My name is Madina, and I am an international student from Kazakhstan, currently pursuing a double major in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in Environmental Science. I was raised by a single mother who worked as a doctor and taught me, through her example, the power of resilience, compassion, and ambition. From a young age, I’ve been driven by a deep curiosity about the natural world and a commitment to understanding it—not just for knowledge’s sake, but to protect and preserve it for future generations. I want to dedicate my life to wildlife biology, focusing on how environmental changes impact ecosystems and species survival. What drives me is the belief that science must be inclusive and grounded in empathy. As a woman of color in STEM, I’m passionate about increasing access and representation for others like me—people whose voices are often missing from scientific dialogue, policy decisions, and research leadership. My personal mission is to blend science, advocacy, and education to create a more equitable and sustainable world. I feel deeply connected to the issue of biodiversity loss and its intersection with climate change. Growing up in Kazakhstan, I witnessed the decline of local wildlife and environmental degradation due to unsustainable industrial practices and lack of ecological awareness. This sparked my desire to study environmental science and work toward solutions that protect both vulnerable species and communities impacted by environmental instability. But this issue goes beyond science—it’s also about justice. Indigenous and rural communities, especially in developing countries, are often the first to feel the effects of environmental destruction, yet they have the least voice in decision-making. I want to be a scientist who advocates not just for data, but for people—especially those who have historically been excluded from conversations that shape their future. If I had the power, I would launch a global conservation initiative that combines biodiversity protection with community empowerment. My vision includes creating localized conservation research stations in vulnerable ecosystems—especially in underrepresented regions like Central Asia—where scientists work alongside local communities to protect wildlife and teach sustainable practices. These stations would serve as both research hubs and educational centers. I would also invest in accessible science communication platforms that translate complex environmental issues into understandable content for the public, encouraging more people—especially youth and marginalized groups—to participate in environmental action. Finally, I would advocate for policies that include Indigenous and local voices in environmental governance. True conservation must be participatory, not paternalistic. I chose to study Biology and Chemistry because they are the foundation for understanding life and the systems that sustain it. My childhood fascination with animals evolved into a passion for understanding their biology, behavior, and how human activity affects their ecosystems. Adding a minor in Environmental Science allowed me to explore the broader context of conservation, climate change, and sustainability. With this education, I hope to become a wildlife biologist focusing on endangered species and habitat protection. I envision working in research and field conservation, but also shaping policy and education initiatives that connect science with real-world action. In the next five years, one of my biggest goals is to lead an independent research project focused on the impact of climate change on endangered wildlife in Central Asia. Kazakhstan, where I’m from, is home to unique species like the saiga antelope—animals that are increasingly threatened by shifting weather patterns, shrinking habitats, and human encroachment. Yet this region receives relatively little international attention or research funding. I want to help change that. To reach this goal, I am preparing myself academically and professionally. I am currently double majoring in Biology and Chemistry, and minoring in Environmental Science to build a strong foundation in both biological systems and environmental processes. I have also completed summer internships in a veterinary clinic and a laboratory, gaining hands-on skills in animal care, diagnostics, and data analysis. Over the next few years, I plan to apply for competitive field internships and research assistantships focused on wildlife conservation. I will also seek mentorship from professors working in ecology, conservation biology, and international environmental policy. By combining field experience with strong academic preparation, I aim to apply to a top graduate program in conservation science or wildlife biology, where I can pursue this research on a larger scale. But most importantly, I plan to collaborate with local communities and researchers in Kazakhstan and other underrepresented regions. I want my work to be rooted in respect for Indigenous knowledge and community needs—because I believe real, lasting impact can only happen when science is inclusive and participatory. Education has been the most powerful tool in helping me understand my identity, my passions, and my place in the world. It gave me language for my curiosity, structure for my goals, and confidence to challenge what I