Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) changed the way I see the world. Before my diagnosis, I did not fully understand how much people can experience physically without others ever noticing. I often took everyday abilities such as walking, having energy, attending school, and planning for the future for granted. Becoming part of the disabled community taught me that a person’s challenges cannot always be understood simply by looking at them. Living with MS has given me a new perspective on what disability means. MS can affect mobility, energy, coordination, and a person’s ability to physically exert themselves, even when there are no obvious outward signs. Learning to manage an unpredictable condition while continuing my education has required patience and resilience. There are times when I have had to recognize my limitations, adjust my plans, or give myself time to recover. Those experiences have taught me that needing accommodations or support does not make someone less capable. Being part of the disabled community has also made me more compassionate. I am more aware that someone who appears healthy may be dealing with something that others cannot see. Before my diagnosis, I might not have thought about why someone needed additional time, assistance, or a different approach to completing a task. Now I understand that accessibility is not about giving someone an unfair advantage. It is about making sure people have a fair opportunity to participate and succeed. My experience has also changed how I think about my future. I am pursuing my education in Cyber Operations Engineering because I want to build a career in technology and cybersecurity. I hope to use my future career to create technology that is more accessible and inclusive for people with different physical abilities. Technology has the potential to help people communicate, work, learn, and live more independently, and I want to contribute to that progress. I also want to use my experience to encourage other people with disabilities to pursue their goals. A diagnosis can make the future feel uncertain, especially when you are young and still trying to figure out who you want to become. I want other students in the disabled community to see that having a disability does not mean they have to abandon their ambitions. It may require adapting the path, but it does not have to eliminate the destination. Most importantly, being part of the disabled community has taught me to value perseverance. I have learned that strength is not pretending that challenges do not exist. Strength is recognizing those challenges and continuing to move forward anyway. MS has changed my perspective, but it has not changed my determination to build a meaningful future. I want to turn what I have learned into greater empathy, better technology, and opportunities for others. My disability is one part of my story, but the lessons it has taught me will influence the person I become and the impact I hope to make on my community.

Recovery means learning how to move forward when life changes unexpectedly. For me, recovery became personal when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). At a young age, I had to face questions about my health, education, and future that I never expected. My diagnosis was frightening because I did not know what my future would look like. I worried about whether MS would affect my ability to attend college, build a career, and accomplish my goals. There were moments when the uncertainty felt overwhelming. Over time, I learned that recovery does not always mean returning to the person I was before my diagnosis. To me, recovery means adapting, taking care of myself, following my treatment, asking for help when needed, and continuing to pursue my dreams despite challenges. MS has taught me that strength does not mean never struggling. Strength means acknowledging when something is difficult and still choosing to keep going. I am continuing my education and working toward a future in technology and cybersecurity. I still want to build businesses, create opportunities, and make a positive impact on my community. Most importantly, recovery means hope. My diagnosis is part of my story, but it does not define my future. I cannot control every challenge ahead, but I can control how I respond. Recovery means accepting what has happened, believing in what is still possible, and continuing forward. MS changed my life, but it does not get to decide how my story ends.

The thing I want to build is more than a business, a product, or a successful career. I want to build a future where innovation creates opportunities for people who may not always have access to them. I want to use my education, experiences, and ambition to create something that can positively affect not only my life, but also my family and community. As a college student studying Cyber Operations Engineering at an HBCU, I have developed a strong interest in technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, finance, and space exploration. My long-term goal is to build a technology company that combines these interests to create innovative solutions while also opening doors for other young people. I want to prove that an idea that starts in a classroom can eventually become something that creates jobs, inspires others, and solves real problems. However, I have learned that building a future requires much more than simply having a big dream. It requires discipline, patience, education, networking, failure, and persistence. I want to build my knowledge and technical skills so that I can turn ideas into products and services that people can actually use. I also want to build meaningful relationships with mentors, entrepreneurs, students, and professionals who can challenge me to become better and encourage me to think beyond what I currently believe is possible. One of the biggest impacts I hope to make is helping young people see themselves as creators rather than just consumers of technology. I want students, especially those attending HBCUs and coming from communities where opportunities may be limited, to understand that they can become engineers, entrepreneurs, cybersecurity professionals, investors, and innovators. In the future, I hope to create internships, mentorship programs, educational opportunities, and pathways into technology careers for students who are still trying to figure out what is possible for them. Building this future will not always be easy. I know there will be financial obstacles, failures, unexpected setbacks, and moments when I question whether my goals are realistic. Instead of allowing those challenges to stop me, I want to use them as lessons. Every setback can teach me how to improve, and every challenge can help me become more prepared for the responsibility that comes with success. Ultimately, I want to build something that is bigger than myself. I want my education to become a foundation, my ideas to become solutions, and my success to become an opportunity for others. If I can build a future where my accomplishments make it easier for someone else to dream bigger, then I will know that I built something meaningful. That is what “aiming higher” means to me: refusing to limit my future based on where I started and using what I build to help others reach higher as well.

The thing I want to build is more than a business, a product, or a career. I want to build a future where technology creates opportunities for people who have historically been left out of the rooms where innovation happens. As a college student studying Cyber Operations Engineering at an HBCU, I have become increasingly interested in the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, finance, and space exploration. My long-term goal is to build a technology company that develops innovative tools while creating opportunities for young people to learn about emerging technologies and entrepreneurship. Building this future will require more than having an idea. It will require discipline, education, failure, persistence, and the willingness to keep improving. I want to build the knowledge and skills necessary to turn ideas into real solutions. I also want to build relationships with mentors, students, entrepreneurs, and professionals who can challenge me to think bigger and help me understand how to create something that lasts. The positive impact I hope to make begins with my community. I want young people, especially students at HBCUs, to see technology and entrepreneurship as fields where they belong. I want to eventually create internships, mentorship opportunities, educational programs, and pathways into careers that may otherwise feel inaccessible. If I can build something successful while helping someone else discover their own potential, then my success will have a purpose beyond myself. I know that building a meaningful future will not happen overnight. There will be setbacks, financial challenges, mistakes, and moments when the goal seems much farther away than expected. However, I have learned that building something worthwhile means continuing even when the results are not immediate. The future I envision is one where my education becomes a foundation, my ideas become solutions, and my success becomes an opportunity for others. I am not simply trying to build a career. I am trying to build something that can outlive me and make it easier for the next generation to aim higher.

My experience at Bowie State University has shown me that attending an HBCU is about much more than earning a degree. It is about becoming part of a legacy of people who have used education as a tool to overcome barriers, create opportunities, and strengthen their communities. As a student studying Cyber Operations Engineering, I have learned that my education is not only preparing me for a career in technology; it is preparing me to become a leader. One of the most meaningful parts of my HBCU experience has been becoming involved in the cybersecurity community on campus and taking on a leadership role within the cybersecurity group. Being over the group has challenged me to become more confident, responsible, and willing to help others. Leadership has taught me that knowing the material is only one part of being successful. A strong leader must also be willing to communicate, listen, encourage others, and create opportunities for the people around them. Cybersecurity is especially important to me because technology is becoming a part of almost every aspect of society. At the same time, many communities remain underrepresented in technology and cybersecurity. My HBCU experience has made me more determined to help change that. I want other Black students to see cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, engineering, and technology as fields where they belong and can become leaders. Being part of an HBCU has also shaped my values. I have learned to take pride in where I come from while remaining focused on where I am going. The history of HBCUs reminds me that the opportunities I have today exist because generations before me refused to allow barriers to define what was possible. That history motivates me to take my education seriously and make the most of the opportunities I have been given. I hope to continue this legacy throughout my career by becoming a leader in cybersecurity and technology. My long-term goal is to work at the intersection of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and innovation while eventually building organizations that create opportunities for others. I want to help develop technology that protects people and communities while also encouraging more students to pursue careers in STEM. I also want my impact to extend beyond my own career. Whether I am mentoring students, leading cybersecurity initiatives, creating educational opportunities, or building a company, I want to make it easier for the next generation to succeed. I believe legacy is not simply about what you accomplish for yourself. It is about what becomes possible for others because you chose to make a difference. My HBCU experience has given me more than an education. It has given me a community, a sense of responsibility, and a deeper understanding of what leadership means. As I continue my journey, I want to honor the legacy of HBCUs by becoming the type of leader who creates opportunities, challenges barriers, and helps others recognize their own potential. My goal is to graduate not only with a degree, but with the knowledge, leadership, and purpose necessary to leave my community better than I found it.

Education is more than a path toward earning a degree; it is the foundation for the future I want to build. I plan to continue my education after completing my undergraduate degree because I believe learning should not stop when I receive my diploma. The fields I am interested in, especially cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and technology, are constantly evolving. Continuing my education will allow me to develop advanced skills, remain adaptable, and contribute to the future of technology. I am currently pursuing a degree in Cyber Operations Engineering at Bowie State University. My undergraduate education is giving me a strong foundation in cybersecurity, computer systems, problem-solving, and technology. However, I understand that the technology industry will continue changing throughout my career. New forms of artificial intelligence, cyber threats, and digital systems are being developed every year. I want to be prepared not only to understand these changes but also to help create solutions for them. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, computer science, or a closely related technology field. I am especially interested in the intersection of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. AI can transform how organizations identify threats, protect information, and respond to cyberattacks, while also creating new security challenges. I want to develop the knowledge necessary to work on both sides of this rapidly developing field. Graduate education will allow me to study these subjects at a deeper level and participate in advanced research and projects. I want to learn how to design secure systems, analyze emerging cyber threats, develop intelligent technologies, and use technology to solve real-world problems. I also plan to pursue professional certifications and specialized training throughout my career so that my education continues to grow alongside the industry. My long-term goals extend beyond simply working in technology. I want to become an entrepreneur and create companies that use technology, artificial intelligence, and financial innovation to solve problems and create opportunities. I have always been interested in building things rather than simply using them. Continuing my education will provide me with the technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities needed to turn my ideas into meaningful solutions. Receiving the Charles E. Nettles Continued Education Scholarship would help me continue pursuing these goals while reducing the financial challenges associated with higher education. More importantly, it would represent an investment in my future and the impact I hope to make. Ultimately, I plan to continue my education because I know there is more for me to learn and more that I want to accomplish. My bachelor’s degree will provide the foundation, but graduate education and professional development will help me build upon it. I want to become a skilled cybersecurity and technology professional, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner. My goal is to use my education not only to create a successful future for myself, but also to create opportunities and solutions that can benefit others.

Growing up, I learned that family is not defined only by who you are related to, but by who chooses to be there for you. Being raised with the support and guidance of guardians and grandparents shaped the person I am today. Their influence taught me the importance of perseverance, responsibility, humility, and believing in myself even when circumstances were difficult. Much of what I hope to accomplish in the future comes from the lessons I learned from the people who helped raise me. My upbringing was not always simple. There were moments when I had to mature faster than I expected and learn how to navigate challenges without allowing them to determine my future. The adults who cared for me showed me that obstacles do not have to become limitations. Instead, they can become motivation. Watching the people who raised me work through their own responsibilities taught me that success requires consistency and sacrifice. They encouraged me to value education and to understand that the opportunities I receive come with the responsibility to make something meaningful out of them. Those lessons have followed me into college. I currently attend Bowie State University, where I am pursuing Cyber Operations Engineering. Choosing a career in technology reflects my desire to build something that can have an impact beyond myself. I am interested in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, finance, and entrepreneurship because I believe technology can create opportunities and solve problems that affect entire communities. My education is not simply about earning a degree; it is about developing the knowledge and skills necessary to create a future that I can be proud of. Being raised by guardians and grandparents also influenced the way I think about independence. I have learned that having a goal is only the beginning. There will be setbacks, unexpected expenses, difficult decisions, and moments when giving up seems easier than continuing. My upbringing taught me to keep moving forward. Whenever I face a challenge, I try to remember the sacrifices made by the people who helped me get where I am. Their efforts motivate me to take my education seriously and to become someone who can eventually provide opportunities for others. My future goals are bigger than simply achieving personal success. I want to become an entrepreneur and build companies centered around technology, artificial intelligence, finance, and innovation. I want to create opportunities for young people who may not have access to the resources or connections they need to see themselves as future engineers, entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders. I especially want my work to demonstrate that where someone starts does not have to determine where they finish. Receiving the Shirley Kelley Scholarship would help me continue pursuing these goals while reducing some of the financial pressure that comes with obtaining a college education. More importantly, receiving this scholarship would remind me that the story I am building is worth investing in. I would carry that responsibility with me throughout college and beyond. The people who helped raise me gave me more than a place to grow up. They gave me lessons about resilience, responsibility, and perseverance that I will carry for the rest of my life. Their influence is part of the reason I continue to dream so ambitiously. I want my future accomplishments to reflect the sacrifices they made and to show that their guidance had a lasting impact. My goal is not only to succeed, but to use that success to create opportunities for others and leave something meaningful behind.

At 19 years old, I have learned that mental health is just as important as physical health. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), my life changed in ways I never expected. While I had to adjust to the physical challenges of the disease, the emotional impact was just as difficult. I experienced anxiety, fear, and periods where I felt disconnected from myself and the world around me. At first, I believed I had to keep these feelings to myself because I did not want to appear weak. Over time, I realized that ignoring my mental health only made the burden heavier. My experiences have completely changed my goals. I am currently pursuing a degree in Cyber Operations Engineering while also working toward becoming an entrepreneur. There were moments when I questioned whether I would be able to accomplish my dreams because of my diagnosis. Instead of allowing fear to define me, I decided to let it motivate me. My goal is not only to build a successful career but also to prove that people facing mental health challenges or chronic illnesses can still achieve extraordinary things. I want my success to inspire others to keep pursuing their dreams, even when life becomes difficult. My relationships have also grown stronger because of these experiences. I have learned that being honest about my struggles creates deeper connections with the people who care about me. Opening up has taught me that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of courage. It has also helped me become more compassionate toward others because everyone is carrying battles that may not be visible. Most importantly, my understanding of the world has changed. I now recognize how many people silently struggle with their mental health due to fear of judgment or stigma. Everyone deserves compassion, understanding, and access to support without feeling ashamed. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to seek help when they need it and to remind them that healing is possible. Mental health is not something to hide—it is something we should discuss openly. Through my education, career, and personal experiences, I hope to contribute to a future where conversations about mental health are met with empathy instead of silence.

Technology has fascinated me for as long as I can remember. I was never satisfied with simply using computers. I wanted to understand how they worked, how software was created, and how technology could solve real problems. That curiosity eventually led me to pursue a degree in Cyber Operations Engineering. To me, computer science is more than writing code. It is about creating solutions that improve lives, protect people, and make opportunities available to those who have been left behind. My passion has only grown stronger through my experiences. During college I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a life changing neurological condition that forced me to rethink many aspects of my future. Around the same time, I experienced financial hardship and housing instability while trying to stay enrolled in school. Those challenges would have convinced many people to give up, but they strengthened my determination. They reminded me that education is one of the few investments that can never be taken away from you. I chose this career because I want to build technology with purpose. My long term goal is to create secure software, artificial intelligence tools, and cybersecurity platforms that help people protect their data, learn new skills, and gain financial opportunities. I also hope to build companies that create internships and mentorship programs for students who come from backgrounds like mine. Too many talented young people never get the chance to explore careers in technology simply because they lack resources or guidance. I want to help change that. Earning my degree will completely transform my life. It will give me the technical knowledge, professional credibility, and opportunities needed to turn my ideas into reality. More importantly, it will allow me to build a stable future for myself while supporting my family and giving back to my community. Higher education is not just a personal achievement for me. It is the foundation that will allow me to create lasting opportunities for others. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of continuing my education and allow me to spend more time focusing on research, internships, and projects that will prepare me for my career. I have learned that success is not measured by how many obstacles you avoid, but by how you respond to them. Every challenge I have faced has strengthened my resilience, expanded my perspective, and reinforced my commitment to using technology to make a positive impact. I am pursuing this degree because I believe innovation should serve people. My goal is to build technology that opens doors, solves meaningful problems, and inspires the next generation of students to believe that their circumstances do not determine their future. Education is the first step toward making that vision a reality.

