Before moving to the United States, I had to take a gap year to raise cash for university. I saw my classmates moving ahead of me, but I clung to my favorite mantra: "Delayed but not denied" and look at me now a Deans List student at Barry University. Just like Carol, I understand that education isn't just about personal achievement; it's about lifting up those we love. My choice to leave Jamaica for the United States to pursue computer science was more than just following my personal dreams. Every line of code I write, every formula I master, symbolizes hope for my family back home. Carol's determination led to her daughters becoming successful professionals, and I hope to generate a positive ripple effect of change. My degree will serve as a bridge to assist pull my family out of poverty while also demonstrating to young girls in Jamaica's inner cities that their ambitions are valid and attainable. The similarities between Carol's and my lives go beyond the fact that we pursued nontraditional educational routes. Carol's dedication to earning her GED in her fifties reflects the values I hold dear: that education is never too late and that our potential is not limited by our circumstances. I have particular difficulties because I'm a woman in STEM from a developing country, but like Carol, I don't let that stop me from pursuing my goals. This scholarship would be extremely beneficial in allowing me to complete my computer science education. Beyond covering important school fees, it would allow me to devote more time to my studies and programming projects, rather than working numerous jobs to make ends meet. More significantly, it would allow me to maintain the high academic standards required to act as a role model for other young women from similar circumstances. Carol B. Warren's legacy demonstrates that education can improve not only individual lives, but entire families and communities. As I work toward my degree, I carry the hopes of countless girls who need to realize that they, too, can achieve in technology. Like Carol, who inspired her children through her actions, I want to demonstrate that with determination and support, we can overcome any obstacle. Just as Carol's educational career inspired her family, my quest in computer science intends to do the same for others. With this scholarship's support, I can continue breaking barriers in STEM, contributing to a future where more non-traditional students, particularly women from underdeveloped countries, may see themselves represented in technology fields.

Growing up in Tivoli Gardens, Kingston, the daily symphony of life wasn't just the reggae music floating through zinc fences – it was also the sound of my mother's footsteps at 4 AM as she left for her market stall, determined to provide for our family of five. Our one-room home taught me early lessons about resourcefulness and determination. When electricity was inconsistent, I studied under streetlights, using every precious moment of illumination to advance my education. The challenges of our environment were real: the temptation of quick money through unsavory means, the echo of gunshots that sometimes interrupted my studies, and the skeptical looks from those who questioned whether a "ghetto youth" could achieve academic excellence. But these obstacles became my fuel. I transformed our financial constraints into creativity – teaching myself computer programming using borrowed books from the library and practicing coding on paper when I couldn't access a computer. Looking ahead, I plan to create a coding workshop program for youth in my community. My vision is to gather students in the community center, using computers to teach basic programming skills. My goal is to expand this initiative into a full-scale technology training center in Kingston, providing inner-city youth with digital skills that can break the cycle of poverty. I'm currently pursuing my Computer Science degree. However, I don't have a job to pay for certain expenses because jobs are limited for International students. So this Lotus scholarship might seem small to some but it will remove much of my financial weight from me. My journey has taught me that success isn't just about individual achievement – it's about lifting others as you climb. Every challenge I've faced has strengthened my resolve to create pathways for others.