once thought were limits. Before I came to college, I knew I loved animals and the environment, but I didn’t fully understand how much science could be a platform for advocacy, equity, and change. Through my coursework, I’ve learned about the urgent threats facing our planet—but also about the tools we can use to address them. I’ve studied how climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities, and how systemic inequalities play a role in conservation outcomes. These insights have reshaped my purpose. Education also helped me realize that I want to be more than just a scientist—I want to be a communicator, an advocate, and a leader who uses science to serve others. It’s taught me that purpose isn’t just about passion; it’s about responsibility. I’ve been given opportunities that many girls from my background never get. My purpose is to make the most of those opportunities—and open doors for others, too. My identity as a woman, and especially as a woman of color in STEM, has made me hyper-aware of the biases and barriers that still exist in academic and professional spaces. In many of my science classes, I’m one of the only international students and often the only woman of color. I’ve had to work twice as hard to prove myself and earn the respect of peers and mentors. But rather than let that discourage me, I’ve let it motivate me. Being a woman in male-dominated fields has taught me to be assertive, to speak up for myself, and to stand tall in spaces where I might feel invisible. It’s made me deeply empathetic to others who feel marginalized or left out, and it’s driven me to advocate for more inclusive representation in STEM. It has also taught me pride. I take pride in being part of a growing generation of women who are redefining what leadership, expertise, and success look like. I wear my identity with intention, knowing that every step I take forward helps create space for others who come after me. To me, leadership means stepping up, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s about doing what’s right—not what’s easy—and lifting others along the way. Leadership doesn’t always have to be loud; sometimes it’s quiet persistence, showing up day after day with dedication and heart. I’ve embodied leadership in several ways. In my classes, I take initiative during group projects, ensure everyone’s voice is heard, and step in when problems arise. In lab settings, I help peers troubleshoot and support them with patience, even when deadlines are tight. Outside the classroom, I’ve mentored younger students from international backgrounds, helping them adjust to the academic and cultural challenges of studying abroad. Leadership also shows in how I’ve managed my own journey—navigating a new country, balancing academics with internships, and building a life without a family support system nearby. I lead myself with vision and purpose, and I hope to extend that leadership to my future field, especially by mentoring other women of color in science. One of the most challenging periods in my life was the first year of college. I had just arrived in a foreign country, far from my family, culture, and language. Everything was unfamiliar. While other students had their families to help them move in or support them emotionally, I had to navigate everything—banking, groceries, medical appointments, course registration—completely on my own. On top of that, I was taking demanding science courses in a language that wasn’t my first. I had moments of intense self-doubt, where I questioned if I belonged or if I could keep up. But I reminded myself why I was there—what I was working for—and I kept going. I learned to be resourceful by seeking help when I needed it. I joined study groups, asked questions, and built a support network of friends and professors. I learned to be resilient by believing in my own strength. That year taught me that independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone—it means knowing when to ask for support and having the courage to keep showing up. That experience is one of the main reasons I’m now so committed to mentoring others. I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed and alone—and I want to be the kind of support I once needed. This scholarship would have a profound impact on my academic and professional journey. As an international student from a single-parent household, I face significant financial constraints. I’ve worked hard to earn scholarships that allow me to study abroad, but there are still costs—textbooks, lab fees, transportation, unpaid research opportunities—that add up quickly and can limit my access to experience-building opportunities. With the support of this scholarship, I would be able to fully invest in my education and research goals. I could participate in fieldwork, apply for internships in conservation, attend conferences, and gain critical experience without constantly worrying about finances. More than just easing a financial burden, this scholarship would validate the hard work I’ve done and the vision I hold for the future. It would allow me to focus on the impact I want to make—not just as a scientist, but as a woman of color committed to reshaping the field of conservation to be more inclusive, equitable, and effective. It would help turn my dreams into action—and for that, I would be incredibly grateful.