My interest in computer science began with a simple question that has stayed with me throughout my life. How do computers solve problems that seem impossible? That curiosity quickly grew into a passion for understanding technology at a deeper level. Instead of simply using software, I wanted to know how it was built, how it could be improved, and how it could protect people. That passion led me to pursue Cyber Operations Engineering, where I have developed a strong interest in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development. My dream after earning my degree is to build technology that creates opportunities for others. I hope to develop secure software and artificial intelligence tools that make education, financial knowledge, and cybersecurity more accessible to everyday people. I also want to build companies that solve meaningful problems while creating internships and mentorship opportunities for students who may not have the resources or connections to pursue careers in technology. I believe technology should improve lives, not just generate profits. I have faced challenges that have strengthened my commitment to these goals. During college I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic neurological condition that changed my life unexpectedly. At the same time, I experienced financial hardship and periods of housing instability while continuing my education. Those experiences tested my determination, but they also reminded me why I chose this field. Technology has the power to remove barriers, create opportunities, and help people overcome challenges. I want to spend my career building solutions that do exactly that. I believe I am an excellent candidate for this scholarship because I have remained committed to my education despite significant obstacles. Every challenge has strengthened my resilience rather than discouraged me. I continue to expand my technical skills through coursework, independent projects, and constant learning because I know the technology industry never stops evolving. More importantly, I am committed to using what I learn to benefit others. Receiving the Chris Jackson Computer Science Education Scholarship would reduce the financial burden of pursuing my degree and allow me to focus more fully on developing the knowledge and experience needed to achieve my goals. I am determined to become a technology leader who combines technical excellence with compassion and service. My ambition is not simply to build successful software. It is to build solutions that create lasting opportunities for people and communities that have often been overlooked. I believe that is the true purpose of technology, and it is the future I am working every day to create.

As a Cyber Operations Engineering student, I believe learning does not end when class is over. Some of my greatest growth has come from using online platforms that allow me to practice real skills, explore new technologies, and apply what I learn in the classroom to real world problems. One of the most valuable learning tools I use is ChatGPT. I use it to explain difficult cybersecurity concepts, brainstorm software ideas, review programming logic, and challenge my understanding of technical topics. Rather than simply giving me answers, it helps me think through problems from different perspectives and encourages me to ask better questions. I also use YouTube to learn from cybersecurity professionals, software engineers, and technology educators. Watching demonstrations of networking concepts, ethical hacking techniques, and programming tutorials allows me to see how ideas are applied outside of textbooks. These videos often introduce me to tools and techniques that I later practice on my own. Hands on learning is equally important to me. I spend time building software projects, experimenting with programming, and applying cybersecurity concepts to strengthen my technical abilities. Reading documentation, researching new technologies, and participating in online technology communities have helped me develop problem solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Online resources have also taught me how to become an independent learner. Technology changes constantly, and I know that successful engineers must continue learning throughout their careers. Instead of waiting for information to be presented in a classroom, I actively search for new knowledge, compare different approaches, and experiment until I understand how something works. These learning habits have become even more important after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis while attending college. There have been times when balancing my health with school required flexibility. Online resources have allowed me to continue learning, reviewing material, and building technical skills regardless of where I was studying. They have helped me remain committed to my education even during challenging periods. My goal is to use cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development to build technology that protects people and creates opportunities for underserved communities. The online platforms I use today are helping me develop the knowledge and confidence to pursue that vision. They have shown me that learning is not limited to a classroom. It is a lifelong process driven by curiosity, discipline, and a willingness to keep improving. If you are not a veteran, don’t submit this application. It isn’t worth risking your credibility when there are many scholarships that genuinely match your background.

One of the Olivia Rodrigo songs that resonates with me the most is the grudge. Although the song centers on a personal relationship, I connect deeply with its themes of carrying emotional pain, learning to heal, and choosing to move forward even when life feels unfair. Those themes reflect many of the experiences that have shaped my own journey. While pursuing my degree in Cyber Operations Engineering, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Receiving that diagnosis at nineteen years old completely changed the way I viewed my future. Instead of focusing only on classes, internships, and career goals, I suddenly had to think about medical appointments, treatment, and living with a condition that has no cure. Around the same time, I experienced financial hardship and periods of housing instability. It often felt as though every time I solved one problem, another appeared. What connects me to Olivia Rodrigo’s music is its honesty. Her songs do not pretend that difficult emotions disappear overnight. They acknowledge disappointment, frustration, and uncertainty while also suggesting that healing is a process. I found comfort in that perspective because it reminded me that growth does not require pretending everything is perfect. Sometimes growth simply means deciding to keep going. Rather than allowing my circumstances to define me, I chose to continue pursuing my education. I focused on developing my skills in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development because I believe technology has the power to solve meaningful problems. Every project I complete and every new concept I learn reminds me that progress is possible, even when the journey is difficult. Another reason I appreciate Olivia Rodrigo’s music is that it encourages authenticity. In a world where people often feel pressure to appear successful or unaffected by hardship, her songs remind listeners that vulnerability is part of being human. That lesson has influenced the way I approach my own life. I no longer believe that strength means hiding my struggles. I believe strength means facing them honestly while continuing to work toward my goals. My experiences have also shaped the impact I hope to make in the future. I want to build technology that protects people, expands access to education, and creates opportunities for communities that have been overlooked. I also hope to mentor students who are facing obstacles of their own, reminding them that setbacks do not define their potential. If my journey can encourage even one person to continue believing in themselves, then those challenges will have served a greater purpose. The themes in Olivia Rodrigo’s music remind me that resilience is not about never experiencing pain. It is about refusing to let pain become the final chapter of your story. That lesson has become part of my own life. Every challenge I have faced has strengthened my determination to keep learning, keep building, and keep moving forward. My triumph is not that life has been easy. My triumph is that I have continued to pursue my dreams despite every obstacle placed in my path.

Growing up, I was the kid who could never stop asking why. While other people were satisfied with using technology, I wanted to understand how it worked beneath the surface. I would spend hours researching computers, watching videos about cybersecurity, reading about artificial intelligence, and trying to understand why systems behaved the way they did. My curiosity probably seemed a little awkward because I questioned everything, but over time I realized that curiosity was not something to hide. It was my greatest strength. What makes me different is not that I enjoy technology. Many people do. What makes me different is that I see connections between subjects that most people think have nothing in common. I study Cyber Operations Engineering, but I am equally fascinated by financial markets, artificial intelligence, and astronomy. At first those interests seem completely unrelated. To me, they all ask the same question. How do complex systems work, and how can we understand them well enough to improve them? That way of thinking has shaped every part of my life. When I encounter a difficult problem, I rarely look for the fastest answer. Instead, I try to understand the entire system. I believe that solving the right problem is more important than solving the easiest one. Whether I am studying network security, building software, or learning about the universe, I approach every challenge with the same mindset. Observe carefully, ask questions, and never stop learning. My curiosity became even more important after I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis during college. My life changed unexpectedly, and I faced financial hardship and periods of housing instability while trying to continue my education. Those experiences forced me to adapt, but they also strengthened the way I think. Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” I began asking, “What can I learn from this, and how can I move forward?” That shift in perspective allowed me to keep pursuing my education and my goals despite the obstacles in front of me. I hope to use that same mindset throughout my career. My goal is to build technology companies that combine cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology to solve meaningful problems. I also want to mentor students who may feel different because of the way they think or the questions they ask. I want them to understand that being different is often where innovation begins. If there is one thing that truly makes me stand out, it is that I have never lost my curiosity. I still ask questions that others overlook. I still enjoy learning simply for the sake of understanding. I believe the people who change the world are not always the loudest or the most naturally gifted. They are the people who remain curious long after everyone else has stopped asking why. That curiosity has shaped my life, and I believe it will continue to shape the impact I hope to make on the world.

Technology has fascinated me since I was a child because it showed me that one idea can improve thousands of lives. That curiosity led me to pursue Cyber Operations Engineering, where I discovered that cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development are not just technical fields. They are tools that can solve real problems, protect people, and create opportunities for communities around the world. I chose STEM because I enjoy solving difficult problems. Whether I am learning about cybersecurity, building software, or exploring artificial intelligence, I am motivated by the challenge of finding solutions that others may not see. I believe technology should make life safer, more accessible, and more efficient. My long term goal is to build companies that develop secure technology, expand access to education, and create opportunities through innovation. I also hope to continue my education in astronomy because understanding the universe inspires me to think beyond today’s problems and imagine tomorrow’s possibilities. The impact I hope to make goes beyond developing software. I want to mentor students who may not believe they belong in STEM because of their background or financial circumstances. I want to create internships, scholarships, and educational programs that help young people gain the skills and confidence to pursue careers in technology. Success becomes meaningful when it creates opportunities for others. My journey has also been shaped by adversity. During college I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic neurological condition that changed my life unexpectedly. At the same time, I faced financial hardship and periods of housing instability while trying to continue my education. Balancing my health, coursework, and daily responsibilities tested my resilience in ways I never expected. Those challenges changed my perspective. I learned that leadership is not defined by avoiding hardship but by continuing to move forward despite it. Every obstacle strengthened my determination to earn my degree and build a future where I can help others facing challenges of their own. My experiences have made me more disciplined, adaptable, and grateful for every opportunity to learn. Receiving the Emerging Leaders in STEM Scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my education while continuing to pursue my goals in cybersecurity and innovation. More importantly, it would represent an investment in someone who is committed to using STEM to serve others. I believe the future belongs to people who combine technical knowledge with compassion. My goal is not simply to become a successful engineer. My goal is to become a leader who creates technology that empowers people, mentors the next generation of innovators, and leaves the world more secure, more accessible, and more hopeful than I found it.

Chess has taught me that success is rarely determined by a single move. It is built through patience, preparation, discipline, and the ability to think several steps ahead. Those lessons have shaped both my career goals and the way I approach challenges in life. As a Cyber Operations Engineering student, my goal is to build innovative technology that improves people’s lives through cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology. I want to create software that protects people, expands access to knowledge, and solves real world problems. Achieving those goals requires the same mindset that chess demands. Every decision has consequences, every move requires careful thought, and every mistake becomes an opportunity to learn. One of the greatest lessons chess has taught me is the importance of thinking strategically instead of reacting emotionally. It is easy to focus on the move directly in front of you, but great players understand that every decision should support a larger plan. I apply that lesson to my education by setting long term goals while remaining focused on the daily work required to reach them. Every class, project, and certification is another move toward the future I want to build. Chess has also taught me resilience. Even the strongest players lose games. What separates successful players is their willingness to study their mistakes instead of becoming discouraged by them. I have carried that lesson into my own life. After facing health challenges, financial hardship, and setbacks during college, I learned that failure is not the end of the game. It is simply information that helps you make better decisions moving forward. Another lesson I value is patience. In chess, rushing often creates weaknesses that an opponent can exploit. In cybersecurity and software development, the same principle applies. Careful planning, testing, and attention to detail produce stronger and more secure solutions than rushing to finish first. I believe patience allows innovation to become reliable instead of temporary. My long term goal is to build technology companies that create opportunities for others while solving meaningful problems. I also hope to mentor students who are interested in STEM and encourage them to develop the discipline and curiosity needed to succeed. Chess has shown me that success is not determined by talent alone. It comes from consistent learning, thoughtful decision making, and the willingness to improve every day. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and move closer to those goals. More importantly, it would allow me to continue applying the lessons chess has taught me both inside and outside the classroom. Like every meaningful chess match, I know my future will be built one thoughtful move at a time.

I am a Cyber Operations Engineering student driven by a passion for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and solving complex problems through technology. My goal is to build innovative software that improves people’s lives while creating opportunities for others to succeed. Although my academic journey has been filled with challenges, each obstacle has strengthened my determination to continue pursuing higher education. One of the most significant challenges I have faced was being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at nineteen years old. Receiving that diagnosis changed my life overnight. I suddenly had to balance doctor appointments, medical treatments, and the uncertainty that comes with living with a chronic neurological condition while continuing my college education. There were moments when I questioned whether I would be able to continue school or achieve the goals I had spent years working toward. My disability also created financial challenges. Medical expenses, treatment, and periods of housing instability forced me to focus on survival while trying to remain committed to my education. Managing my health while keeping up with coursework has required discipline, resilience, and the willingness to adapt when my body does not cooperate. Rather than allowing Multiple Sclerosis to define my future, I have chosen to let it strengthen my character. It has taught me patience, perseverance, and gratitude for every opportunity I receive. Living with Multiple Sclerosis has also changed the way I view success. I no longer measure success only by grades or accomplishments. I measure it by my ability to keep moving forward despite setbacks. Every class I complete, every project I finish, and every goal I accomplish reminds me that my diagnosis does not determine my potential. My long term goal is to combine cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology to develop tools that solve real world problems and create opportunities for others. I also hope to mentor students who face obstacles of their own, showing them that a disability does not prevent someone from making meaningful contributions to society. I want my story to encourage others to continue pursuing their dreams regardless of the challenges they face. Receiving the Robert and Suzi DeGennaro Scholarship would relieve a significant financial burden and allow me to focus more fully on my education instead of worrying about medical costs and basic living expenses. The support would help me purchase educational resources, continue my degree, and prepare for a career where I can use technology to make a lasting difference. Multiple Sclerosis changed my life, but it did not change my ambition. It strengthened my resilience, deepened my purpose, and reminded me that every challenge presents an opportunity to grow. I am committed to earning my degree, building technology that improves lives, and proving that determination can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

To me, selflessness is choosing to use your time, knowledge, and energy to improve someone else’s life without expecting anything in return. I believe the greatest form of service is giving people the tools to succeed on their own. One of the ways I have practiced selflessness is by mentoring others who wanted to learn cybersecurity and technology. I have spent hours helping classmates understand concepts that once confused me, walking them through problems instead of simply giving them the answers. Watching someone go from frustration to confidence has always been more rewarding than solving the problem myself. Knowledge becomes more valuable when it is shared. I have also dedicated time to helping aspiring traders understand risk management and discipline. Many people focus only on making money, but I encourage them to build good habits first. I explain that protecting your capital, learning from mistakes, and remaining patient are more important than chasing quick profits. My goal has never been to impress others with what I know. It has been to help people avoid the costly mistakes that I have seen and experienced myself. My understanding of selflessness deepened after I faced personal challenges of my own. During college I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, experienced financial hardship, and went through periods of housing instability. Those experiences showed me how much a single act of kindness can change someone’s outlook. Whether it was a family member providing a place to stay, a mentor offering encouragement, or someone believing in my potential when I doubted myself, I realized that people rarely overcome difficult times alone. Those moments changed the way I approach others. I try to listen before I speak, encourage people when they feel discouraged, and share opportunities whenever I can. I believe helping someone does not always require money. Sometimes it simply requires showing them that someone believes in them. In the future, I hope to multiply that impact through technology and education. My goal is to build companies that create opportunities through cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology. I also want to establish mentorship programs, internships, and scholarships for students who may not have the resources or connections to pursue careers in STEM. Success means little if it is not used to open doors for others. Receiving the Michael Rudometkin Memorial Scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my education while strengthening my ability to serve others. I hope my life reflects the idea that true success is measured not by what we accumulate, but by how many lives we positively influence. If I can help someone believe in themselves, overcome an obstacle, or discover a new opportunity, then I know I have made a meaningful difference.

