As a woman of color living in Texas, I am personally motivated to confront the alarming gender disparities that persist within our state. The current state of inequality is deeply concerning and demands immediate attention and action. According to a report by KHOU 11, the wage gap in Texas is a stark reality that cannot be ignored. White women earn only 70 cents for every dollar earned by their white male counterparts. This wage gap widens even further for black women, who earn a mere 45 cents, and Hispanic women, who face even greater disparities at just 38 cents. These statistics represent the same job, highlighting the harsh reality that our society still views color and gender as limiting factors. These staggering numbers underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and equitable practices and policies to address the deeply rooted systemic inequalities that women face. Furthermore, the recent restrictions placed on reproductive rights under Greg Abbott's abortion ban have disproportionately affected women in Texas. This ban infringes upon our fundamental right to make decisions about our own bodies and reproductive health. It is a glaring example of how gender disparities extend beyond the realm of wages and permeate into areas of personal autonomy and access to healthcare. It is imperative that we fight against such regressive policies and ensure that every woman has agency over her own body and reproductive choices. In a world where technological advancements like solar-powered cars, genome editing, and Artificial Intelligence are becoming a reality, it is disheartening that women still face inequality and are not seen as equals. We are often expected to fulfill traditional roles and conform to societal expectations, limiting our potential. The struggle for gender equality is not a new one. Women in the 1920s had to fight tirelessly for their right to vote, and now it is our turn to fight for the right to be equal in every aspect of life. As a data engineering scientist, I am driven to leverage data and research to expose and address these disparities head-on. By delving into the numbers and conducting comprehensive analyses, I aim to uncover the underlying factors that contribute to gender inequality in Texas. Through evidence-backed insights, I hope to serve as a catalyst for change and contribute to the development of strategies and policies that promote gender equality. However, research alone is not enough. I am committed to making a tangible impact through activism and advocacy. By raising awareness about these disparities and collaborating with community organizations, policymakers, and fellow advocates, I strive to enact meaningful change. I am determined to participate in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, ensuring that women of color have equal opportunities to thrive and succeed. By combining my technical skills in data engineering with my passion for social justice, I hope to shape a future where gender disparities are eradicated, and all women, regardless of their race or ethnicity, are afforded equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources. Together, we can create a more equitable Texas that uplifts and empowers every individual, breaking down the barriers that hinder progress and fostering a society where gender equality is not just an aspiration but the norm. It is time for us to stand up, speak out, and work relentlessly towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their gender or background, can thrive and succeed.

CRISPR genome editing is a groundbreaking technology that has the potential to revolutionize medicine and make the world a better place. CRISPR, which stands for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, allows scientists to precisely modify genes, offering new possibilities for treating genetic diseases, preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and advancing agricultural practices. One inspiring aspect of CRISPR is its potential to cure diseases that were once considered incurable. By targeting and modifying specific genes associated with genetic disorders, CRISPR can potentially correct the underlying genetic mutations that cause these diseases. This opens up avenues for treating conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and muscular dystrophy. By directly addressing the root causes of these diseases, CRISPR has the potential to significantly improve the lives of individuals and families affected by genetic disorders. Moreover, CRISPR played a pivotal role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines. The technology was used to rapidly identify and decode the genetic sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which enabled scientists to understand its structure and develop effective vaccines. CRISPR's ability to precisely target and modify genetic material facilitated the quick development of vaccine candidates, providing hope in the midst of a global pandemic. This highlights how CRISPR can be harnessed to respond to emergent public health crises and protect communities worldwide. Additionally, CRISPR has the potential to address global food security challenges. By using CRISPR to edit the genes of crops and livestock, scientists can enhance their resistance to diseases, pests, and environmental stresses. This technology offers the possibility of developing more resilient and nutritious crops that can thrive in adverse conditions, ultimately improving agricultural productivity and sustainability. With a growing global population and increasing strain on resources, CRISPR holds promise for ensuring food security and addressing hunger-related issues. In conclusion, CRISPR genome editing inspires me due to its potential to cure genetic diseases, its contribution to the development of COVID-19 vaccines, and its potential to address global food security challenges. While there are ethical considerations that need to be carefully navigated, the transformative impact of CRISPR on human health and agriculture demonstrates the remarkable power of technology to make the world a better place.