Growing up in Jamaica ingrained in me a deep appreciation of the outdoors in addition to a strong concern for the environment. The sight of trees being cut down for metropolitan growth, as well as the struggle to keep green spaces in our cities, left an indelible mark on me. This early exposure to the conflict between development and environmental protection fueled my desire to find innovative methods to balance urban growth with ecological management. Innovative software provides great potential for tackling societal issues, particularly in food security, sustainable agriculture, and urban planning. Precision farming software has the potential to transform agricultural operations by delivering real-time information into soil health, ideal planting periods, and resource management. For example, a system customized to Jamaica's tropical climate might significantly enhance crop yields while reducing environmental impact, assuring food security for our island and beyond. Furthermore, I believe that the industry wastes too much electricity to run agricultural machines instead of utilizing the sun to generate energy. So I feel that combining technology and silat energy to develop an affordable option for agricultural equipment would be an excellent implementation. Food waste is a serious problem that I have personally seen in Jamaica, and it can be addressed with optimization of the supply chain tools. A clever logistics system might guarantee effective distribution, reducing waste and improving every community's access to wholesome food. Open platforms for traffic management in urban planning have the potential to improve air quality and reduce pollution on crowded streets. Software for energy efficiency could enhance power distribution, resulting in more dependable availability to electricity and reduced prices for locals. Software for public service optimization may simplify everything, including emergency response and garbage management, and result in safer, more habitable cities that respect and blend in with the surrounding environment. These software programs may encourage diversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. I guarantee that communities of all sizes and economic backgrounds may benefit by making these technologies open source. Leveling the playing field, small-scale farmers in rural Jamaica and externally America have access to the same precision farming techniques as giant agricultural enterprises. Similar to larger cities, smaller communities can also improve quality of life and draw in new enterprises by implementing smart city solutions without massive resources. The value of community engagement can be fostered via these advances. User-friendly interfaces allow citizens to participate in urban planning choices, ensuring that development meets community requirements. Local knowledge can be incorporated into precision farming techniques in agriculture to maintain customs while increasing output. My Jamaican heritage serves as inspiration for two initiatives that I am planning that will use these ideas. First, there's an open-source precision farming tool designed specifically for small-scale tropical farmers. Using simple smartphones, this software will offer crop advice, soil health analysis, and localized weather forecasts. The objective is to combine traditional farming knowledge with contemporary data analytics by collaborating with regional agriculture services. My second project that I dream to execute would be centred on urban planning and green space protection. I would create an augmented reality platform that will enable individuals to visualize and engage in urban development projects. Users can view proposed changes to their neighborhood, make suggestions to maintain green places, and propose environmentally friendly initiatives. This technology will democratize urban planning by ensuring that development reflects the community's desire for a balanced mixture of urban convenience and rural splendor. This scholarship is not just financial aid; It's the catalyst that will transform these projects from aspirational thoughts to tangible realities.

Pow Pow! The staccato rhythm of gunshots punctuated the humid air, providing a somber backdrop to my nightly quest for knowledge as I studied my books in my room, shared with my two sisters. In the concrete jungle of Trench Town, Jamaica, where dreams frequently wither under the harsh light of poverty, I cultivated a fragile hope, with each page turning a silent act of resistance against the chaos outside my window.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ As a young black woman aspiring to work in STEM, I confronted not just the constraints of my hometown but also the cultural expectations and limits that people like me are typically subjected to. Nonetheless, it was precisely these hurdles that motivated me to pursue higher study in the United States. I saw school as a way to break free from the shackles of poverty and violence that surrounded me, as well as a way to return and make a difference in my community. Despite hardship and skepticism shouting, "You can't" , my passion for STEM roared louder. Now, at 20, I stand as a testament to perseverance. The dominant cybercrime in Jamaica played a significant role in influencing my academic ambitions. I saw personally how computer vulnerabilities were exploited, frequently for rapid financial gain. This realization triggered my interest in cybersecurity and motivated me to be at the forefront of protecting digital infrastructures. As a sophomore in Barry University's Honors program, attending on a partial scholarship, I've already defied the odds. But my journey is far from over. The Dreamers Scholarship represents more than financial aid; Each scholarship I receive sends a message to the young ladies in the Caribbean that their ambitions are real, that higher education is possible, that their background is not a barrier, but rather a source of strength and that if I can do it they can too. Looking ahead, my post-graduate ambitions are ambitious but focused. I intend to return to Jamaica with cutting-edge knowledge in cybersecurity and computer science. I believe that computer science has the potential to address complex societal problems in several ways. My ambition is to build a cybersecurity firm that not only protects Jamaican businesses from digital attacks, but also educates the next generation about career options in technology. Moreover, I am passionate about encouraging more girls and women to pursue careers in STEM. I plan to establish mentorship programs and coding workshops in underserved communities across Jamaica and the USA. As an international student on a partial scholarship, I've had to prioritize textbooks before food. This additional scholarship will not only cover the tuition gap, but will also give resources for coding equipment, access to online courses, and participation in tech conferences, all of which are required to stay on the cutting edge of my industry. This scholarship would be extremely beneficial in helping me reach these objectives. It would relieve financial concerns, allowing me to concentrate more on my education and extracurricular activities. With this support, I'm convinced that I'll be able to not only achieve, but also exceed, my goals in computer science. By investing in my education, this scholarship is investing in Jamaica's future, the hopes of countless Trench Town girls, and the development of industries critical to my country's economy. It's not just helping me get a degree; it's also preparing me to return home as a change agent, armed with knowledge, skills, and a network to make my dreams a reality.