Growing up with a single mother in Kazakhstan profoundly shaped the person I am today. My mother is a dedicated doctor who worked tirelessly to provide for my brother and me, despite her modest income. Although she gave everything she had, her salary was barely enough to cover our daily needs, and my father contributed only enough money to cover half of our rent. Because of this, we never had a stable or permanent home—we moved between small apartments, often uncertain about the future but always hopeful. This experience taught me the true meaning of perseverance and strength. Watching my mother balance long hospital shifts, patient care, and raising two children on her own was inspiring. She rarely complained and always prioritized our well-being and education, even when she was exhausted. Her resilience and sacrifice were constant reminders that success comes through hard work and determination. Even though I am the younger sibling, I quickly learned to take on most of the household responsibilities. From a young age, I managed cooking, cleaning, and caring for my brother to support my mother, who was often working late or studying to advance her career. This responsibility forced me to grow up faster and develop maturity, patience, and a strong sense of empathy. It also taught me the value of teamwork within a family and the importance of supporting each other through hardship. My upbringing motivated me to strive for opportunities beyond what my circumstances initially allowed. I worked hard in school, focusing on my studies despite the challenges at home, and was honored to receive a full-tuition scholarship to study abroad in the United States. Now, as a double major in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in Environmental Science, I continue to push myself academically and personally. To gain real-world experience, I completed two summer internships—one at a veterinary clinic and another in a research laboratory. These experiences not only reinforced my passion for science but also taught me the importance of dedication and continual learning. They reminded me that hard work opens doors, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Being raised by a single mother has shown me what it means to be resilient, selfless, and determined. My mother’s strength inspires me every day to overcome obstacles and pursue my dreams relentlessly. This scholarship would help me continue my education and honor the sacrifices she has made, enabling me to build a future that reflects the perseverance and love I grew up witnessing.

I am a dedicated undergraduate student pursuing a double major in Biology and Chemistry, with a minor in Environmental Science. Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently maintained strong grades while balancing various responsibilities and opportunities for personal growth. One of the most formative parts of my life has been my involvement in tennis, a sport I have played for over ten years. I was honored to represent my region as a member of the junior national tennis team, an experience that taught me invaluable lessons in discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. These qualities have shaped not only my athletic performance but also my approach to academics and life in general. Tennis has been more than just a sport for me; it has been a source of confidence and resilience. Competing at high levels required me to develop a strong work ethic and mental toughness, learning how to push through challenges both on and off the court. Balancing rigorous training schedules with my academic workload was often demanding, but it prepared me to manage time effectively and stay focused on my goals. Beyond sports and academics, I am passionate about giving back to my community. I have engaged in various volunteer activities that reflect my commitment to service and supporting others. These experiences have helped me develop empathy, leadership skills, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. I deeply relate to the values embodied by Kalia D. Davis—her kindness, ambition, and dedication to excellence are qualities I aspire to in my own life. Receiving the Kalia D. Davis Scholarship would be a tremendous honor and a significant help in my educational journey. As an international student studying abroad, financial support is critical to help cover tuition and living expenses, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and professional development. The scholarship would enable me to continue pursuing internships, such as those I have completed at a veterinary clinic and a research laboratory, which are essential steps toward my goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. This scholarship would not only alleviate financial stress but also motivate me to uphold the high standards of work ethic and community spirit that Kalia exemplified. Her legacy of living, loving, laughing, and learning inspires me to strive for excellence in all aspects of my life while maintaining compassion and joy. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply and hopeful that this scholarship will support me in continuing to grow as a student, athlete, and community member. It would empower me to build a future where I can contribute meaningfully to science and society, honoring the spirit of a remarkable young woman who touched many lives.