Throughout my academic journey as a double major in data science, specializing in computational intelligence and social data analytics, I have developed a deep passion for exploring the vast potential of neural networks and the exciting realm of quantum computing. However, my aspirations extend beyond mere technological exploration. I believe that data science has the power to bring about significant positive change in society, particularly in the field of healthcare, where disparities are prevalent. One of my primary goals is to conduct research that sheds light on the alarming health disparities that exist today. By leveraging data science techniques and methodologies, I aim to analyze extensive datasets and highlight the disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Through this research, I intend to raise awareness and advocate for a more equitable healthcare system, where every individual, regardless of their background, has equal access to quality care and resources. Furthermore, I am driven to revolutionize the way diseases are diagnosed and treated using data science. My vision is to create an intelligent system that combines artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to serve as a comprehensive, living textbook. This system will continuously update and catalog information on various medical conditions, enabling healthcare professionals to access a vast database that is customizable based on factors such as age, gender, race, and location. This personalized approach to medical knowledge will not only enhance the accuracy and speed of diagnoses. Still, it will also contribute to more effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique circumstances. I firmly believe that education and knowledge-sharing are fundamental to progress in the STEM community. As a scholarship recipient, I am committed to utilizing my education and expertise to contribute to advancing the STEM field. I aspire to actively participate in research projects, collaborate with fellow researchers, and engage in interdisciplinary discussions that promote innovation and drive meaningful change. Through these collaborations, I aim to push the boundaries of data science, explore the potential of quantum computing, and inspire future generations of aspiring scientists and researchers. Moreover, I recognize the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the STEM community. As a person of color, I am keenly aware of the underrepresentation of individuals from marginalized communities in the field. Therefore, I am dedicated to being a mentor and advocate for aspiring students, particularly those who face barriers and lack representation. By sharing my experiences and providing guidance, I hope to empower and encourage others to pursue their passions in STEM. Being awarded this scholarship would greatly benefit me as a data science student in Mississippi. With limited resources and opportunities in a developing curriculum, the financial support would allow me to focus on my studies, access additional learning materials, and stay updated on advancements. It would also alleviate the financial burden, enabling me to pursue research opportunities, seek educational resources, and participate in activities promoting diversity in STEM. Overall, this scholarship would enhance my educational journey and enable me to make a meaningful impact in data science. In conclusion, I firmly believe that my educational background in data science, combined with my aspirations to address health disparities, revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment, and contribute to the STEM community, make me a deserving candidate for this scholarship. I am committed to utilizing my education, skills, and passion for data science to drive positive change, foster inclusivity, and contribute to the advancement of the STEM field. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can make a significant impact and contribute to a more equitable and innovative future.