Pow Pow! The staccato rhythm of gunshots punctuated the humid air, providing a somber backdrop to my nightly quest for knowledge as I studied my books in my room, shared with my two sisters. In the concrete jungle of Trench Town, Jamaica, where dreams frequently wither under the harsh light of poverty, I cultivated a fragile hope, with each page-turning a silent act of resistance against the chaos outside my window.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ As a young black woman aspiring to work in STEM, I confronted not just the constraints of my hometown but also the cultural expectations and limits that people like me are typically subjected to. Nonetheless, it was precisely these hurdles that motivated me to pursue higher study in the United States. I saw school as a way to break free from the shackles of poverty and violence that surrounded me, as well as a way to return and make a difference in my community. Despite hardship and skepticism shouting, "You can't", my passion for STEM roared louder. Now, at 20, I stand as a testament to perseverance. The dominant cybercrime in Jamaica played a significant role in influencing my academic ambitions. I saw personally how computer vulnerabilities were exploited, frequently for rapid financial gain. This realization triggered my interest in cybersecurity and motivated me to be at the forefront of protecting digital infrastructures. As a sophomore in Barry University's Honors Program, attending on a partial scholarship, I've already defied the odds. But my journey is far from over. The Schmid Memorial Scholarship represents more than financial aid; Each scholarship I receive sends a message to the young ladies in the Caribbean that their ambitions are real, that higher education is possible, and that their background is not a barrier, but rather a source of strength and that if I can do it they can too. Looking ahead, my post-graduate ambitions are ambitious but focused. I intend to return to Jamaica with cutting-edge knowledge in cybersecurity and computer science. I believe that computer science has the potential to address complex societal problems in several ways. My ambition is to build a cybersecurity firm that not only protects Jamaican businesses from digital attacks, but also educates the next generation about career options in technology. Moreover, I am passionate about encouraging more girls and women to pursue careers in STEM. I plan to establish mentorship programs and coding workshops in underserved communities across Jamaica and the USA. This scholarship would be extremely beneficial in helping me reach these objectives. It would relieve financial concerns, allowing me to concentrate more on my education and extracurricular activities. Furthermore, it would provide me with the funds to invest in electronics and courses, allowing me to accelerate my studies and expand my skill set. With this support, I'm convinced that I'll be able to not only achieve but also exceed, my goals in computer science.

Pow Pow! The staccato rhythm of gunshots punctuated the humid air, providing a somber backdrop to my nightly quest for knowledge as I studied my books in my room, shared with my two sisters. In the concrete jungle of Trench Town, Jamaica, where dreams frequently wither under the harsh light of poverty, I cultivated a fragile hope, with each page turning a silent act of resistance against the chaos outside my window.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ As a young black woman aspiring to work in STEM, I confronted not just the constraints of my hometown setting but also the broader cultural expectations and limits that people like me are typically subjected to. Nonetheless, it was precisely these hurdles that motivated me to pursue higher study in the United States. I saw school as a way to break free from the shackles of poverty and violence that surrounded me, as well as a way to return and make a difference in my community. The dominant cybercrime in Jamaica played a significant role in influencing my academic ambitions. I saw personally how computer vulnerabilities were exploited, frequently for rapid financial advantage. This realization triggered my interest in cybersecurity and motivated me to be at the forefront of protecting digital infrastructures. One of the most difficult challenges I faced was an unrelenting desire to take shortcuts for financial benefit. In a poverty-stricken town, the appeal of quick money through unlawful methods is continuous. Many of my peers gave in to this temptation, but I remained strong in my belief that education and honest work were the only roads to long-term success. This experience taught me the value of integrity and the importance of overcoming hardship. It reaffirmed my belief that true, long-term change requires dedication and ethical decisions, not short fixes. My parents have been pillars of strength for me during this journey. Despite their meager resources, they have given all to guarantee that I may pursue my aspirations. Watching them work tirelessly, often in several jobs, to support my education has been both humbling and inspiring. Their steadfast conviction in the importance of education, despite the fact that they did not have the opportunity to pursue it, has been my driving force. Their resilience in the face of adversity has taught me that with determination and hard effort, no dream is impossible to fulfil, and as such, my parents are my inspiration. Looking ahead, my post-graduate ambitions are ambitious but focused. I intend to return to Jamaica with cutting-edge knowledge in cybersecurity and computer science. My ambition is to build a cybersecurity firm that not only protects Jamaican businesses and government institutions from digital attacks, but also educates the next generation about career options in technology. I intend to establish a tech incubator in Trench Town that will provide resources and mentorship to budding programmers and entrepreneurs from poor backgrounds. Furthermore, I intend to collaborate closely with law enforcement organizations to prevent cybercrime by designing programs that lead potential offenders toward legitimate computer employment. By doing so, I intend to address the core causes of digital crime while also inspiring a new generation of tech pioneers in Jamaica. I am passionate about encouraging more girls and women to pursue careers in STEM. I plan to establish mentorship programs and coding workshops in underserved communities across Jamaica and externally the USA. Finally, through these efforts, I hope to be a catalyst for change, reshaping Jamaica's digital landscape and demonstrating that with education and chance, even individuals from the most difficult circumstances can rise to make a positive influence on their community and country.