When people ask how I plan to make a positive impact on the world, my answer is simple. I want to build technology that gives people opportunities they never thought they could have. Growing up, I became fascinated by computers because they allowed one person with an idea to solve problems on a global scale. That curiosity led me to pursue Cyber Operations Engineering, where I discovered that technology is not just about writing code. It is about improving lives. Every application, every algorithm, and every innovation has the potential to make someone’s future brighter. My own journey has shown me why that matters. While pursuing my education, I faced financial hardship, periods of housing instability, and was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Those experiences taught me that talent alone is not always enough. People also need opportunity. Instead of allowing those setbacks to define me, they strengthened my determination to create tools that make education, financial knowledge, and technology more accessible to everyone. My long term goal is to build companies that combine cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology to solve real world problems. I want to create platforms that help people learn valuable skills, protect themselves online, and make informed financial decisions. Technology should empower people, not intimidate them. Beyond building software, I want to invest in people. I plan to mentor students who are interested in STEM, especially those from underserved communities who may not have access to the same resources or role models. I know how powerful encouragement can be. Sometimes all it takes is one mentor who believes in you to change the direction of your life. I also believe innovation should create opportunities, not just profits. As my career grows, I hope to establish scholarships, paid internships, and mentorship programs that help students gain experience regardless of their financial circumstances. I want young innovators to know that their background does not determine their future. Curiosity, perseverance, and a willingness to learn can open doors that once seemed impossible. The impact I hope to make extends beyond technology itself. I want to be remembered as someone who used innovation to improve lives, who shared knowledge freely, and who created opportunities for others to succeed. Every successful person has benefited from someone who believed in them. I hope to become that person for countless others. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and move one step closer to that vision. More importantly, it would allow me to keep building toward a future where technology is not only innovative but also accessible, ethical, and designed to serve humanity. I cannot change the world overnight, but I can dedicate my life to solving one meaningful problem at a time. I believe lasting impact begins with helping one person, then another, until those small changes become something far greater. That is the future I am working to create.

Growing up in a single father household taught me lessons that no classroom ever could. My father carried the responsibility of providing, making difficult decisions, and doing everything he could to give me opportunities that he did not have. Watching him work through challenges showed me that resilience is not something you are born with it is something you build every day. Although our journey was not always easy, it inspired me to pursue higher education with determination. I chose to study Cyber Operations Engineering because I have always been fascinated by solving problems through technology. Since I was a child, I have been curious about computers, cybersecurity, and how technology can improve people’s lives. That curiosity has grown into a passion for building innovative solutions and pursuing a career where I can make a meaningful impact. My educational journey has also been shaped by personal obstacles. While in college, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a life-changing condition that forced me to rethink how I approached school, work, and my future. Financial challenges and periods of instability added to the difficulty, but they also strengthened my resolve. Instead of allowing those experiences to define me, I used them as motivation to continue learning, improving my technical skills, and working toward my degree. Being raised by a single father also taught me the importance of community. Success is rarely achieved alone. Teachers, mentors, family members, and friends have all played a role in encouraging me to keep moving forward when life became overwhelming. Their support has inspired me to become the same source of encouragement for others. In the future, I plan to give back by mentoring students who are interested in STEM, particularly young people from underserved communities who may not see many people who look like them in technology. I want to teach cybersecurity, programming, and entrepreneurship while showing students that their circumstances do not determine their potential. I believe knowledge becomes more valuable when it is shared. My long-term goal is to build technology companies that create opportunities for others through cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology. I hope to create internships, scholarships, and mentorship programs that help students gain real-world experience before they graduate. I want young people to know that innovation is not limited by where they come from—it is driven by curiosity, perseverance, and the willingness to keep learning. Receiving the Larry Darnell Green Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of pursuing my education but also bring me one step closer to giving back to the communities that helped shape me. My journey has taught me resilience, responsibility, and compassion, and I intend to use those lessons to create opportunities for others for years to come. ⸻ I think this one is especially strong because it directly answers both parts of the prompt: how being raised by a single father shaped your education and how you plan to give back to your community.

When I was 6 years old, my fascination with STEM began by looking at the night sky. While many children dreamed of becoming athletes or entertainers, I dreamed of understanding the universe. That curiosity eventually grew into a passion for computers, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Today, I am pursuing a degree in Cyber Operations Engineering because I believe technology is one of the greatest tools humanity has to solve complex problems. For me, STEM has never been just about writing code or passing exams. It is about creating solutions that improve lives. Whether competing in cybersecurity competitions, building software projects, or experimenting with AI-powered platforms, I enjoy taking difficult problems and breaking them into pieces until I find an answer. Every challenge teaches me to think differently, and that mindset extends far beyond the classroom. My journey has not been easy. While pursuing my education, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), faced financial hardship, and experienced periods of housing instability. There were times when it seemed like continuing school would be impossible. Instead of allowing those obstacles to define me, they strengthened my determination. Every setback reminded me why education matters—not only to improve my own future but to build technology that helps others overcome barriers as well. As a Black student in STEM, I understand how important representation is. Growing up, I rarely saw engineers, cybersecurity professionals, or technology founders who looked like me. I want to help change that. I hope to mentor younger students, especially those from underserved communities, and show them that careers in science and technology are achievable regardless of where they begin. Sometimes all it takes is seeing someone who shares your background to believe you belong. Looking ahead, I aspire to combine cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and financial technology to develop platforms that make advanced technology more accessible to everyday people. I also plan to continue my education in astronomy and astrophysics because I believe understanding the universe inspires us to ask better questions here on Earth. Innovation happens when curiosity meets purpose. Receiving this scholarship would relieve financial pressure and allow me to focus more fully on my education and research. More importantly, it would represent an investment in someone committed to using STEM not only to innovate but to uplift others. I believe the future of STEM depends on people who are willing to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions, and create technology that serves everyone. As a person of color, I hope my impact extends beyond the software I build. I want my journey to inspire the next generation of innovators to believe that they belong in every laboratory, classroom, startup, and research center. By opening doors for others while continuing to push the boundaries of technology, I hope to leave STEM more inclusive, more innovative, and more hopeful than I found it.

When most people think of hacking, they picture someone breaking into systems. I see it differently. To me, hacking is the ability to understand how something works deeply enough to improve it, rebuild it, or use it to solve problems that matter. That mindset has shaped who I am. One of my favorite moments came when I began helping other students understand cybersecurity concepts that had once intimidated them. Rather than simply giving answers, I built demonstrations, walked through attacks in controlled environments, and showed how small changes in code or configuration could completely change a system’s security. Watching confusion turn into excitement reminded me that technology becomes powerful only when it’s shared. Outside the classroom, my curiosity led me to compete in cybersecurity competitions and participate in programming projects. I learned that success rarely comes from knowing the most commands or memorizing the most tools. Instead, it comes from asking questions nobody else is asking. Why does this system behave this way? What happens if I combine two ideas that were never meant to work together? That curiosity has become my greatest technical skill. Recently, I have expanded that mindset into building tools of my own. Rather than creating technology for technology’s sake, I want to develop platforms that make complex information understandable. Whether I am designing trading analytics, experimenting with automation, or brainstorming new cybersecurity utilities, my goal is always the same: make difficult problems easier for everyday people to solve. What delights me most is not finishing a project—it is watching someone else benefit from it. Seeing a teammate finally understand a difficult concept, helping another student debug a frustrating program, or inspiring someone to pursue cybersecurity gives me more satisfaction than writing perfect code. Last year, I was honored to be selected as a finalist for the Kyle Lam Hacker Scholarship. That recognition motivated me to continue growing rather than becoming comfortable. Since then, I have continued expanding my technical skills while facing personal challenges, including health issues and financial hardship. Those experiences strengthened my belief that technology should be used to create opportunity, not just innovation. Kyle Lam’s story resonates with me because people remembered more than his technical ability. They remembered his curiosity, generosity, humility, and willingness to help others. Those are the qualities I strive to develop every day. I hope to build software that solves meaningful problems, mentor future students entering cybersecurity, and create technology that empowers people instead of intimidating them. To me, the hacker spirit is not about breaking things. It is about refusing to accept that a problem has no solution. It is about curiosity becoming creativity, creativity becoming innovation, and innovation becoming service. That is the kind of engineer and person I am working every day to become.

Higher education has been one of the greatest challenges of my life not because I lacked ambition, but because life tested my ability to keep moving forward. Shortly after beginning college, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that changed my life overnight. At the same time, I faced financial hardship, mounting medical expenses, and eventually lost my housing after a family conflict. Instead of focusing solely on exams and assignments, I found myself searching for a safe place to sleep, figuring out how to afford treatment, and wondering how I would continue my education. There were moments when giving up seemed like the easier choice. I questioned whether I would be able to finish college, pursue my dreams, or even regain stability. Yet those experiences taught me that resilience is not the absence of hardship—it is choosing to continue despite it. The people who helped me overcome these obstacles were not just those who offered financial assistance. My aunt gave me a place to stay when I had nowhere else to go, providing stability during one of the most uncertain periods of my life. Medical professionals helped me understand that an MS diagnosis did not define my future. Friends and mentors encouraged me to keep applying for opportunities, internships, and scholarships instead of letting temporary setbacks become permanent limitations. Most importantly, I learned to become my own advocate. I sought employment, continued developing my technical and cybersecurity skills, explored entrepreneurship, and stayed committed to earning my degree even when the path looked uncertain. Every application I completed, every interview I attended, and every assignment I finished became another reminder that my future was still worth fighting for. These challenges have reshaped how I define success. Success is no longer just about grades or income. It is about building a life where I can create opportunities for others facing similar struggles. My goal is to combine my education with my passion for technology and innovation to build businesses that solve real problems and create opportunities for underserved communities. Receiving the William A. Lewis Scholarship would ease a significant financial burden and allow me to focus more fully on my education rather than worrying about housing, medical expenses, and basic necessities. More importantly, it would represent an investment in someone who has refused to let adversity determine his future. My journey has not been easy, but it has strengthened my perseverance, adaptability, and determination. I believe the obstacles I have overcome will make me not only a stronger student but also a future leader who understands the value of resilience, compassion, and hard work. With continued support, I am committed to completing my education and using it to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

When I was younger, people often asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. My answer changed over the years, but one thing remained constant: I was always curious. I wanted to know how things worked, why the world operated the way it did, and what existed beyond what we could see. That curiosity eventually led me to technology, cybersecurity, and a lifelong fascination with space and discovery. Today, I am a college student studying Cyber Operations Engineering. My journey has not been a straight path. Like many students, I have faced financial challenges, academic setbacks, and moments of uncertainty. More recently, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a condition that forced me to confront obstacles I never expected to face at such a young age. While those experiences have been difficult, they have also taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of continuing forward even when the future is unclear. My interest in education comes from a simple belief: education creates possibilities. Every opportunity I have received began with learning something new. Education has given me the ability to think critically, solve problems, and see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to quit. It has shown me that knowledge is one of the few things that cannot be taken away from you. Looking toward the future, I hope to build a career at the intersection of technology, innovation, and service. I want to contribute to projects that solve meaningful problems and create opportunities for others. Whether through cybersecurity, software development, or emerging technologies, my goal is to use my skills to make a positive impact. I am especially interested in technologies that expand access to information, improve security, and inspire future generations to pursue careers in science and technology. Beyond my professional goals, I hope to become someone who demonstrates that challenges do not have to define a person’s future. As a first generation dreamer with big ambitions, I understand what it feels like to face obstacles that seem larger than yourself. I want my journey to serve as proof that perseverance, education, and hard work can open doors that once seemed impossible to reach. This scholarship would help me continue pursuing those goals by reducing the financial burden that often accompanies higher education. Like many students, I balance the demands of school with financial responsibilities and personal challenges. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to devote more time and energy to my studies, professional development, and long term aspirations. More importantly, it would represent an investment in someone who is committed to using education as a tool for growth, service, and positive change. I do not view education as simply a path to a career. I view it as a pathway to opportunity, discovery, and impact. My goal is not only to succeed personally but also to use what I learn to contribute to something greater than myself. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue working toward that vision and building a future defined not by the obstacles I have faced, but by the possibilities I choose to pursue.

Most people see technology as a collection of devices, applications, and code. I see it as humanity’s attempt to answer impossible questions. One project that I became deeply passionate about was developing an educational concept that explored how technology could make science, discovery, and complex information more accessible to everyday people. The project was inspired by a lifelong fascination with space. Since I was young, I have been captivated by the stars, planets, and the idea that there is still so much left for humanity to discover. As I grew older and entered the world of technology, I began to realize that the same curiosity that drives scientists to explore the universe also drives engineers and innovators to solve problems here on Earth. The goal of my project was not simply to build something technical. It was to create an experience that could inspire curiosity in others. Throughout the process, I researched technologies, explored different design approaches, and thought critically about how information could be presented in a way that was both engaging and meaningful. What started as an idea quickly became a challenge that required creativity, persistence, and continuous learning. The project taught me that technology is not about machines. It is about people. The most impactful innovations are not necessarily the most complex. They are the ones that help someone learn, grow, connect, or see the world differently. That realization changed the way I view technology and the role I want to play within it. Working on this project also came during a difficult period in my life. As a college student pursuing Cyber Operations Engineering, I faced financial challenges, academic pressure, and a recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. There were moments when uncertainty felt overwhelming. Yet every time I returned to learning, building, and creating, I was reminded why I fell in love with technology in the first place. Technology gave me a sense of purpose when I needed it most. It showed me that progress is possible even when circumstances are difficult. What inspires me most about working in technology is that we are living in one of the most transformative periods in human history. Every major advancement, from cybersecurity and artificial intelligence to space exploration, begins with someone willing to ask a question that others overlook. Technology rewards curiosity. It encourages people to imagine a better future and then take the first steps toward building it. My long term goal is to contribute to that future by combining technical knowledge with innovation and service. I want to develop solutions that help people access knowledge, create opportunities, and overcome barriers. Whether the challenge involves education, security, science, or discovery, I believe technology has the power to create meaningful change. The project I worked on reinforced a belief that continues to guide me today: humanity moves forward because people refuse to stop exploring. Some explore oceans. Some explore space. Others explore ideas. Technology is the tool that allows those explorations to become reality. That is why I am passionate about this field, and why I hope to spend my career helping shape the future it creates.