Bridging Ecosystems and Equity: My Purpose in STEM As a double major in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in Environmental Science, I’ve chosen my field of study because I believe the most meaningful work we can do is to understand and protect the natural systems that support life. I am especially drawn to wildlife biology and conservation, where science and impact intersect—where research leads not only to discovery but to action. From the grasslands of Kazakhstan where I grew up, to the mountains of East Tennessee where I now study, I have seen how environmental degradation and human impact threaten biodiversity. I am committed to using my scientific training to reverse those trends and contribute to a healthier planet. In the short term, I aim to participate in field-based research and internships that deepen my understanding of ecosystem dynamics and wildlife populations. I want to explore how climate change, habitat fragmentation, and pollution affect species survival and biodiversity. Long-term, I plan to work as a wildlife biologist or conservation scientist, ideally with an international organization or national park system, conducting research and advocating for science-based policies that protect wildlife. Eventually, I want to return to Kazakhstan to apply what I’ve learned and develop environmental education and conservation initiatives in my home country. As a woman of color and an international student from Kazakhstan, I have had to work harder than most to access opportunities in STEM. There are few role models in my field who look like me, speak my language, or share my lived experiences. Being an underrepresented minority often means having to prove myself constantly—overcoming doubts, stereotypes, and limited resources. Yet this also gives me a powerful sense of purpose. I want to be part of a new generation of scientists who reflect the diversity of our world and who ensure that different perspectives are included in shaping the future of science and technology. I’ve been fortunate to gain valuable hands-on experiences: I’ve worked at a veterinary clinic, volunteered at a local zoo, and taught math, biology, and chemistry through UNICEF Kazakhstan. These experiences have helped shape both my academic interests and my understanding of science as a tool for global change. Still, as an international student, I face significant financial barriers. I am not eligible for federal aid, and my family is unable to support me financially. I rely entirely on scholarships to continue my education, and I constantly have to budget for essentials like textbooks, lab fees, and housing. This scholarship would be more than financial relief—it would be a vote of confidence in my goals and my potential. It would allow me to focus more fully on research, fieldwork, and community engagement without the weight of constant financial pressure. With your support, I can continue my journey in STEM and work toward a future where science serves both people and the planet—equitably and responsibly.

As an Asian woman in STEM, I’ve always had a unique perspective on how culture, environment, and science intersect. Now, as a double major in Biology and Chemistry with a deep love for animals and technology, I see I.T. not just as a field of systems and software, but as a powerful tool for change—especially in the natural world. While I plan to pursue veterinary school and possibly a Ph.D., I see technology as a critical piece of my future. From wildlife tracking and data modeling to disease mapping in endangered species, tech is transforming the way we approach conservation. My goal is to use I.T. to develop and support systems that protect biodiversity, improve animal healthcare, and help scientists make data-informed decisions in real time. One of the most transformative tech innovations of the last decade that I like is the advancement of gene editing and biotechnology, particularly in cancer research. Tools like CRISPR-Cas9 have revolutionized our ability to precisely edit DNA, offering groundbreaking potential to not only understand but also treat and even prevent many types of cancer. The ability to target mutations at the genetic level marks a new era in medicine—where we can approach diseases at their root cause rather than just manage symptoms. To me, this is one of the most hopeful and powerful applications of technology in human history. As a Biology and Chemistry double major, I’ve always been curious about the complexity of life, especially on the genetic level. Watching how cancer affects people in every part of the world, including my own community, I was drawn to the science behind it. What was once an incurable mystery is now, thanks to biotechnology, a field full of promising solutions. As a dynamic woman in I.T., I want to help bridge the gap between biology and technology. I envision a future where I can contribute to building AI-driven tools that track migration patterns, detect early signs of disease outbreaks in wildlife, and even use drones and machine learning to monitor endangered habitats. I’m particularly inspired by the growing field of bioinformatics and how it combines computing with life sciences—helping us decode genetic data that can save species from extinction. Beyond technical impact, I hope to serve as a role model for young girls—especially from underrepresented backgrounds—who may not see themselves in STEM careers. As someone who speaks four languages and comes from a multicultural background, I know how empowering it is to break barriers. I want to share my story and support outreach programs that help girls around the world get access to science, tech, and mentorship. Representation matters, and the future of I.T. must be diverse if it is to truly serve all of humanity. Dynamic Edge’s mission to empower through empathy and innovation deeply resonates with me. I believe that technology is not just about solving problems—it’s about serving people and the planet with purpose. Whether I’m working in a field lab, marine rescue center, or behind a computer analyzing global data, I will carry that mindset forward. The world needs dynamic women in I.T. not only to close the gender gap but to lead solutions that reflect our collective values, cultures, and hopes. I am excited to become one of those women—using technology not just as a career path, but as a force for global conservation, education, and equity.