As an African American woman, I have found joy and purpose in blending creativity and logic, innovation and discipline. My two passions—technology and dance—have not only helped me grow as an individual but also shaped my goals for the future. My aspirations in computer science and beyond are rooted in this harmony, and I hope to combine these fields to make a meaningful impact on the world. My journey into computer science began with curiosity and determination. Teaching myself HTML and CSS introduced me to the thrill of problem-solving and the excitement of creating meaningful projects with real-world applications. As I dive deeper into coding, I’ve learned how to think critically and adapt to challenges. In the future, I plan to pursue a computer science degree, mastering advanced programming languages and exploring cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence and user experience design. My ultimate goal is to create innovative projects that connect people and improve lives. For instance, I envision designing platforms that promote community, accessibility, and collaboration in various industries. Beyond technology, my passion for dance has been a powerful source of inspiration and growth. Dance has been a way to express myself, especially as I’ve worked through challenges like social anxiety. Performing on stage has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of teaching young dancers, ages 5-10, at a local studio. Watching them grow and succeed has deepened my commitment to mentoring and fostering community. As a Black woman, representation matters, and I take pride in being a role model for young girls who see themselves in me. My non-computer science goals include continuing to teach and inspire through dance, as well as prioritizing my personal growth by managing my anxiety and embracing new opportunities for self-discovery. What excites me most is the opportunity to combine my passions for computer science and dance. I dream of developing innovative tools that integrate technology with the arts. For example, I could create interactive applications that connect dancers worldwide or tools that use motion capture technology to help choreographers bring their visions to life. By bridging the gap between these fields, I hope to contribute to the evolution of both technology and artistic expression. Ultimately, my goals are driven by a desire to inspire others and make a positive impact. Whether through coding or choreography, I aim to build connections, foster creativity, and demonstrate the power of perseverance. I look forward to a future where technology and the arts work together to shape a more connected and inclusive world.

iPads can contribute to making the world a better place in several ways, especially in the realms of education and societal development. Here are some key areas where iPads have shown a positive impact in my life. iPads have been widely adopted in educational settings, where they are used to inspire creativity and hands-on learning. They have shown significant promise in learning, often leading to improvements in my academic performance. iPads offer a range of educational apps that enhance my learning experiences, promote active learning, and increase my student engagement in many classes. I currently attend a performing arts high school and many of my teachers allow us to show our creativity in our assignments through various projects using technology. The iPad has various tools that I use to edit photos, videos, and much more. I am visually impaired and the accessibility tools on the iPad have helped me tremendously. iPads come with built-in accessibility features that can help people like me with disabilities by providing us with tools to communicate, learn, and interact with the world around us. One of my favorites is Voiceover. This tool reads whatever is on the screen. This was a lifesaver when I misplaced my glasses. iPads can reduce the need for paper, thus contributing to environmental conservation efforts. They can also facilitate remote work and learning, reducing the carbon footprint associated with travel. iPads enable people to connect with others around the world, fostering global communication and collaboration. This can lead to cultural exchange, shared knowledge, and a more interconnected world. Since Covid-19, school has adapted an online learning environment. Even though we are back in school physically, all of our work is delivered through Google Classroom. I am able to access my assignments on my iPad through the app and not have to walk around with a bulky laptop. The intuitive design and versatility of iPads encourage innovation. They can be used to create art, music, and other creative projects, pushing the boundaries of traditional media. For example, I used my iPad to create a weather anchor video for my science class in school. I was able to film the video and edit the video using iMovie and got a perfect score. In summary, iPads can enhance education, increase accessibility, contribute to environmental conservation, foster global connectivity, and drive innovation, all of which can make the world a better place.

Dance is my sanctuary. As an introverted person coping with social anxiety, the dance floor becomes my refuge—a place where I shed my inhibitions and let my body speak. It's more than mere movement; it's my voice, my solace, and my connection to a world that often feels distant. At the young age of six, I stumbled into the world of dance during summer camp. My mom witnessed my transformation—the way my shy demeanor dissolved into something vibrant and alive when the music swirled around me. She wasted no time in finding a dance school, a place where I could unravel my emotions through graceful steps. Those early days were nerve-wracking. The unfamiliar faces, the predominantly white surroundings—I felt like an outsider. But when the studio doors swung open, the music called me. Suddenly, I inhabited my own universe, a secret realm where my body flowed freely. In the back of the class, I exploded with movement, my heart pounding in rhythm with the beat. Then came the pivotal moment: my teacher noticed my flair. She called me to the front, and panic surged through my veins. I stumbled, forgot the choreography, and the class erupted in laughter. But she didn't let me crumble. "Try again," she said, her voice steady. So I took a deep breath, willed my legs to obey, and danced as if the room held only me. The applause that followed was a symphony of acceptance—a chorus that drowned out my fears. From that day forward, dance became my emotional compass. When stress knotted my insides, I pirouetted it away. When joy bubbled within, I leaped and twirled, my body translating happiness into motion. And when sorrow threatened to engulf me, I wove my grief into arabesques and grand jetés. Dance was my therapy, my catharsis, my way of navigating a world that often overwhelmed me. But life wasn't always a seamless waltz. As a minority in my current dance school, I grappled with standing out. At workshops, I'd cling to the shadows, avoiding the spotlight like a moth shunning the flame. The other students didn't look like me, and sometimes, their gazes felt like microscopes dissecting my every move. Yet, I learned that visibility wasn't a curse—it was an opportunity. So I stepped into the light. I pirouetted with purpose, my skin a canvas for resilience. I realized that my presence mattered, that my dance could inspire others—those who felt like outsiders, those who yearned to express themselves without judgment. And so, I spun, arms outstretched, defying gravity and convention. Dance isn't just steps and rhythms; it's a language—a universal dictionary that transcends barriers. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a bathroom mirror ballerina, dance invites you to move authentically, to tell your story through leaps, twirls, and spins. It's the heartbeat of joy, the exhalation of pain, and the celebration of being gloriously human. So, what does dance mean to me? It's freedom—the liberation of my spirit, the unshackling of my fears. It's the way I find myself when I'm lost, the way I touch eternity with my fingertips. And even if the world forgets my name, my dance will echo through time, a testament to resilience, courage, and the sheer joy of moving to the rhythm of life.