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.