The journey that led me to become a leader was not straightforward. It was shaped by personal struggles, resilience, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the lives of others. My story begins with a battle against severe mental health challenges, which once confined me to a wheelchair and disrupted my education. These experiences have become the bedrock of my leadership philosophy: empathy, understanding, and innovation. During the darkest periods of my mental health struggles, I learned the importance of empathy and the power of a supportive presence. These lessons became crucial when a close friend had his own battles with depression and anxiety. By sharing breathing exercises like square breathing and progressive muscle relaxation techniques, I helped him navigate his panic attacks and social anxiety. This personal experience taught me that true leadership is about being there for others, offering support, and helping them find their strength. My role as an Assistant Manager at Verizon Wireless further solidified my leadership skills. Two employees confided in me about their mental health challenges. Recognizing the importance of emotional support in the workplace, I created a safe space for them to talk openly. I provided my personal contact information and scheduled regular check-ins, ensuring they felt heard and valued. This experience highlighted the importance of listening and fostering a supportive environment, which are key components of effective leadership. As I transitioned into the field of software development and artificial intelligence, my leadership journey took on a new dimension. My academic and professional pursuits are driven by a vision to use technology to support mental health. Enrolling in the M.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning program at Colorado State University Global Campus, I aim to develop innovative solutions that bridge the gap between technology and mental health support. This vision is not just about technical skills but about leading with a purpose that stems from personal experience and a desire to help others. One of the most significant leadership qualities I possess is resilience. My academic journey was interrupted when I had to withdraw from my bachelor's program in 2010 due to my mental health struggles. However, I returned to my studies at Penn State University in 2021 and graduated in 2024 with a B.S. in Information Sciences and Technology. This resilience demonstrates my ability to overcome obstacles, stay focused on my goals, and inspire others facing similar challenges. Leadership, to me, also means innovation. I believe that with the power of AI and ML, we can create tools that provide real-time mental health support, detect crises early, and offer personalized resources. This innovative approach to leadership is about looking ahead, anticipating needs, and developing solutions that make a meaningful impact. My goal is to develop AI-driven platforms that assist healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals, ensuring that mental health resources are accessible to all. Furthermore, my leadership is characterized by a commitment to continuous learning and growth. I am always seeking new knowledge and skills to better support my goals. This commitment is reflected in my pursuit of advanced studies and my dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. In conclusion, what makes me a leader is a combination of empathy, resilience, innovation, and a deep-seated commitment to making a difference. My personal experiences with mental health challenges have given me a unique perspective and a strong sense of purpose. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of compassionate leadership.

The weight of severe depression and mania once confined me to a wheelchair and the walls of hospitals, a prisoner to uncontrollable muscle movements and the turmoil within my mind. Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, my journey through mental health challenges has been long and arduous. Yet, it is this very journey that has fueled my passion to help others navigate their own struggles, armed with empathy, resilience, and a vision for a better future. My personal battle with mental health has profoundly shaped my perspective. I learned to view others not through the lens of judgment but with deep empathy, recognizing that beneath the surface, many are fighting unseen battles. As an Assistant Manager at Verizon Wireless, I extended this empathy to my team. Two employees confided in me about their mental health struggles, and I made it my mission to support them. I provided a safe space for them to talk, shared my personal contact information, and scheduled regular check-ins to ensure they felt heard and valued. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of listening and the importance of emotional support in the workplace. Now, as a graduate student in the M.S. in AI and ML program at CSU, I am poised to combine my personal experiences with my technical skills. I envision developing AI-driven software that can detect mental health crises, offering real-time support and resources to those in need. By creating tools that can assist healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals alike, I aim to bridge the gap between technology and mental health support. My passion for this field is deeply personal. If I had access to AI-powered resources during my struggles, I might have found help sooner, avoiding hospitalizations and the interruption of my education. After withdrawing from my bachelor's program in 2010, I finally resumed my studies at Penn State University in 2021, graduating in 2024. My journey has come full circle, and I am now dedicated to using my expertise to ensure that others have access to the support I once needed. Through technology, I believe we can create a world where mental health resources are accessible to all. My goal is to develop innovative solutions that provide early detection, coping strategies, and connections to professional help. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a future where no one has to face their mental health challenges alone.