Growing up in Louisiana, I learned that success is not determined by the circumstances you are born into, but by your willingness to persevere when life becomes difficult. Throughout my life, I have faced challenges that tested my resilience, including financial hardship, educational obstacles, and a recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. While these experiences have not been easy, they have strengthened my determination to pursue higher education, serve my community, and create opportunities for others. I am currently a student studying Cyber Operations Engineering because I believe technology is one of the most powerful tools for solving problems and improving lives. My educational goal is to earn my degree while continuing to develop skills in cybersecurity, software development, and emerging technologies. Beyond my current studies, I hope to expand my knowledge in fields such as artificial intelligence, data analysis, and eventually astronomy and space science. Since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the universe and inspired by the idea that human innovation can push the boundaries of what is possible. Education is the foundation that will allow me to transform these interests into meaningful contributions. My professional goal is to become an entrepreneur and technology leader who develops innovative solutions that benefit both businesses and communities. I want to create platforms that improve access to financial education, cybersecurity resources, and technological opportunities for people who may not otherwise have access to them. I believe that technology should not only be used to generate profit but also to empower individuals and strengthen communities. In the future, I hope to build organizations that create jobs, support innovation, and encourage young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. My commitment to civic and public service is rooted in my belief that success carries a responsibility to help others. Throughout my educational journey, I have actively shared knowledge with classmates, peers, and individuals interested in technology and personal development. Whether helping others understand technical concepts, participating in academic and programming activities, or encouraging fellow students to pursue their goals, I have always believed that learning is most valuable when it is shared. I strive to be someone who lifts others up rather than focusing only on my own advancement. I am also committed to serving my community by creating opportunities for people who face barriers similar to those I have experienced. Financial challenges, health concerns, and limited access to resources can discourage students from pursuing their dreams. Because of these experiences, I understand the importance of mentorship, guidance, and support. My long-term vision includes mentoring young people, supporting educational initiatives, and creating programs that help students gain valuable skills that can improve their future opportunities. One of the most significant lessons I have learned is that adversity can either become an excuse or a source of motivation. My diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis forced me to reevaluate many aspects of my life, but it also strengthened my resolve to make the most of every opportunity available to me. Rather than allowing challenges to define me, I choose to view them as reminders of the importance of perseverance, discipline, and purpose. These experiences have taught me gratitude, resilience, and the value of serving others. Receiving the ESOF Academic Scholarship would not only help reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education, but it would also allow me to focus more fully on my academic goals and community involvement. This scholarship would be an investment in a student who is committed to growth, leadership, and service. My goal is not simply to achieve personal success, but to use my education, skills, and experiences to create opportunities for others and contribute to a better future. Through education, innovation, and public service, I hope to make a lasting impact that extends far beyond my own career.

Mental health became real to me the moment my body and mind stopped cooperating with the life I had carefully planned. During my first year of college, I was diagnosed with a brain lesion. In an instant, the confidence I carried into adulthood was replaced with fear, uncertainty, and questions I was not prepared to answer. Living with a brain lesion has reshaped my beliefs about strength and control. I learned quickly that mental health is not just about emotions, but about survival. Managing classes while navigating neurological symptoms, fatigue, and constant medical uncertainty forced me to confront my limits in ways I never had before. I could no longer rely on willpower alone. I had to learn how to listen to my body, care for my mind, and accept that needing help did not make me weak. This experience deeply affected my relationships. There were moments when I felt isolated, even surrounded by people. From the outside, I looked fine, but internally I was carrying anxiety about my health and grief over how suddenly my life had changed. I learned how important honesty is. I learned to communicate when I was struggling instead of pretending I was okay. Through this, my relationships became more meaningful. I became more patient, more understanding, and more aware that many people are fighting battles they do not talk about. Mental health also reshaped my sense of purpose. Being diagnosed with a brain lesion showed me how fragile stability can be and how easily people facing health challenges can be overlooked. It made me realize that mental health support is not optional. It is essential. This understanding directly influenced my career aspirations. I am pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on cyber operations, motivated by a desire to build systems that protect people and create stability in a world where uncertainty already weighs heavily on mental wellbeing. Security, accessibility, and protection matter deeply to me because I know what it feels like when those things are missing. My experiences have also changed how I show up for others. I advocate for mental health by being open about my journey when it is appropriate and by supporting peers who feel overwhelmed or unseen. I encourage others to seek help and remind them that struggling does not mean failing. Sometimes advocacy looks like sharing resources. Sometimes it looks like listening without judgment. I try to be the person I needed when I felt most alone. Living with a brain lesion has taught me that mental health is not a destination but an ongoing process. It has influenced how I learn, how I connect with others, and how I envision my future. I no longer define success by perfection or certainty, but by growth, resilience, and impact. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by carrying empathy and awareness into everything I do. My story is not one of defeat, but of adaptation and purpose. Through my education, my career, and my commitment to mental health advocacy, I hope to help create a world where people feel supported, understood, and encouraged to keep going, even when life takes an unexpected turn.

Mental health became personal to me during my first year of college, when I was diagnosed with a brain lesion. Overnight, my education stopped being just about exams and deadlines and became about learning how to function while carrying fear, uncertainty, and physical limitations I could not see but felt every day. Before my diagnosis, I thought of mental health as something separate from academic success. Afterward, I understood that mental health is the foundation of everything. Managing classes while navigating doctor visits, fatigue, anxiety, and unanswered questions forced me to confront how fragile stability can be. Some days, simply showing up to class required more strength than any test I had ever studied for. I learned that when mental health is ignored, even the most driven student can begin to unravel. My lesion also changed how I understood stigma. From the outside, I looked fine. Inside, I was battling fear about my future, grief from personal loss, and the pressure to keep going without appearing weak. I realized how often students suffer silently because their struggles are invisible. That realization made mental health impossible for me to ignore, both in myself and in others. Mental health matters to me as a student because it determines whether learning is sustainable. Without support, understanding, and compassion, students are expected to perform as if they are not human. I learned that advocating for my mental health was not selfish. It was necessary. Asking for accommodations, pacing myself, and accepting help allowed me to continue my education rather than burn out or withdraw. Because of my experience, I actively advocate for mental health within my community. I start by being open about my journey when appropriate, especially with peers who feel isolated or overwhelmed. I listen without judgment, encourage others to seek resources, and remind them that struggling does not mean failing. Sometimes advocacy is not loud. Sometimes it is sitting with someone who feels unseen and letting them know they are not broken. I also advocate by modeling balance. I prioritize rest, boundaries, and honesty about limitations, especially in environments where pushing through pain is often glorified. I share campus and community mental health resources with peers and emphasize that caring for the mind is as important as caring for the body. Through mentoring and informal support, I aim to create spaces where mental health is discussed openly rather than whispered about. Living with a brain lesion taught me that mental health is not optional. It is essential. It shapes how students learn, cope, and persist through adversity. My experience transformed mental health from an abstract concept into a responsibility. One I carry for myself and for others. As I continue my education, I am committed to advocating for a culture where mental health is respected, supported, and normalized. No student should feel like they have to choose between their wellbeing and their future. I know firsthand that when mental health is protected, resilience becomes possible and hope can take root even in the most difficult circumstances.

The first time I realized college might break me, I was sitting in a doctor’s office instead of a classroom, being told I had a brain lesion. It was my first year of college. I had arrived with confidence, goals, and the belief that effort would always equal progress. In a single appointment, that belief fractured. Suddenly, my future felt fragile. I was learning new medical terms, facing physical limitations, and confronting uncertainty I never planned for. Before I could fully process the diagnosis, life delivered another blow. My grandmother, the woman who raised me and believed in me relentlessly, passed away. In the midst of grief and illness, the goal I worked hardest to reach was simple, yet overwhelming. Stay in college and keep moving forward. Achieving that goal required redefining strength. I reduced my course load to protect my health, even though it meant letting go of the pace I once took pride in. I learned to manage exhaustion, appointments, and fear while still showing up academically. There were days when attending class felt like an act of defiance against everything trying to pull me under. I had to advocate for myself with professors, build structure around recovery, and accept help without seeing it as weakness. Financial instability added pressure. Medical limitations restricted my ability to work as much as I once did, forcing me to actively search for scholarships, support services, and campus resources. Each application, each late night, each moment of self doubt tested my resolve. Quitting would have been easier. Continuing required intention. What kept me grounded was my grandmother’s voice in my memory. She taught me that education is not only a privilege, but a responsibility. She believed that even when life becomes heavy, you keep going so you can one day lift others. Continuing my education became a way to honor her legacy and prove to myself that my diagnosis did not define my destiny. That season changed me. My brain lesion slowed my body, but it sharpened my perspective. I learned that ambition does not disappear when life interrupts you. It adapts. Drive does not always roar. Sometimes it whispers to get up anyway. And impact begins long before success, in the quiet decision to persist. Now, I use my experience to support others. I mentor peers facing academic setbacks, health challenges, and personal loss, reminding them that their struggles do not erase their worth or potential. I show up intentionally for my community, understanding how powerful small acts of encouragement can be when someone feels overlooked or broken. What I am working toward next is turning adversity into purpose. I am pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on cyber operations, with the goal of building secure, accessible technology that protects vulnerable communities. I also plan to continue mentoring and speaking, using my story to plant hope in places where it feels scarce. I did not expect my first year of college to test my survival. But I reached my goal anyway. And now, I am committed to helping others believe that even when life fractures your plans, you can still grow something meaningful from the cracks.

Some of my clearest thinking happens outdoors. When I step away from screens and deadlines and into quiet spaces like tree lined paths, open skies, or still water, I am reminded why I chose a future rooted in both technology and purpose. Nature slows me down just enough to help me see clearly, and that balance has shaped who I am and who I am becoming. I am an undergraduate computer science student who has been building, studying, and securing technology from a young age. I am drawn to understanding how systems work beneath the surface and how thoughtful design can protect people and communities. That same mindset influences how I experience the natural world. I see nature as something that requires care, intention, and respect. Just as secure code protects data, responsible actions protect environments that cannot be replaced once they are damaged. Outside of academics, I value movement, exploration, and reflection. I am an athlete who trains both indoors and outdoors, and those moments outside have taught me patience, discipline, and resilience. Whether I am training, traveling, or simply taking time to observe my surroundings, being in nature helps me reset mentally and spiritually. It reminds me that progress does not always come from rushing forward but from understanding the systems around us and our role within them. John Woolley’s legacy resonates with me because it represents a life guided by curiosity, service, and appreciation for the world. His love for photography, travel, and the outdoors reflects a deep respect for beauty and preservation. I admire how he captured fleeting moments while understanding the responsibility that comes with experiencing them. That perspective aligns with my own goal of building technology that serves people while protecting what matters most. As a computer science student, I want to develop secure systems that support education, safety, and access for future generations. I believe technology should work in harmony with the world we live in, not against it. My long term vision is to contribute to ethical innovation that considers both human impact and environmental responsibility. If awarded this scholarship, I would use the funds to support my education by covering textbooks, software, and academic resources essential to my studies. Reducing financial strain would allow me to focus more fully on learning, research, and experiential growth. It would also give me the opportunity to continue exploring new environments that inspire creativity and purpose. This scholarship represents more than financial support. It represents a shared belief in curiosity, responsibility, and lifelong appreciation for the natural world. I strive to honor that legacy through my studies, my actions, and the way I move through the world with intention and respect.

The day I learned I had a brain lesion was the same season I became my grandmother’s caregiver. In one moment, I was forced to confront my own vulnerability. In the next, I was responsible for someone I love navigating hers. That overlap changed everything. My grandmother has always been a pillar in my life. When her health declined, daily routines became difficult for her to manage alone. I stepped in to help with appointments, mobility, medications, and emotional support. Watching her struggle was painful, but it also strengthened my sense of responsibility. She had spent her life caring for others, and now it was my turn to care for her. At the same time, my diagnosis introduced fear and uncertainty into my own body. A brain lesion meant frequent medical visits, physical limitations, and the mental weight of not knowing how recovery would unfold. There were days when pain and fatigue made even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Balancing my own healing while remaining present for my grandmother required more than endurance. It required empathy, discipline, and faith. Caregiving is often invisible work. There is no clocking out when someone depends on you. I would shift from helping my grandmother through her day to managing my coursework and then addressing my own health needs. Rest was rare, and emotional exhaustion was real. Still, I showed up. Not because it was easy, but because love does not wait for perfect circumstances. Through this experience, I learned resilience in its truest form. I learned how to remain calm under pressure, how to adapt when plans change, and how to lead with compassion even when I was struggling myself. Caring for my grandmother while managing my diagnosis reshaped how I view responsibility and strength. Strength is not ignoring pain. It is moving forward with purpose despite it. This dual challenge has deeply influenced my goals. It reinforced my commitment to education as a pathway to stability and long term support for my family. I now approach my academic journey with greater focus, knowing that my success impacts more than just myself. Every class completed and every obstacle overcome is a step toward building a future where I can continue to care for those who depend on me. This scholarship would provide critical relief as I balance school, caregiving, and recovery. It would reduce financial strain and allow me to focus more fully on my education while maintaining the level of care my grandmother deserves. More importantly, it acknowledges the strength and sacrifice that caregivers carry quietly every day. Living with a brain lesion while caring for my grandmother has tested me in ways I never expected. It has also shaped me into someone more compassionate, disciplined, and resilient. These experiences continue to guide how I live, learn, and serve. With support, I will keep moving forward, carrying both my responsibilities and my hope with strength and purpose.

If I could introduce a new Love Island challenge, it would be built for the generation that lives online but still craves real connection. I’d call it “Read Receipt.” The challenge is designed to test how couples handle honesty, timing, and emotional transparency in a world where everything is seen but not always understood. The villa transforms into a neon tech lounge. Think glowing keyboards, floating chat bubbles, notification sounds, and a massive screen labeled “The Server.” Each Islander is given a tablet that looks like a messaging app, complete with timestamps, typing bubbles, and read receipts. Round one is called Draft Mode. Islanders are prompted with real relationship scenarios like “When I feel ignored, I usually…” or “The thing I overthink most about us is…” They must type their response in under 90 seconds. Once time runs out, the messages are locked. No edits. No deletes. Just like a message you regret sending too fast. Round two is Seen at 2:14 PM. Each couple sits face to face while their drafted messages appear on the big screen, complete with read receipts and timestamps. They must read each other’s messages out loud. If one partner finished typing much earlier than the other, it’s shown. The silence between typing and reading becomes part of the tension. Islanders realize not just what their partner feels, but how long they sat with those feelings. Round three is Live Reply. This is where it gets real. Each Islander gets 60 seconds to respond in real time while their partner watches the typing bubble appear on screen. No pauses. No rehearsed lines. Just raw, immediate reactions. If they stop typing, the screen flashes “Message Paused,” forcing them to either continue or send what they have. The final decision is called Pin or Mute. Each Islander must choose whether to pin their partner’s chat, signaling they want to prioritize and build on what was revealed, or mute it, meaning they need space or feel disconnected. The choices are revealed simultaneously at the fire pit. What makes Read Receipt special is how familiar it feels. Everyone has waited on a reply that never came or reread a message trying to decode tone. This challenge turns those modern anxieties into emotional storytelling. As a Love Island fan, I love when the show reflects real dating culture. Read Receipt brings texting, timing, vulnerability, and accountability into the villa in a way that feels fresh and authentic. It creates drama through truth instead of tricks. In a generation defined by screens, Read Receipt asks the most important question. When everything is seen, are you still choosing each other?

