Growing up as a minority woman in South Carolina, I did not often see people who looked like me in STEM fields. Engineering, in particular, felt like a space where I would have to prove myself more than others. Instead of discouraging me, that realization became one of the main reasons I chose to pursue mechanical engineering. Throughout my academic journey, I have often found myself as one of the only women and sometimes the only minority in my classes. At first, this was intimidating. There were moments where I questioned whether I truly belonged, especially in challenging courses like physics, statics, and electrical engineering. These subjects pushed me far outside of my comfort zone, and at times, I struggled to keep up. However, those experiences forced me to develop resilience, discipline, and confidence in my ability to learn difficult material. Being underrepresented has made me more aware of the importance of visibility. When you do not see people like yourself in a field, it can be easy to feel like you are not meant to be there. I realized that by continuing in engineering, I could become part of the representation that is currently missing. I want younger girls, especially those from minority backgrounds, to see someone like me and believe that they can succeed in STEM too. In addition to academic challenges, balancing financial responsibilities and school has also shaped my journey. Working while studying engineering has required strong time management and determination. There have been moments where the stress of finances and coursework felt overwhelming, but those obstacles have strengthened my work ethic and reinforced my commitment to my goals. My passion for engineering comes from my desire to create practical solutions that improve people’s lives. Through my coursework and projects, I have developed skills in design, problem-solving, and critical thinking. One of my goals is to work in an engineering role where I can contribute to real-world innovations while continuing to grow professionally. I am particularly interested in opportunities that allow me to work on projects that have a meaningful impact on communities. Looking toward the future, I want to do more than just succeed in my own career. I want to help others along the way. I plan to mentor younger students, especially women and minorities, who are interested in STEM but may feel unsure about pursuing it. Whether through tutoring, mentorship programs, or simply sharing my experiences, I hope to provide the encouragement and guidance that I once needed myself. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education, but it would also serve as a reminder that my journey matters. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and continue pushing forward in a field where diversity is still growing. My experiences as a minority woman have not limited me, they have shaped my strength, my ambition, and my purpose. I am determined to use my education in STEM not only to build a successful career, but also to help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for future generations.