My experience with mental health has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. It has been a journey marked by significant challenges and resilience, ultimately molding me into a person with a deep appreciation for life, a strong sense of purpose, and a compassionate approach to relationships. My struggle with mental health began during my undergraduate studies at Michigan Technological University. The pressures of academia, combined with financial difficulties, took a toll on my mental well-being. Despite my best efforts, I found myself unable to continue my studies and had to leave the university. This period was a pivotal moment in my life, as it forced me to confront my mental health issues head-on. In the years that followed, my battle with mental health continued. Attempts to complete my degree online were thwarted by ongoing mental health struggles and financial constraints. The turning point came when I experienced a severe reaction to the medications I was taking for depression. This reaction resulted in uncontrollable muscle movements in my hands, arms, legs, and neck, rendering me unable to work or pursue my education for a period of two years. During this time, I relied on a wheelchair and faced significant limitations in my daily life. This challenging period tested my resilience in ways I had never imagined. However, it also provided me with invaluable insights into my own strength and determination. Gradually, I began to recover and, by 2019, was able to return to work. Starting at a wireless phone retailer, I eventually secured a position at Verizon Wireless, where I was promoted to Assistant Manager. This stability allowed me to rekindle my passion for education, leading me to enroll at Penn State University in 2021. Balancing full-time work and studies, I graduated in May 2024 with Magna Cum Laude honors. These experiences have deeply influenced my goals. Professionally, I am passionate about artificial intelligence, machine learning, large language models, and computer vision. My goal is to develop transformative software that enhances the way we live, work, and enjoy life. My own journey has shown me the profound impact technology can have on improving quality of life, and I am committed to leveraging my skills to create innovative solutions that benefit others. My experience with mental health has also shaped my relationships. I have developed a profound sense of empathy and understanding for others who face similar struggles. I have learned the importance of supporting those around me and fostering meaningful connections. This empathy extends to my professional aspirations, as I aim to create technology that is inclusive and accessible, catering to the diverse needs of individuals. Furthermore, my journey has reshaped my understanding of the world. I have come to realize the importance of resilience, adaptability, and self-care. I have learned to appreciate the small victories and to approach challenges with a growth mindset. My experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude for the support systems in my life, including my family, friends, and colleagues, who have stood by me during my most difficult times. In addition to my professional aspirations, my personal passions include traveling, hiking, and backpacking around the globe. These activities have provided me with a sense of freedom and adventure, allowing me to connect with nature and explore new cultures. They have also reinforced my belief in the importance of balance and self-care, as they provide a necessary respite from the demands of daily life. Ultimately, my experience with mental health has shaped me into a person with a strong sense of purpose and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the world. I am excited to continue my education by pursuing a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Colorado State University. I believe that my journey, marked by resilience and determination, will enable me to achieve my goals and make meaningful contributions to the field of technology.