Some mornings begin before the sun fully rises, when discipline matters more than motivation. For me, those mornings start at 7 a.m., lacing my shoes, steadying my breath, and committing to another day of training and growth. In those moments, I am reminded that the path I have chosen is demanding, but purposeful. That is why I am pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering and preparing to serve in the United States Air Force. I am currently seeking a Civil Engineering degree because I want to design and maintain infrastructure that directly supports human safety and operational success. Civil engineering is the backbone of communities and military readiness alike. Whether it is airfields, facilities, or critical systems, the responsibility carried by civil engineers requires precision, accountability, and integrity. These are values I strive to embody both in my studies and in my daily life. Alongside my academic goals, I am committed to joining the United States Air Force through ROTC. Military service represents structure, service, and leadership under pressure. The legacy of Senior Airman Terry “TJ” Sams Jr. deeply resonates with me because he exemplified dedication to both engineering excellence and service to others. His impact reminds me that engineering in the Air Force is not just a profession, but a mission. My journey toward this goal has included challenges that tested my resolve. While participating in ROTC training, I was diagnosed with a brain lesion. Receiving that diagnosis was a defining moment that introduced uncertainty into a path I had worked hard to pursue. There were days marked by pain, fatigue, and difficult physical limits. Still, I refused to let my circumstances define my commitment. Instead of stepping away, I adapted. I continued training, attending ROTC obligations, and maintaining academic focus while prioritizing recovery. Showing up at 7 a.m. for training while managing healing required discipline beyond physical strength. Running through discomfort taught me patience, mental resilience, and respect for my body’s recovery process. Each step forward became proof that perseverance and faith can coexist with hardship. This experience strengthened my desire to serve in the Air Force. It showed me that leadership is built through consistency and integrity, especially when conditions are not ideal. It also reinforced my passion for civil engineering, where thoughtful planning and resilience can protect lives and ensure mission success even in uncertain environments. After graduation, I plan to commission into the United States Air Force as a Civil Engineer. I aim to contribute to base infrastructure, mission support operations, and long term facility development. My goal is to serve in roles that demand responsibility, adaptability, and teamwork, while continuing to grow as a leader. This scholarship would provide meaningful support as I balance ROTC, academics, and recovery. It would reduce financial strain and allow me to focus fully on my education and training. More importantly, it would help me continue pursuing a path rooted in service, resilience, and purpose. I am not defined by my diagnosis, but by my discipline and determination. Each 7 a.m. start is a reminder that progress is earned through consistency. Inspired by the legacy of Senior Airman TJ Sams Jr., I am committed to building a career that serves others and strengthens the mission I am preparing to join.

Most people wait for permission to build something meaningful. I never have. From an early stage in my academic journey, I learned that if I wanted opportunity, I had to create it. That mindset is what led me to pursue higher education in computer science and commit to an entrepreneurial path centered on innovation, execution, and impact. I am currently studying computer science because it provides the technical foundation required to turn ideas into functional, scalable businesses. Technology is no longer optional in entrepreneurship. It is the engine behind modern solutions. Through my studies, I am learning how to design systems, analyze problems, and build products that can operate in the real world. I chose this field not just to earn a degree, but to gain the skills necessary to create businesses that solve real problems and adapt to rapidly changing markets. Entrepreneurship has never been a distant goal for me. It is something I actively pursue. I have participated in pitch competitions and entrepreneurial challenges where I presented business concepts, defended my ideas before judges, and refined my ventures based on direct feedback. These experiences taught me how to communicate value clearly, analyze markets critically, and remain composed under pressure. More importantly, they taught me that execution matters more than intention. Each pitch competition strengthened my resilience. Not every idea landed perfectly, but every experience sharpened my ability to adapt. I learned how to revise business models, improve presentations, and identify weaknesses before they became failures. While many people fear rejection, I treat it as data. That mindset is what separates dreamers from builders. I plan to pursue an entrepreneurial career because I value ownership, responsibility, and the ability to create solutions instead of waiting for them. I am motivated by the process of building from nothing and improving through iteration. I do not expect instant success. I expect challenges, and I prepare for them. My willingness to learn continuously, work consistently, and adjust strategically is why I believe I will succeed where many do not. To me, a successful life is not defined by titles or short term wins. Success means independence, integrity, and impact. It means building ventures that create value, open doors for others, and stand on strong foundations. I want to build businesses that last because they are rooted in purpose and discipline, not trends. Higher education is critical to this vision. It strengthens my technical abilities and sharpens my thinking while giving me access to mentors, resources, and opportunities to test my ideas. When combined with real world entrepreneurial experience, my education becomes a launchpad rather than a safety net. This scholarship would support more than my academic journey. It would support my commitment to building boldly, learning relentlessly, and creating solutions with intention. I am not waiting to become an entrepreneur someday. I am already doing the work. With continued education and support, I am prepared to turn ambition into execution and ideas into lasting impact.

Education became my sense of direction during a period of my life defined by loss, uncertainty, and personal health challenges. When much of the support I once relied on disappeared, education remained the one constant that helped me stay grounded and focused on the future. Through grief, responsibility, and resilience, my educational journey has shaped my goals and strengthened my belief that growth is possible even in the face of adversity. For much of my childhood, my grandmother was the foundation of my family. She provided emotional stability, guidance, and encouragement, and her presence created a sense of security that held our household together. She was someone I could rely on for comfort and reassurance, and her support played a major role in my development. When she passed away, that foundation was suddenly gone. Her death left my father and me to navigate grief and daily life on our own. Losing her not only brought emotional pain, but also the loss of a key support system that we depended on. This loss affected my education in ways I did not expect. Grief made it difficult to focus, and the emotional weight of losing someone so important often followed me into the classroom. At the same time, my father and I were adjusting to increased responsibilities and reduced support. There were moments when school felt overwhelming and moments when motivation was hard to find. Despite this, education became a source of stability. School gave me structure when life felt unpredictable and reminded me that progress could still be made even during difficult transitions. As I was learning to cope with loss, I faced another major challenge when I was diagnosed with a brain lesion. Being told that there was an issue involving my brain forced me to confront fear and uncertainty at a young age. It raised questions about my health, my future, and my ability to succeed academically. Balancing medical concerns with school responsibilities required strength, discipline, and mental resilience. There were days filled with anxiety and exhaustion, but I refused to allow fear to determine my future. Continuing my education while managing health challenges taught me perseverance and self discipline. Each class I attended and every assignment I completed became proof that I was capable of pushing forward despite obstacles. Education gave me a sense of control during a time when my health and personal life felt uncertain. It helped rebuild my confidence and reminded me that progress is built through consistency and effort. Through these experiences, education shaped my sense of direction and purpose. I began to see learning as more than academic achievement. It became a tool for personal growth, independence, and transformation. Education taught me how to manage stress, solve problems, and remain committed to long term goals even when circumstances were difficult. These lessons extended beyond the classroom and influenced how I approach challenges in every area of my life. Facing loss, reduced support, and health challenges also deepened my empathy. I became more aware of how many people carry silent struggles related to grief, illness, or lack of guidance. These experiences shaped my desire to use my education to help others. I want to be someone who creates opportunities and offers encouragement to people who feel unsupported or uncertain about their future. I understand how important stability and guidance can be because I have experienced what it feels like to lose them. Although I am still refining my exact career path, I know that my education will allow me to build a better future. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain to make a meaningful impact, whether through leadership, mentorship, service, or innovation. My goal is not only to improve my own life, but also to contribute to solutions that uplift others and strengthen communities. Education represents hope and possibility for me. It allows me to honor the resilience my grandmother demonstrated and the strength my father continues to show. It gives me the tools to rise above adversity and transform hardship into purpose. Every step forward in my education is a step toward independence, stability, and meaningful contribution. Education has also taught me patience and perspective. It reminds me that growth is not always immediate, but it is always possible with consistency and effort. Each challenge I have faced has reinforced my belief that setbacks do not erase progress. Instead, they shape character and determination. I carry these lessons with me as motivation to remain focused and disciplined as I continue pursuing my goals. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It represents belief in students who continue striving despite loss, health challenges, and limited support. With this support, I can remain focused on my education and continue working toward a future shaped by perseverance, compassion, and purpose. Education has given me direction when life felt uncertain, and I am committed to using it to build a better tomorrow for myself and for others.

Growing up in a single parent household shaped who I am in ways I am still discovering. From a young age, I learned that life did not always come with guarantees. My parent carried the weight of providing, guiding, and protecting our family alone, and I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices that came with that responsibility. Watching them push through exhaustion and stress taught me resilience, even before I had a word for it. Living in a single parent home came with challenges that were both emotional and financial. There were moments when resources were limited and uncertainty felt constant. I often had to mature faster than others my age, helping around the house, managing responsibilities, and learning how to stay focused even when circumstances were difficult. While these challenges were not easy, they forced me to develop discipline, independence, and determination early in life. One of the hardest parts was seeing how much my parent carried without complaint. There were days when they were tired, overwhelmed, or worried, yet they still made time to encourage me and push me toward my goals. That support motivated me to work harder in school and in my personal life because I did not want their sacrifices to be wasted. Their strength became my example. Growing up this way also made me more aware of the struggles others face. I learned empathy by experiencing hardship myself. I noticed how many people around me were dealing with similar obstacles, whether it was financial stress, lack of guidance, or emotional pressure. Because of this, I naturally gravitated toward helping others whenever I could, whether through listening, encouraging classmates, or offering support when someone felt overlooked. As I think about my future, I may not have every detail figured out, but I know the values that will guide me. I want to use my talents and education to create opportunities for others, especially those who come from single parent or underserved households. I want to be someone who provides guidance, resources, and hope to people who feel stuck or uncertain about their future. I imagine a future where I can give back to my community in meaningful ways, whether through mentorship, education, technology, or service. My goal is to help people believe in themselves the way my parent believed in me. I want to turn the lessons I learned through struggle into tools that can uplift others. Coming from a single parent household did not limit me. It strengthened me. It taught me resilience, empathy, and perseverance. These experiences shaped my character and my desire to do good. No matter what career path I choose, I am committed to using my experiences and abilities to help others overcome challenges and build a better future.

From an early age, I learned that caring for others is not optional. It is a responsibility. Growing up with limited resources taught me how deeply access to safety, education, and opportunity shapes a person’s future. Those experiences formed my desire to pursue a career centered on service and protection, especially for communities that are often overlooked. I am currently pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on cybersecurity and emerging technologies. In today’s world, caring for others means more than physical presence. It means protecting personal data, medical records, financial systems, and digital identities. When these systems fail, real people are harmed. I want to be part of the solution by building and defending secure systems that people can trust. My commitment to care is reflected not only in my academic goals but also in how I live my life. As a collegiate athlete, I have learned discipline, resilience, and accountability. Balancing demanding training with rigorous coursework has strengthened my ability to perform under pressure and remain focused on long term goals. These qualities are essential in cybersecurity, where one mistake can have serious consequences. I am especially passionate about serving underserved populations. Cybercrime disproportionately affects seniors, low income families, healthcare providers, and small organizations that lack strong digital protection. My goal is to work in healthcare and public sector cybersecurity, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded and that technology remains a tool for healing and empowerment rather than harm. Beyond my career, I want to educate and uplift others. Many people do not understand how vulnerable their information is or how simple actions can significantly reduce risk. I plan to host community workshops, mentor students interested in technology, and create accessible resources that teach digital safety in a practical and inclusive way. Education is one of the most powerful forms of care. This scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my education with greater focus and stability. More importantly, it would affirm the values I have built my life around. Compassion, responsibility, and service. I am committed to using my skills to protect others, strengthen communities, and create lasting positive impact. I do not view success as something achieved alone. I view it as an opportunity to lift others. Through my career in cybersecurity and service driven technology, I intend to care for people in meaningful ways and help build a safer, more equitable in the future .

Beyond computer science, my goals are shaped by loss, resilience, faith, and a deep desire to create spaces where people feel seen and supported. Much of who I am today was formed not by comfort, but by learning how to stand on my own when support systems fell away. Those experiences taught me that success means little if it is not paired with compassion and service. I was raised by a single parent, my father, who instilled discipline in me because there was no room for excuses. Discipline was how we survived. Over time, that discipline became the structure that carried me through grief and uncertainty. I lost my uncle suddenly in a crash, and later my grandmother, who lived with heart failure and relied on a pacemaker. Watching her continue to give love while her body struggled taught me that strength does not always look powerful or loud. When she passed, I lost comfort and guidance at the same time. With both of them gone, I did not have extra people to depend on. I learned early that resilience had to come from within. These experiences shaped my goals beyond academics. I want to be a source of stability and encouragement for people who feel isolated or overwhelmed by life circumstances. I know what it feels like to carry grief quietly while still being expected to perform, succeed, and keep moving forward. Because of that, I want to be involved in mentorship and community support efforts that focus on emotional well being, discipline, and self worth. I want to help others understand that struggling does not mean failing. As someone who is both Jewish and Black, identity plays a central role in my non academic goals. In college, I often find myself navigating spaces where my existence feels questioned or misunderstood. I face assumptions, subtle hostility, and the emotional exhaustion that comes from constantly having to explain who I am. Practicing my faith adds another layer to that experience. Trying to eat kosher in environments that are not designed with Jewish students in mind can feel isolating and discouraging. These daily challenges have strengthened my desire to advocate for inclusion and understanding. I want to help create environments where people do not have to choose between their identity and their belonging. That means supporting interfaith dialogue, cultural awareness, and safe spaces where students can practice their beliefs without fear or discomfort. It also means standing up against ignorance, even when it is quiet or subtle, and choosing empathy over bitterness. I believe that representation matters, not for attention, but for healing. Faith guides much of my purpose outside of career goals. My faith in G-d has been what carried me through loss, illness, and loneliness. It taught me patience when answers were unclear and strength when the path felt heavy. I want my life beyond my profession to reflect service, humility, and care. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or simply being present for someone who feels unseen, I want my actions to reflect the values I live by. Ultimately, my non computer science goals are about impact on a human level. I want to build a life that uplifts others, especially those who feel alone in their struggles. While education and career success matter, they are not my only measure of purpose. Healing, representation, and service are just as important to me. I may not have had many people to depend on, but I carry the lessons of discipline, faith, and resilience with me every day. My goal is to ensure that others who walk a similar path.