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Growing up in Trench Town, Jamaica, as a young black girl, I studied in my room, which I shared with my two sisters, while the sound of gunfire echoed throughout the night. These weren't just noises; they were reminders of the life I was struggling to avoid. Every day was a struggle against conformity to crime. The streets offered easy money and a hazardous temptation, but I stuck to my books, determined to create a new story for myself. My educational goals seemed unattainable, especially with the heavy weight of out-of-state tuition looming overhead. When I obtained a partial university scholarship, I burst into tears of relief. It was more than just financial assistance; it was proof that my hardships and determination were recognized and acknowledged. However, my journey as an international student has been filled with difficulties. In a world where social media popularity and fast scams offer instant success, why pursue a degree? For me, my forthcoming computer science degree is more than just a way to get money. This degree reflects every gunshot sound I've survived, every temptation I've rejected, and every uncertainty I've conquered. This degree will demonstrate that a girl from the inner city can excel in a male-dominated field called STEM. It is about coming home with the ability to create change by developing technologies that will elevate my country’s agriculture and tourism industry using AI. Every line of code I write takes me one step closer to the future I dare to create, rather than the life I was expected to lead. This road is not easy, but it is vital. Because, ultimately, I'm fighting for a future in which girls looking at my story to come, can dream beyond the constraints of their circumstances.

Dear Future Self, Life is an ongoing path of self-improvement, with each year providing an opportunity to become a better version of ourselves. As I am almost halfway through my academic adventure in computer science at Barry University, I make three promises to my future self, each one a stepping stone to a better future. My first vow is to be a light of cybersecurity in Jamaica, combatting the rising wave of scams and cybercrime that threatens my country. I intend to return to Jamaica armed with cutting-edge knowledge and abilities, ready to transform our digital world. I plan to create educational initiatives to improve knowledge about internet safety, focusing on the most vulnerable communities to cyber dangers. By establishing a cybersecurity think tank in Kingston, I hope to promote innovation and offer job possibilities for local talent. This commitment is more than just combatting crime; it is about developing Jamaica into the Caribbean's digital hub. Second, I commit to leaving a long-lasting legacy for black girls in Trench Town and other underprivileged neighborhoods. I promise to launch programs to develop STEM talent in inner-city communities. This program will consist of annual hackathons, coding boot camps, and mentorship programs. I'll schedule webinars with accomplished women in tech from comparable backgrounds to serve as relatable role models for aspiring young ladies. My goal is to have at least 100 females from impoverished backgrounds pursue STEM areas each year by 2035. My third promise is to lead the integration of technology into Jamaica's traditional industries, particularly agriculture and tourism. Jonae, from a very tender age, we have always been drawn to nature and the idea of eating what you grow. The infrastructure being built in Jamaica and the cutting down of our trees are causing damage to our beloved land. I pledge to create smart farming solutions that use AI and IoT to boost crop yields while reducing water consumption and assuring food security for future generations. In tourism, I plan to build immersive AR/VR experiences that highlight Jamaica's rich culture and natural beauty to a global audience, thereby improving our economy and creating job opportunities. This scholarship plays an essential part in fulfilling these promises and developing a brighter future for future me. It will relieve the financial load that has been a constant presence in my life. Growing up in the inner city of Trench Town, where gunshots frequently interrupted my studies, financial stability seemed like a distant fantasy. As an international student on a partial scholarship, I've had to prioritize textbooks before food. This additional scholarship will not only cover the tuition gap, but will also give resources for coding equipment, access to online courses, and participation in tech conferences, all of which are required to stay on the cutting edge of my industry. My journey from Trench Town to the honors program student of a top university in the USA has been established by perseverance and sacrifice. This award is more than just financial aid; it's a vote of confidence in my ability to effect meaningful change. It will allow me to concentrate only on my schoolwork and extracurricular activities, rather than stressing about how to pay for the following semester. By investing in my education, this scholarship is investing in Jamaica's future, the hopes of countless Trench Town girls, and the development of industries critical to my country's economy. It's not just helping me get a degree; it's also preparing me to return home as a change agent, armed with knowledge, skills, and a network to make my dreams a reality.