My experience with mental health has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. It has been a journey marked by significant challenges and resilience, ultimately molding me into a person with a deep appreciation for life, a strong sense of purpose, and a compassionate approach to relationships. My struggle with mental health began during my undergraduate studies at Michigan Technological University. The pressures of academia, combined with financial difficulties, took a toll on my mental well-being. Despite my best efforts, I found myself unable to continue my studies and had to leave the university. This period was a pivotal moment in my life, as it forced me to confront my mental health issues head-on. In the years that followed, my battle with mental health continued. Attempts to complete my degree online were thwarted by ongoing mental health struggles and financial constraints. The turning point came when I experienced a severe reaction to the medications I was taking for depression. This reaction resulted in uncontrollable muscle movements in my hands, arms, legs, and neck, rendering me unable to work or pursue my education for a period of two years. During this time, I relied on a wheelchair and faced significant limitations in my daily life. This challenging period tested my resilience in ways I had never imagined. However, it also provided me with invaluable insights into my own strength and determination. Gradually, I began to recover and, by 2019, was able to return to work. Starting at a wireless phone retailer, I eventually secured a position at Verizon Wireless, where I was promoted to Assistant Manager. This stability allowed me to rekindle my passion for education, leading me to enroll at Penn State University in 2021. Balancing full-time work and studies, I graduated in May 2024 with Magna Cum Laude honors. These experiences have deeply influenced my goals. Professionally, I am passionate about artificial intelligence, machine learning, large language models, and computer vision. My goal is to develop transformative software that enhances the way we live, work, and enjoy life. My own journey has shown me the profound impact technology can have on improving quality of life, and I am committed to leveraging my skills to create innovative solutions that benefit others. My experience with mental health has also shaped my relationships. I have developed a profound sense of empathy and understanding for others who face similar struggles. I have learned the importance of supporting those around me and fostering meaningful connections. This empathy extends to my professional aspirations, as I aim to create technology that is inclusive and accessible, catering to the diverse needs of individuals. Furthermore, my journey has reshaped my understanding of the world. I have come to realize the importance of resilience, adaptability, and self-care. I have learned to appreciate the small victories and to approach challenges with a growth mindset. My experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude for the support systems in my life, including my family, friends, and colleagues, who have stood by me during my most difficult times. In addition to my professional aspirations, my personal passions include traveling, hiking, and backpacking around the globe. These activities have provided me with a sense of freedom and adventure, allowing me to connect with nature and explore new cultures. They have also reinforced my belief in the importance of balance and self-care, as they provide a necessary respite from the demands of daily life. Ultimately, my experience with mental health has shaped me into a person with a strong sense of purpose and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the world. I am excited to continue my education by pursuing a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Colorado State University. I believe that my journey, marked by resilience and determination, will enable me to achieve my goals and make meaningful contributions to the field of technology.

As a non-traditional college student, my educational journey has been unique and enriching, shaped by significant life experiences and challenges. Born in 1988, I graduated high school in 2006 and immediately enrolled at Michigan Technological University. However, due to mental health and financial difficulties, I had to leave the university in 2010 without completing my degree. My attempts to continue my education online at Baker College in 2011 and the University of Phoenix in 2012 were also thwarted by similar issues. In 2013, I experienced a severe reaction to medications I was taking for depression, resulting in uncontrollable muscle movements in my hands, arms, legs, and neck. This condition escalated to the point where I needed a wheelchair from 2014 to 2016, severely limiting my ability to work and pursue my education. These years were incredibly challenging, but they also strengthened my resolve and determination. By 2019, I had gradually recovered and was able to return to work, starting at a wireless phone retailer. Two years later, in 2021, I secured a position at Verizon Wireless, where I was promoted to Assistant Manager. This professional stability and my improved health motivated me to resume my educational journey. I enrolled at Penn State University in 2021 and, while working full-time, completed my bachelor’s degree in May 2024 with Magna Cum Laude honors. Returning to academia after several years in the workforce has given me a distinct perspective on the value of education and the importance of seizing every opportunity to learn. Balancing work, personal responsibilities, and studies has honed my time management and organizational skills, making me more disciplined and resilient. This experience has also deepened my appreciation for the support and resources available to students, driving me to actively engage with my peers and professors. Being a non-traditional student has influenced my future goals significantly. I am committed to leveraging my diverse experiences to contribute to innovative projects in artificial intelligence and machine learning. My passion for these fields, coupled with my desire to develop software that transforms how people interact with technology and each other, motivates me to pursue a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Colorado State University. My journey has not only shaped my academic and professional aspirations but also instilled in me a strong sense of determination and adaptability. These qualities were essential in overcoming the challenges I faced and will continue to drive me in my future endeavors. I am excited to apply these attributes to my graduate studies and beyond, confident that they will enable me to achieve my goals and make meaningful contributions to the field of technology. Ultimately, being a non-traditional student has enriched my educational experience by providing me with a profound understanding of perseverance and the value of continuous learning. I look forward to using this scholarship to support my continued education and to help me achieve my dream of developing innovative technologies that improve lives worldwide.