Being an upstander means actively standing up for what is right, advocating for change, and using my voice and actions to make a positive impact. As a person of color and a data science student, I am dedicated to using my degree and skills to address and diminish racial disparities, not only within the medical field but also across all sectors influenced by bias. One of the ways I plan to be an up-stander is by actively promoting diversity and inclusivity within my own community. In addition to engaging in conversations surrounding racial and social justice, challenging stereotypes, and fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued, I also actively participate in my local church in Kendleton. This town holds a significant historical background, tracing its roots back to the abolition of slavery. Unfortunately, Kendleton has faced a decline in prosperity over time, transforming from a vibrant society to a ghost town situated along the interstate. This decline can be attributed to a lack of funding, which is often influenced by the ethnic backgrounds of its residents. Despite these challenges, I am determined to play a role in revitalizing the community by advocating for increased funding and resources, promoting unity among residents, and working towards creating opportunities that celebrate and embrace the diverse heritage of Kendleton. Through my actions, I aim to foster a sense of belonging, empower individuals to have their voices heard, and contribute to the resurgence of Kendleton as a thriving and inclusive community. In terms of my academic pursuits, I aspire to utilize data science as a powerful tool to dismantle systemic biases. By analyzing large datasets, identifying patterns, and examining disparities, I can bring attention to the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities that perpetuate health disparities among marginalized communities. Through my research, I aim to provide evidence-based insights that support policy changes and initiatives aimed at promoting equity and reducing disparities. Additionally, I understand that collaboration is vital in creating sustainable change. As an up-stander, I plan to actively seek partnerships with community organizations, healthcare institutions, and advocacy groups. By joining forces, we can pool our knowledge, resources, and expertise to develop innovative solutions that address the multifaceted challenges faced by disadvantaged communities. Together, we can advocate for equal access to quality healthcare, educational opportunities, and employment prospects, ensuring that marginalized individuals are not left behind due to systemic barriers. Furthermore, I recognize the importance of education and empowerment in building a stronger community. As an up-stander, I aim to share my knowledge and skills with others, particularly individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. By mentoring and providing support to aspiring POC students in STEM fields, I hope to inspire and empower them to pursue their dreams and make a difference in their respective communities. Through workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs, I intend to contribute to the growth and development of future generations, helping to bridge the gaps and create a more equitable society. In conclusion, as an up-stander, I am committed to using my voice, skills, and data science expertise to address health disparities and challenge bias in all sectors. By actively engaging with my community, collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations, and empowering the next generation, I aspire to contribute to the creation of a more inclusive, just, and equitable society. Through these efforts, I aim to make a lasting impact on diminishing disparities and fostering positive change.

In today's society, we must undergo a significant transformation in our response to the challenges faced by the disadvantaged. This essay argues that fostering inclusivity, creating safe spaces, and dismantling systemic barriers are essential steps towards addressing inequality and promoting diversity. By examining the power of empathy, understanding, and systemic change, it becomes evident that a shift in societal response is both necessary and beneficial. Creating safe spaces and promoting inclusivity are vital aspects of transforming societal responses. It is crucial to recognize and respect the diverse experiences and identities of individuals who face disadvantages. By fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and respected, we can cultivate a sense of belonging and empower individuals to thrive. Such inclusive spaces provide the opportunity for people from all backgrounds to contribute their unique talents, perspectives, and ideas, ultimately benefiting society as a whole. Dismantling systemic barriers is equally important in achieving equality and justice. Often, the disadvantaged face obstacles resulting from deep-rooted biases, discriminatory policies, and structural inequalities. By actively challenging these systemic issues, we can work towards creating a level playing field that offers equal opportunities for all. This requires examining and addressing institutional practices that perpetuate inequality, including biased hiring processes, unequal access to education and healthcare, and discriminatory policies that disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Empathy and understanding play a crucial role in transforming societal responses. Taking the time to listen, learn, and understand the challenges faced by the disadvantaged fosters empathy and helps break down barriers of ignorance and prejudice. By embracing empathy, we can develop a more compassionate and proactive response to the problems faced by marginalized communities. It is important to recognize that the struggles experienced by the disadvantaged are not isolated incidents but are often symptoms of larger systemic issues. By addressing the root causes of inequality, we can work toward sustainable change that uplifts marginalized communities and ensures equal opportunities for all. In conclusion, society must undergo a significant transformation in responding to the problems faced by the disadvantaged. By creating safe spaces, dismantling systemic barriers, and embracing empathy and understanding, we can foster inclusivity, promote diversity, and address inequality effectively. This transformative shift is not only necessary for the well-being and progress of the disadvantaged but is also a moral imperative that reflects our commitment to equality and justice. Through collective action, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.