Faith has never been something I spoke about lightly. It became real to me in moments when I had no one else to rely on but G-d and the discipline that had been instilled in me. Growing up in a single-parent household, my father raised me with structure, accountability, and an understanding that responsibility does not disappear simply because life becomes difficult. That discipline became the foundation of my faith, teaching me to keep moving forward even when comfort and certainty were absent. Loss shaped my understanding of resilience early in life. I lost my uncle in a sudden crash, a moment that forced me to confront how fragile and unpredictable life can be. Not long after, I lost my grandmother, who lived with heart failure and relied on a pacemaker. Despite her illness, she carried herself with quiet strength and unwavering grace. When she passed, I lost a source of warmth, guidance, and stability. With both of them gone, I did not have extra people to depend on. My world became smaller, and faith became less about belief and more about survival. That faith was tested further when I was diagnosed with a lesion on my brain. Facing an uncertain future at a young age brought fear that I often carried silently. In those moments, faith was not about understanding why things were happening. It was about trusting G-d enough to keep going when answers were not clear. I learned to focus on what I could control: my effort, my character, and my commitment to continue forward. Track became an extension of that discipline. Training taught me consistency, mental endurance, and how to push through discomfort without resentment. Running gave me structure when life felt unstable and reminded me that progress is built slowly, through repetition and perseverance. It became a daily act of faith, trusting that showing up would eventually lead somewhere meaningful. Now in college, I continue to walk much of this journey alone. Being both Jewish and Black has presented unique challenges in academic spaces. I often face misunderstanding, quiet hostility, and the burden of constantly explaining my identity. Practicing my faith requires navigating dietary restrictions and trying to eat kosher in environments where it is not always accessible or understood. These challenges can feel isolating, especially when support systems are limited, but they have strengthened my resolve rather than weakened it. My faith grounds me when others attempt to define me. It reminds me of who I am when the world is unkind or dismissive. Being on my own has taught me to rely not on validation, but on the values my father instilled in me and the faith that continues to guide me. I have learned that faith is not about ease, but about endurance. The Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship is meaningful to me because it reflects the reality of a faith that carries you through hardship rather than around it. I understand that unwavering faith is built through struggle, perseverance, and service. I plan to use my experiences to uplift others who feel unseen, misunderstood, or alone, offering the kind of encouragement I once needed myself. I did not choose every challenge placed in my path, but I choose how I respond to them. My faith in G-d has carried me through loss, illness, isolation, and uncertainty, and it continues to shape the person I am becoming. I move forward with discipline, compassion, and quiet confidence, trusting that even when the road is lonely, it is leading me exactly where I am meant to be.

Some people grow up surrounded by safety nets. Others learn early that strength must be built from within. Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy reflects service, sacrifice, and bravery, values that resonate deeply with my life because I have learned what it means to keep going when the people you lean on are taken from you. My understanding of resilience began with loss. My uncle passed away in a sudden crash, and his death changed my life in ways I was not prepared for. He was someone I looked up to, someone whose presence carried guidance even without many words. One lesson he shared with me stayed with me long after he was gone. He told me to be careful who I call my friends, because not everyone who stands beside you truly stands for you. Losing him forced me to grow up quickly and take responsibility for my choices, my environment, and the people I allowed into my life. My grandmother was another pillar in my world. She lived with heart failure and depended on a pacemaker, yet she carried herself with strength and grace. Even while her body struggled, she remained a source of love, stability, and quiet encouragement. Watching her endure illness without surrendering her spirit taught me that strength does not always show itself in dramatic ways. It lives in patience, consistency, and the will to keep showing up. When she passed away, I lost another source of support and comfort, and the circle around me grew even smaller. After losing my uncle and my grandmother, I did not have extra people to depend on. There was no extended support system ready to step in. What I did have was my father. Raised by a single parent, I learned discipline not as a suggestion, but as a way of life. With no mother to rely on, my father became my foundation. He taught me structure, accountability, and the importance of responsibility. He showed me that discipline is not about control, but about preparation for moments when life becomes unstable. That discipline became essential when I faced a serious health challenge of my own. I was diagnosed with a lesion on my brain, a reality that brought fear and uncertainty into my life. I did not know what limitations might come next or how my future would be affected. But discipline gave me something to hold onto. I focused on what I could control: my effort, my mindset, and my commitment to keep moving forward. Track and field became my outlet and my proving ground. Training demanded consistency, focus, and mental strength. Running through uncertainty taught me how to push forward even when doubt was present. Track gave me structure when life felt unpredictable and reinforced the discipline my father instilled in me. It reminded me that progress is built step by step, even when the road feels long. Eventually, I found myself on the East Coast, alone and far from familiarity. There was no one to fall back on when things became overwhelming. I had to rely on myself and the lessons passed down to me. Living independently forced me to mature quickly and carry responsibility without complaint. It taught me that being alone does not mean being powerless. Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy reminds me that service is not always visible, but it is always intentional. His courage inspires me to continue pushing forward, not only for myself, but for those who come after me. I carry my father’s discipline, the strength my grandmother embodied, and the lessons left by my uncle into everything I do. I did not choose every loss I faced, but I choose how I respond to them. My goal is not only to survive, but to serve, to lead, and to make the path easier for someone else. That is how I honor this legacy, and that is why I will continue forward.

One of the most influential people in my life was my uncle, who served in the United States Navy. He did not speak often about medals or rank, but when he did share stories, they carried lessons that stayed with me long after the conversation ended. Through him, I learned that service is not only about duty to country, but about discipline, awareness, and the people you choose to stand beside. My uncle once told me that the Navy taught him many things, but one lesson mattered more than most: be careful who you call your friends. He explained that in the military, trust is everything. The people around you can either help you survive difficult moments or make them harder. In high pressure situations, character is revealed, and not everyone who smiles beside you is truly looking out for you. That lesson stayed with me because it applied far beyond the military. Growing up, I watched my uncle live by that principle. He valued loyalty, accountability, and honesty. He chose his circle carefully and expected the same from me. When I faced moments of peer pressure or uncertainty, his words echoed in my mind. He reminded me that true friends challenge you to be better, not comfortable. That advice helped guide my decisions, especially during times when it would have been easier to follow the crowd rather than stay focused on my goals. His service in the Navy also showed me what commitment looks like. He accepted sacrifice as part of responsibility and understood that long term success requires discipline. Watching him carry himself with quiet confidence and purpose taught me that strength does not need to be loud to be real. He served not for recognition, but because he believed in doing his part, a value that deeply shaped how I approach my own responsibilities today. Although my uncle is no longer here, his influence remains present in my life. I carry his lessons with me in how I approach education, relationships, and leadership. When I think about the choices I make and the people I surround myself with, I think of him. His guidance helped me develop discernment and self respect, qualities that continue to shape who I am becoming. This scholarship honors the legacy of service, and my uncle’s life reflects that legacy in a personal and lasting way. His lessons were not just words, but principles he lived by. I strive to honor his service by living intentionally, choosing integrity over convenience, and surrounding myself with people who push me toward growth. Because of my uncle, I understand that service is not only worn on a uniform. It is reflected in character, in choices, and in the standards you hold for yourself and others. That is the legacy he left me, and it is one I carry forward every day.

Legacy, to me, is not something measured by names on buildings or years lived. It is measured by what continues through you after the people who shaped you are gone. My understanding of legacy has been formed by three people who left lasting imprints on my life: my grandmother, my father, and my uncle. Each of them taught me something different about strength, responsibility, and the meaning of carrying others forward. My grandmother was the quiet backbone of my family. Even as she lived with heart failure and depended on a pacemaker, she carried herself with grace and determination. She never allowed her illness to take away her role as a source of comfort and stability for everyone around her. Watching her endure physical limitations while continuing to give love so freely showed me that true strength is often silent. Her legacy lives in the way she chose perseverance over self pity and care over complaint, lessons that continue to guide how I approach hardship. My uncle’s influence came through loss. He passed away suddenly in a car accident, and his absence left a space that words cannot fully explain. Losing him taught me how fragile time truly is. It made me realize that legacy is not about how much time you are given, but how intentionally you live within it. His passing forced me to grow up faster, to reflect more deeply, and to understand that the impact you make matters long after you are gone. My father shaped me through presence and sacrifice. During my final year of high school, I lived with him and learned what it truly means to show up when life does not offer an easy path. With no mother to depend on, my father became my foundation. He carried responsibility without complaint and modeled what resilience looks like in real life. From him, I learned independence, accountability, and the importance of continuing forward even when the weight feels heavy. My upbringing was not defined by comfort, but by adaptation. I learned early that stability is not always given, it is built. That understanding pushed me toward education and toward fields like STEM and technology, where problem solving and long term thinking are essential. I plan to continue the cycle of resilience that was passed down to me, while breaking cycles of limitation by creating opportunities not only for myself, but for others who may come from similar circumstances. Legacy, to me, means honoring the people who shaped me by living in a way that reflects their sacrifices. It means carrying my grandmother’s strength, my uncle’s reminder of urgency, and my father’s sense of responsibility into everything I do. I cannot change what I lost, but I can choose what I build. When my story is looked back on, I hope it is clear that the cycle did not end in absence or struggle, but in growth, purpose, and a future made stronger because of those who came before me.

Every system we build leaves a footprint. Some are visible in concrete and steel, while others exist quietly in code, data, and digital infrastructure, shaping how resources are used and how communities grow. As a computer science student focused on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and business systems, I believe sustainability must be treated as a core design principle rather than an optional consideration. Technology has the power to magnify human impact at an unprecedented scale, which makes responsible innovation not only important, but necessary. From an early age, I learned that progress without foresight often comes with long term consequences. Expansion can look like success in the short term, yet it frequently carries environmental costs that are ignored until they become impossible to reverse. As digital platforms grow faster and more complex, their environmental footprint increases as well. Data centers consume massive amounts of energy, inefficient systems create unnecessary waste, and poorly designed technology often prioritizes speed over responsibility. These realities shaped my belief that sustainability must be built into technology from the ground up. My academic goals center on developing secure, efficient, and scalable systems that reduce waste while improving performance. In cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, efficiency is not just a technical advantage, it is an environmental one. Systems that are poorly optimized require excessive computing power, redundant infrastructure, and constant maintenance, all of which increase energy consumption. By focusing on streamlined algorithms, responsible data management, and resilient system design, I aim to reduce both digital waste and environmental strain while maintaining high levels of security and reliability. Through hands on projects, I have seen how small design choices can lead to significant impact. While building e commerce simulators and AI driven platforms, I learned how automation can either encourage overproduction or help create smarter, demand based systems. Thoughtfully designed automation can reduce excess inventory, improve logistics efficiency, and limit unnecessary transportation. Secure systems also prevent fraud, data loss, and inefficiencies that waste resources at scale. These experiences reinforced my belief that sustainability and technological innovation are not competing goals, but complementary ones. Looking forward, I envision a career where technology supports smarter cities, cleaner supply chains, and environmentally responsible business practices. Artificial intelligence can be used to optimize energy use, predict waste patterns, and improve resource allocation across industries. Secure financial and data systems can support transparency, accountability, and long term planning. By combining technical expertise with a sustainability focused mindset, I want to help organizations make decisions that are not only profitable, but responsible. The Future Green Leaders Scholarship represents more than financial support. It represents a belief that students today can shape a better future through intentional action and thoughtful leadership. Sustainability is no longer a choice reserved for environmental fields alone. It is a responsibility shared by every discipline, especially those that drive innovation and growth. As technology continues to define how the world operates, the values embedded in these systems will matter more than ever. If the future is written by the systems we build today, then I am committed to helping write one that does not sacrifice the planet for progress, and does not leave the next generation fixing what we failed to consider. If you want, I can also adjust the tone to be more personal, make the hook sharper, or tune it exactly to Bold.org’s scoring style.

When you grow up navigating hardship, giving back stops being optional and becomes a responsibility. I learned this early through family loss, financial struggle, and later through my own health challenges. At a young age, I watched my grandmother battle heart disease while living on limited income, yet she still gave me stability, patience, and love. Years later, I faced another defining challenge of my own when doctors discovered a brain lesion. Experiencing serious health uncertainty at a young age changed how I view time, purpose, and responsibility to others. Living with a brain lesion forced me to mature quickly. Balancing medical appointments, fear of the unknown, and college responsibilities taught me resilience and empathy. I learned what it feels like to rely on doctors, support systems, and personal discipline just to keep moving forward. That experience deepened my commitment to give back, especially to those facing invisible struggles. I understand firsthand that not all battles are visible, and sometimes the strongest people are the ones silently pushing through pain. Currently, I give back through mentorship, education, and leadership. As a computer science student focused on cybersecurity and emerging technologies, I regularly help classmates and younger students navigate challenging technical concepts such as programming, online safety, and academic planning. Many students from underserved backgrounds feel intimidated by technology or lack confidence because they have never been exposed to it. I take the time to explain concepts clearly, encourage questions, and remind them that intelligence is not defined by background or resources. I also share scholarship opportunities and college survival strategies with peers who are navigating higher education independently, just as I am. Athletics is another way I give back. As a collegiate track and field athlete, I lead through discipline, consistency, and resilience. Training while managing health concerns taught me how to push forward responsibly and listen to my body, lessons I share with teammates who may be struggling physically or mentally. I make myself available to support others, whether that means encouragement after a tough practice or helping someone stay focused academically. Giving back often means being present when others feel overwhelmed or discouraged. In the future, I plan to expand my impact through technology and advocacy. My long term goal is to work in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence to protect individuals and communities from digital harm, especially those who are most vulnerable. I also want to build educational platforms that make STEM fields accessible to students from low income and underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, I hope to advocate for greater awareness and support for young people dealing with neurological and health challenges, ensuring they are not defined or limited by their diagnosis. Giving back, to me, is about transforming adversity into purpose. My experiences with loss, illness, and perseverance have shaped my character and strengthened my desire to serve others. This scholarship would not only support my education, but also empower me to continue giving back through mentorship, innovation, and leadership. My goal is not just to succeed, but to make my journey meaningful by helping others believe in their own potential.

Online tutoring has been one of the most effective tools in my educational journey because it turns confusion into clarity through personalized, one on one support. As a student studying computer science and technology related subjects, I have learned that understanding does not come from memorization alone, but from being able to ask questions, receive feedback, and apply concepts in real time. Online tutoring platforms like Learner make that possible. One of the biggest advantages of online tutoring is flexibility. Balancing academics, athletics, and health challenges required me to learn efficiently and on my own schedule. Through online tutoring sessions, I was able to focus on specific problem areas rather than sit through material I already understood. Having access to tutors who could break down complex topics step by step helped me build strong foundations instead of falling behind. The one on one nature of online tutoring helped me learn how to think, not just what to think. Tutors guided me through problem solving processes, asked questions that challenged my understanding, and helped me recognize patterns in my mistakes. This approach improved my confidence and taught me how to independently approach difficult concepts. I now apply these strategies across subjects, from technical coursework to real world projects. Online tutoring also helped me translate knowledge into action. While dealing with a medical diagnosis, I continued learning remotely and used online educational resources and tutoring support to build an educational application focused on brain health awareness. The ability to ask targeted questions and receive immediate guidance allowed me to keep progressing even when traditional classroom learning was not accessible. I later presented this project in an academic setting, proving that online learning can lead to meaningful, real world outcomes. Beyond academics, tutoring shaped how I help others learn. After experiencing the benefits of personalized instruction, I began assisting peers by explaining concepts in ways that made sense to them. Teaching others reinforced my own understanding and showed me the impact that accessible tutoring can have on confidence and motivation. One conversation can change how a student views their abilities. Online tutoring platforms like Learner also encourage accountability. Knowing I had scheduled sessions motivated me to prepare, review material beforehand, and take ownership of my learning. This structure helped me develop time management and discipline skills that extend far beyond school. As I continue my education, online tutoring will remain a central part of how I learn and grow. I plan to keep using personalized learning platforms to strengthen my technical skills and to support others who may need guidance. Education should adapt to students’ needs, and online tutoring makes that possible. The Learner Online Learning Innovator Scholarship represents the future of education. With this support, I will continue using one on one tutoring to deepen my understanding, apply knowledge in real world settings, and help create learning environments where students feel supported rather than overwhelmed.

Mental health has shaped my life in quiet but lasting ways, influencing my family, my personal growth, and the way I show up for others. I learned early that mental illness is not always visible, yet it can affect every part of daily life, relationships, and resilience. I was raised by my grandmother, who was my caregiver, my home, and my emotional foundation. While she lived with serious physical health challenges, including heart disease, I also witnessed the emotional and mental strain that long-term illness can bring. There were days when worry and exhaustion weighed heavily on her, yet she remained patient, loving, and slow to anger. Watching her navigate hardship with grace taught me that emotional strength is not loud or dramatic. Often, it is steady, quiet, and deeply intentional. Living together in a small one-bedroom apartment with limited resources, I became aware of how financial stress, illness, and mental health intersect. Mental health was not something openly discussed, but it was always present. I learned to be attentive, to listen closely, and to recognize when someone needed comfort rather than answers. Simple moments, like hugging my grandmother every day after school, became grounding rituals that reminded me how powerful emotional connection can be. Losing her was one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Grief introduced feelings of sadness, confusion, and isolation that I did not immediately know how to process. I continued to carry responsibilities in school and athletics while learning how to live with loss. That experience showed me how mental health challenges can exist even when someone appears strong and capable on the outside. Later, being diagnosed with a brain lesion added another layer to my mental health journey. Facing uncertainty about my health brought anxiety and fear, especially while balancing academics and competitive athletics. There were moments when the pressure felt overwhelming, but I learned the importance of structure, routine, and healthy coping strategies. I discovered resilience not by ignoring fear, but by continuing forward despite it. These experiences shaped my empathy and leadership. I am more aware of the struggles people may carry silently, and I make a conscious effort to support others through patience and understanding. Mental health has influenced how I mentor, how I lead, and how I define success. I believe progress is not only measured by achievement, but by how we care for ourselves and those around us. Mental illness has been part of my journey, but it has not defined my limitations. Instead, it has strengthened my awareness, compassion, and sense of purpose. I hope to continue advocating for mental health awareness and contributing to environments where individuals feel supported, understood, and valued.

Growing up, my grandmother was not just my caregiver, she was my home, my safety, and my example of strength. I lived with her in a small one bedroom apartment while she battled heart disease and relied on a pacemaker. Even while living on government assistance and managing her own health, she never allowed hardship to harden her heart. To me, she was a true soldier. From a young age, I witnessed what it meant to live with cardiac disease. There were days when simple tasks exhausted her, and moments when her pace slowed, but her spirit never did. I asked her questions about her pacemaker and her condition, and she answered patiently, always calm and slow to anger. Her resilience taught me that strength is not measured by physical ability alone, but by perseverance and love. Every day after school, I would get off the bus and hug her, knowing I would walk into a home filled with warmth. No matter how tired she was, she made sure I had a home cooked meal and a place to rest. I slept beside her, and that closeness shaped my understanding of care, responsibility, and gratitude. Watching her push forward despite her health challenges left a lasting impression on me. As her condition worsened, the obstacles became heavier. I saw firsthand how heart disease affects not only the patient, but the entire family. Medical appointments, financial strain, and emotional stress became part of everyday life. Still, she faced it all with quiet courage. She showed me how to remain composed in moments of uncertainty and how to love without complaint. The most difficult obstacle I faced was losing her. In her final days, she was on life support for a week and unable to speak. The last time she spoke clearly, she said she did not feel okay. The final words I said to her were goodbye as I hugged her tightly. She could not respond, but she moved her toe, and I knew she felt me. That moment stays with me every day. Watching my grandmother pass away from complications related to heart disease changed me deeply. It forced me to grow up quickly and taught me how fragile life can be. It also gave me motivation. Her strength, patience, and love continue to guide me through challenges in my own life, including balancing academics, athletics, and personal health obstacles. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It honors individuals who have been impacted by heart disease, and my grandmother’s legacy lives through me. I carry her lessons forward by working hard, staying disciplined, and pushing through adversity with humility. Everything I strive to accomplish is rooted in the example she set. Though heart disease took her from me, it also gave me a lifelong source of strength.

I am a fan of Wicked because it tells a story that feels real, even in a world filled with magic. At its core, Wicked is not just about witches or fantasy, but about identity, perception, and what happens when someone refuses to conform to what the world expects of them. That message is what keeps the story meaningful to me. What resonates with me most is how Wicked challenges the idea of good versus evil. Elphaba is labeled “wicked” not because of her character, but because she is different, outspoken, and unwilling to compromise her values. Watching her journey made me reflect on how often people are judged by surface level traits or misunderstood actions. It reminded me that truth is often more complicated than the labels society assigns. Elphaba’s determination stands out to me. She does not seek approval or popularity, yet she remains committed to doing what she believes is right. That choice comes at a cost, including isolation and sacrifice, but she accepts it rather than abandoning her integrity. As someone pursuing goals that require discipline and long term focus, I find that lesson powerful. Wicked shows that growth and purpose are rarely comfortable, and that staying true to yourself can mean standing alone at times. Another reason I connect with Wicked is the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. Their friendship is imperfect, evolving, and honest. They begin as opposites, clash often, and yet influence each other in meaningful ways. Their dynamic shows that people can grow together even when they ultimately choose different paths. That idea feels realistic and comforting. It reflects how relationships in real life change as people mature, make choices, and pursue their own goals. The music in Wicked also plays a major role in why I am a fan. Songs like “Defying Gravity” capture a moment that feels universal: the decision to stop living by others’ expectations and take control of your own future. It is not about rebellion for its own sake, but about self belief. That moment of choosing yourself is something many people experience, whether in education, career paths, or personal growth. What I appreciate most about Wicked is that it does not present easy answers. It acknowledges that doing the right thing can come with consequences and that courage does not always lead to praise. Instead, it emphasizes resilience, self awareness, and empathy. It encourages viewers to look beyond appearances and question the narratives they are given. Ultimately, I am a fan of Wicked because it reminds me that being different is not a flaw and that purpose often requires strength. It celebrates individuality, challenges assumptions, and shows that real growth comes from choosing authenticity over comfort. That message continues to resonate with me and is why Wicked remains meaningful long after the curtain falls.

During my hospital stay, I was surrounded by uncertainty. Doctors spoke in medical terms that were difficult to understand, and I realized how overwhelming health information can feel when your life is suddenly affected. Instead of shutting down, I decided to build something. Using my background in computer science, I began developing an educational brain lesion application designed to explain neurological conditions in a clear, accessible way. The app focused on helping patients, families, and students understand what a brain lesion is, how the brain functions, and how technology can support awareness and care. Building that app while dealing with my own diagnosis was both challenging and empowering. It gave me purpose at a time when everything felt out of my control. I spent hours researching, designing, and coding, turning medical confusion into a tool for education. That project became more than an assignment. It became proof that innovation can come from the hardest moments. When I returned to campus, I presented the app in class and later in front of university leadership, including the university chairman. Standing there, sharing a project that was born in a hospital room, was one of the most defining moments of my academic journey. It showed me that my ideas mattered and that technology has the power to connect personal experience with real world impact. That experience shaped what I hope to build in the future. I want to create technology driven platforms that educate, protect, and empower communities. My long term vision is to build programs and tools that combine cybersecurity, digital literacy, and health education so people can better understand the systems affecting their lives. Too often, underserved communities lack access to clear information and technical resources. I want to help change that. Building this app taught me that education is not just about degrees or careers. It is about using knowledge to serve others. Competing as a student athlete while managing a medical condition reinforced the same lesson. Progress is built through discipline, resilience, and belief. This scholarship would support my ability to continue building meaningful solutions through education. I am not just aiming higher for myself. I am building a future where technology meets empathy and innovation creates opportunity for others.

I chose to pursue STEM because it gave me answers during a time when my life was full of questions. Growing up in a single parent household, I learned early that stability is not guaranteed and that many people are forced to figure things out on their own. I became curious about how things worked because understanding felt like a form of control. STEM gave me that sense of control and eventually gave me purpose. That purpose became deeply personal when I was diagnosed with a brain lesion. Hearing that something was wrong with my brain forced me to confront fear in a way I never had before. I had to balance school, athletics, and uncertainty about my health all at once. Instead of pushing me away from science, that experience pulled me closer. I wanted to understand what was happening inside my body and how technology and innovation play a role in diagnosis, treatment, and protection. It made me realize how powerful STEM can be when it is used to serve people. As a person of color pursuing STEM, I am aware that many students who look like me never get the encouragement or exposure needed to see themselves in technical fields. I have often been the only one in the room who shared my background, and that can feel isolating. But it also motivated me. Representation matters because it changes what people believe is possible. I want my presence in STEM to challenge assumptions and create space for others who come after me. I have already seen how access and mentorship can change lives. Through tutoring peers and helping younger students, I watched confidence grow the moment someone realized they were capable of understanding a difficult concept. That moment is powerful. It reminded me that innovation is not just about building technology, but about making knowledge accessible. My goal is to use my STEM education to create opportunities for students from underserved communities, especially those who may feel excluded due to lack of resources, health challenges, or self doubt. Competing as a student athlete at the Junior Olympic level reinforced these lessons. Training at a high level while managing a medical condition required discipline, mental toughness, and adaptability. Those same qualities are essential in STEM. Problem solving often requires patience, persistence, and the ability to keep going when progress feels slow. Sports taught me how to fail, adjust, and try again, which is the foundation of innovation. I plan to pursue a career in technology and cybersecurity where I can protect systems, people, and information while also giving back through mentorship and education. Long term, I want to help build programs that teach STEM skills in communities that are often overlooked. I want students of color to see STEM not as something distant or intimidating, but as something that belongs to them. This scholarship would not only support my education, but affirm that my story, perspective, and goals matter. I am pursuing STEM not just to succeed for myself, but to create pathways for others. My journey taught me that adversity can spark purpose, and I am committed to using STEM to turn that purpose into impact.

My journey as a student athlete has been defined not only by competition, but by resilience, faith, and purpose. Growing up in a single parent household, I learned early that perseverance was not a choice. It was a necessity. Sports became my outlet, my structure, and eventually my calling. Through AAU track and field and competing at the Junior Olympic level, I discovered that youth sports are more than games. They are lifelines for young people searching for direction, confidence, and hope. My athletic journey took on deeper meaning when I was diagnosed with a brain lesion. Facing a medical challenge at a young age forced me to confront fear, uncertainty, and vulnerability. Training while managing health concerns tested me physically and mentally, but it also reshaped my perspective. Every practice, every race, and every setback became a reminder that progress is not guaranteed and that perseverance is powerful. Competing at the Junior Olympics despite this challenge taught me that strength is not the absence of struggle, but the determination to keep moving forward anyway. Sports taught me leadership through adversity. There were moments when my body felt weak and my mind was heavy, yet my teammates still looked to me for encouragement. I learned that leadership is not about perfection. It is about presence. Showing up on hard days, pushing through doubt, and staying disciplined even when outcomes are uncertain taught me how to lead with empathy. My experiences allowed me to understand others who are fighting silent battles, whether physical, emotional, or personal. Youth sports saved me by giving me structure during uncertainty and purpose during pain. That is why I am committed to giving back. I plan to mentor young athletes, especially those facing health challenges, financial limitations, or unstable home environments. I want them to see someone who understands their struggles and proves that limitations do not define potential. Through coaching, mentoring, and community programs, I plan to use sports as a platform to teach discipline, accountability, and self belief. My goal is to create safe and supportive athletic spaces where young people feel seen, challenged, and empowered. I will emphasize academic responsibility alongside athletic growth, teaching youth that success is holistic. Sports can open doors, but education and character determine how far someone walks through them. I want to guide young athletes not just to compete, but to lead in the classroom, in their communities, and in life. The legacy of Jimmie DC Sullivan represents commitment to youth sports and community impact, values that deeply align with my mission. This scholarship would not only ease my financial burden, but strengthen my ability to serve others. It would allow me to continue pursuing excellence while preparing to give back in meaningful ways. I carry my journey with pride. The victories, the setbacks, and the moments when giving up would have been easier. Every challenge shaped my character and strengthened my resolve. Through leadership, mentorship, and service, I will honor the role youth sports played in saving me by becoming that same source of hope for others. My goal is not just to compete or succeed, but to lead with purpose and leave a lasting impact so that the next generation believes, as I learned to, that adversity does not end a story. It begins one.

I am a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because her career represents persistence, self trust, and growth in an industry that constantly tries to define people before they are ready. What resonates with me most is how she has taken control of her voice over time, both creatively and personally, and refused to stay boxed into anyone else’s expectations. Sabrina’s journey has never been about instant validation. She grew up in the public eye, faced criticism, comparison, and doubt, yet continued evolving. Watching her transition from early acting roles into music that feels confident, self aware, and unapologetic showed me that growth does not require permission. It requires courage. Albums like Emails I Can’t Send reflect emotional honesty without oversharing, strength without defensiveness, and maturity without losing personality. That balance is rare. Her music has impacted me during moments when I had to learn how to stand on my own. As someone navigating adulthood far from home, dealing with health challenges, financial pressure, and responsibility early, I connected deeply to her themes of self respect and emotional clarity. Sabrina’s lyrics often explore knowing when to speak, when to walk away, and when to protect your peace. Those lessons helped me reframe how I approach stress, boundaries, and confidence. What I admire most about her career is how intentional it has become. She does not rush growth or chase validation. She lets her work speak while still owning her narrative. That mindset has influenced how I pursue my own goals in higher education and beyond. I am learning that success is not about being loud or perfect, but about being consistent, disciplined, and authentic. Being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter is not just about enjoying her music. It is about seeing someone choose self belief over doubt and evolution over comfort. Her career reminds me that growth takes time, and that finding your voice is a process worth protecting. That message continues to shape how I move forward in my own life, with confidence, intention, and resilience.

The Taylor Swift performance that moves me the most is her live performance during the Eras Tour, especially “All Too Well (10 Minute Version).” What makes this performance unforgettable to me is not only what it sounded like from the audience, but what it felt like to witness from the inside. Last year, I worked one of her concerts in New Orleans. I was not just a fan in the crowd. I was behind the scenes, wearing the gear, watching the show from a perspective most people never experience. Being there showed me how intentional every moment of her performance is. From the timing of the lights to the silence between lyrics, nothing is accidental. When she performed “All Too Well,” the stadium felt like it shrank. Even surrounded by thousands of people, the emotion was focused and controlled. Watching her hold that level of vulnerability while standing under immense pressure made the performance feel deeply human. What struck me most was how calm and grounded she was. As someone who was working, focused, and moving equipment, I still felt pulled into the moment. The energy shifted. You could feel the weight of the story she was telling, not as someone reliving pain, but as someone who had survived it. That distinction mattered. It showed strength without erasing emotion. Working that concert gave me a deeper respect for her career and for “The Life of a Showgirl.” From behind the scenes, I saw how much discipline, endurance, and emotional regulation it takes to perform night after night at that level. Taylor Swift does not just perform her songs. She carries them with intention, responsibility, and control. This performance resonated with me because it mirrored my own life experiences. Standing there in my work gear, balancing responsibility while absorbing emotion, I understood that strength does not mean being untouched by hardship. It means showing up anyway. Taylor’s performance of “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” represents that balance perfectly. It is why that moment, that song, and that performance will always stay with me.

Growing up in a single parent and low income household meant learning how to survive before learning how to dream. I was raised by my father, who carried everything alone. I watched exhaustion sit in his shoulders and worry live in his silence. There was no cushion if something went wrong. That reality shaped my mind early. I learned to stay alert, to endure, and to keep moving even when fear sat quietly in the background. Now I am thousands of miles away from home, living in another state, completely on my own. There are moments when the distance feels heavy in my chest. When something goes wrong, there is no one nearby to step in. I have had to learn how to regulate my emotions, make decisions alone, and push through isolation while still performing in school. Independence was not a choice. It was a necessity. One of the most frightening moments of my life was being diagnosed with brain lesions. Suddenly my own mind felt unfamiliar. Coming from a low income household, navigating insurance, medical language, and uncertainty for the first time was overwhelming. I had to learn how to advocate for myself while scared, while sick, and while still trying to appear strong. The stress of not knowing what was covered or what came next weighed heavily on me. It forced me to confront vulnerability head on. At the same time, I was grieving loss in my family. There was no pause button. I carried grief, fear, and responsibility all at once. Mentally, it felt like standing still while the world kept demandingunning. Despite everything, I am actively pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a focus on cybersecurity. I want to build systems that protect others.

Calculus is important in STEM because it teaches you how to survive uncertainty. When I first began studying calculus, I did not feel confident or prepared. I felt intimidated, overwhelmed, and at times afraid of failing. But as difficult as it was, calculus became one of the most meaningful experiences in my education because it forced me to confront challenge instead of avoiding it. Calculus is not just about numbers. It is about learning how to think when nothing comes easily. It teaches patience when answers are not immediate and courage when concepts feel impossible. In STEM, especially in fields like computer science and cybersecurity, problems rarely have clear solutions. Systems fail, threats evolve, and decisions must be made under pressure. Calculus prepares you for that reality by training your mind to stay steady in moments of confusion. There were nights when I sat with problems I did not understand, questioning whether I truly belonged in STEM. Balancing school, financial stress, and personal responsibility made those moments heavier. But each time I chose to keep going, something changed. I learned that understanding does not come from talent alone, but from persistence. Calculus taught me that growth often begins where comfort ends. In technology and information security, calculus plays a hidden but powerful role. It helps explain how systems scale, how data moves, and how small vulnerabilities can grow into major risks. Understanding rates of change and optimization is essential to protecting networks and building reliable systems. Calculus gives structure to uncertainty and turns complexity into something that can be analyzed and improved. What makes calculus truly important is the confidence it builds. Every concept mastered felt like proof that I could handle pressure and still move forward. That confidence matters in STEM fields where innovation depends on resilience and the willingness to keep learning even when progress is slow. Calculus does not just sharpen technical skills. It strengthens belief in oneself. Pursuing STEM is deeply personal to me. It represents stability, opportunity, and the chance to create a future defined by impact rather than limitation. Calculus is part of that journey because it challenges you to rise higher than you think you can. It teaches discipline, humility, and perseverance, qualities that extend far beyond the classroom. This scholarship would ease the financial burden that comes with pursuing a demanding STEM education and allow me to focus fully on growth rather than survival. Calculus is difficult, but it shaped me into someone who does not retreat from difficulty. That lesson will stay with me long after the class ends, guiding me through every challenge that lies ahead.

One of the most defining challenges of my education began with my health. I was diagnosed with brain lesions while still in school, and facing a condition that directly affected my brain forced me to confront fear and uncertainty at a very young age. There were moments when I questioned whether I would be able to continue my education or maintain the goals I had worked so hard to build. Learning to push forward while managing medical concerns taught me resilience, discipline, and mental strength. At the same time, I was raised in a single parent household, living with my father. He carried the responsibility of providing, supporting, and encouraging me on his own while also worrying about my health. Watching him stay strong through uncertainty showed me what perseverance truly looks like. Living in a single parent household meant there was no backup plan and no room to give up. I learned independence early and understood the value of hard work and commitment. Despite these challenges, I remained focused on my education and athletics. I am currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a concentration in cybersecurity. Balancing coursework, training as a student athlete, and managing medical appointments required constant effort and determination. There were days when my body and mind felt exhausted, but I continued to show up because I knew my future depended on it. Alongside health and academic pressure, I experienced loss within my family. I have faced death up close, including losing someone I lived with and loved deeply. Grieving while still expected to perform in school forced me to mature quickly. It taught me that life is fragile, time is limited, and effort matters. These experiences reshaped how I approach every opportunity I am given. My experiences have shaped my long term goals. After completing my degree, I plan to work in cybersecurity and technology development, with the goal of building systems that protect people and create stability for families facing uncertainty. I want to turn the challenges I survived into purpose and service. Living with brain lesions, navigating loss, and being raised in a single parent household has given me focus, gratitude, and resilience. This scholarship would ease the financial burden my father carries alone and allow me to continue pursuing my education with stability and determination. It would support not only my academic journey, but the strength and perseverance that brought me here.

When I was fourteen years old, I experienced a loss that changed me forever. My uncle died in a truck accident, and with him went a sense of safety and stability I had known my whole life. I did not just know my uncle. I lived with him. I slept in the same house, shared daily routines, and saw him almost every day. He was part of my normal, and when he was gone, everything felt empty. I still remember the last time I saw him. He said goodbye like it was any ordinary day. I watched him leave, not knowing that would be the final time I would ever see him. He never came back. That moment replays in my mind often, and I wish I had known how much it would matter. My uncle helped raise me. He taught me life lessons without ever needing to lecture me. One of my clearest memories is cutting grass together. We worked side by side, talking about responsibility, effort, and doing what needs to be done even when it is hard. Those moments taught me discipline and pride in my work. He showed me how to be consistent, dependable, and strong for others. When he passed away, the house felt different. Nights were the hardest because that was when I realized he was truly gone. Losing someone I lived with made the grief unavoidable. I felt confusion, sadness, and anger all at once. His death taught me how fragile life is and how quickly everything can change without warning. This loss shaped who I am today. It forced me to grow emotionally and mentally at a young age. I learned to value time, family, and the small moments we often overlook. I no longer take goodbyes lightly. I try to be present, to work hard, and to treat people with care because I know how easily they can be taken away. My uncle’s memory continues to guide my goals and outlook on life. When I feel tired or discouraged, I think about the lessons he gave me and the example he set. I push myself to succeed not only for me, but to honor him. I want my life to reflect the values he lived by. I miss my uncle every day. I miss waking up knowing he was there, working with him, and learning from him just by being around him. Although his life ended too soon, his impact on mine will never fade. His loss shaped me into a more focused, grateful, and determined person, and his lessons continue to walk with me wherever I go.

Justin Moeller Memorial Scholarship Essay for Malachi Batiste My name is Malachi Batiste, and my journey into Information Technology began with a single broken laptop on my grandmother’s kitchen table. I was fourteen, curious, and determined to understand why it wouldn’t turn on. I spent hours taking it apart, researching every piece I didn’t recognize, and teaching myself how to restore it. When the screen finally lit up, something transformed inside me. That moment ignited a passion for technology that would shape my academic path, my goals, and my purpose. I am now a Computer Science major with a concentration in Cybersecurity at Bowie State University, and I am committed to becoming a cybersecurity specialist who protects vulnerable systems and empowers communities like the one I come from. As a young Black male in a field where students who look like me are significantly underrepresented, I understand that my pursuit is about more than a career—it is about visibility, equity, and opening doors for the next generation. What fascinates me most about IT is its power to solve real problems and shape the future. Cybersecurity—specifically threat detection and systems protection—captured my attention because of its importance in safeguarding individuals, schools, hospitals, businesses, and entire communities. The idea that one well-trained professional can prevent a breach, protect private information, or defend a network from attack motivates me to work relentlessly. I want to be one of those professionals. To strengthen my technical skills, I have pursued hands-on projects that challenged me to think critically. I built a custom PC from scratch, assembled networks within my home to understand traffic flow, and experimented with basic penetration testing to analyze how vulnerabilities can be exploited and repaired. I also repaired devices for friends, staff, and community members—phones, laptops, and routers—because I wanted to learn by doing. These experiences gave me practical insight that no classroom alone could provide. My motivation is also shaped by the challenges I have faced. I grew up with limited access to technology, no mentors in the IT field, and financial obstacles that made pursuing a technology career feel distant. But instead of being discouraged, I became resourceful. I relied on free online courses, open-source tools, refurbished equipment, and my own determination to grow. These early barriers are why I am committed to giving back: I want students from underrepresented backgrounds to know they belong in this field too. Leadership has also played a significant role in my journey. I participated in school technology clubs, helped teachers troubleshoot classroom systems, and mentored younger students who wanted to learn about coding and hardware repair. I also volunteered at community tech fairs where kids received refurbished devices. Seeing their excitement reinforced my belief that technology is not just a career—it is a bridge to opportunity. The Justin Moeller Memorial Scholarship, funded by WorkStream Technology, would reduce the financial strain of my education and allow me to continue pursuing coursework, certifications, and hands-on training essential to my development. Your support would not only lighten my financial burden—it would empower me to excel, contribute meaningfully to the cybersecurity field, and uplift other underrepresented students along the way. I am determined, focused, and passionate about becoming a skilled cybersecurity professional who uses technology to protect, uplift, and transform communities. With your support, I will continue this journey with excellence and purpose.

Kyle Lam Memorial Scholarship Essay — Malachi Batiste From a young age, I was the kind of kid who liked to take things apart just to figure out how they worked. Old radios, broken phones, or my grandmother’s Wi-Fi router — nothing in the house was safe from my curiosity. My family called it “tinkering,” but for me, it was the beginning of a love story with technology. I didn’t have access to the newest gadgets, but I had a drive to understand how things connected, communicated, and could be made better. One of my favorite moments came during my senior year of high school when I helped the computer lab recover after a system failure. The school’s network went down just days before state testing. Teachers were panicking, and the IT technician wouldn’t arrive until the following week. I volunteered to take a look, not because I thought I was a genius, but because I believed that learning happens by doing. After a few hours of troubleshooting, I found that a simple misconfiguration in the network settings had caused the crash. I fixed the issue, reconnected the systems, and the lab was back online. The teachers couldn’t believe a student had solved it. Their relief — and the laughter that followed — made all the late nights watching coding tutorials feel worth it. That experience changed how I saw technology. I realized that the real joy isn’t just in building something new — it’s in using your skills to serve others. Since then, I’ve created small programs to make everyday tasks easier for people around me. When my church’s livestream system kept freezing during Sunday service, I reconfigured the video setup and wrote a lightweight script to automate camera transitions. It turned out better than we expected, and soon, other churches in the community asked me to help them set up similar systems. Seeing their excitement reminded me why I love technology — it brings people together. Now, as a freshman majoring in Computer Science at Bowie State University, I’m continuing to explore that same hacker spirit that defined Kyle Lam’s life — curiosity, experimentation, and generosity. My focus in cybersecurity stems from the same desire to problem-solve creatively and protect systems that impact real people. Whether I’m learning a new coding language, joining a hackathon, or mentoring younger students in coding clubs, I carry the same mindset: “What can I build that will make someone’s life easier or inspire them to dream bigger?” I don’t consider myself the smartest in the room, but I strive to be the most curious. Each project teaches me that technology is not just about innovation — it’s about empathy. When people light up because something you’ve built makes their day better, that’s the best reward. Winning the Kyle Lam Memorial Scholarship would mean more than financial help — it would be an honor to carry forward the legacy of someone whose creativity and humility changed lives. Like Kyle, I want my work to reflect not just technical skill, but a heart for helping others and a belief that there’s always another way to solve a problem.

Anthony Belliamy Scholarship Essay — Malachi Batiste Life has a way of testing what we truly believe. For me, those tests came through financial hardship and the pain of losing loved ones who helped shape the man I am becoming. Yet through every moment of loss and uncertainty, my faith became the foundation that kept me grounded and gave me strength to keep going. I’ve learned that perseverance isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about trusting God through the process and using your challenges as fuel for purpose. Growing up, my family didn’t have much, but we had faith. My parents taught me the value of prayer, discipline, and education even when the bills were high and opportunities seemed low. There were moments when we had to choose between paying for basic needs or saving for school expenses. I remember working part-time while balancing high-school classes, determined not to let my circumstances define me. Losing family members during that same time — people who had been sources of wisdom and stability — made life even heavier. Each loss reminded me how fragile life is, but also how much strength God gives when you lean on Him. When I first arrived at Bowie State University to study Computer Science with a focus in Cybersecurity, I carried those lessons with me. College was both exciting and intimidating. I was the first in my immediate family to pursue this field, and at times the financial strain felt overwhelming. But instead of quitting, I prayed for guidance and reminded myself of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Those words became my daily motivation. During my first semester, there were days I questioned whether I belonged. I didn’t have the latest laptop or access to every resource my classmates had, but I had determination. I spent long nights in the computer lab, watching coding tutorials, and asking professors for extra help. Each time I overcame a challenge, I felt God building resilience and confidence within me. My struggles taught me how to adapt, how to lead, and how to believe in myself even when circumstances said otherwise. I’ve also learned the power of giving back. Volunteering in youth programs at my church and mentoring high-school students interested in technology has reminded me that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about service. I want other young people who come from hard places to see that your start doesn’t determine your finish. My dream is to become a cybersecurity analyst who protects people’s information and builds safer systems, but more than that, I want to be an example of integrity and faith in the technology world. Every hardship I’ve faced — from financial strain to family loss — has given me a deeper sense of empathy and purpose. They’ve shaped not only my career goals but also my character. I’ve learned that success is not measured only by how much you achieve but by how much you overcome. Faith has been my anchor, perseverance my weapon, and education my pathway forward. Receiving the Anthony Belliamy Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of continuing my education but would also honor the values I’ve worked hard to live by — faith, resilience, and ethical leadership. Like Mr. Belliamy, I believe in leading with integrity, lifting others, and facing life’s challenges with courage and optimism. I’m committed to carrying those same principles into my studies, my career, and every space God allows me to impact.

Begin Again: Finding Strength Through the Storm By Malachi Batiste My name is Malachi Batiste, and my journey with sepsis changed the way I see life, family, and purpose. What began as a terrifying health crisis became a testimony of faith, resilience, and the power to begin again. A few years ago, my family went through one of the hardest seasons of our lives when my [loved one—grandparent, parent, or close family member] battled sepsis. What started as a routine illness quickly turned into a life-threatening condition that left us in shock. I remember the frantic rush to the hospital, the long nights filled with uncertainty, and the tears we cried while praying for healing. I saw the machines, the tubes, and the constant beeping of monitors — but I also saw something greater: the power of faith to sustain us when nothing else could. Watching my loved one fight through sepsis taught me the true meaning of endurance. Even after the infection was under control, recovery was long and painful. It wasn’t just the physical healing — it was emotional and mental too. Seeing the struggle up close gave me a new level of compassion and a deeper appreciation for life. I realized that healing isn’t always instant; sometimes, it’s a process that shapes your character one day at a time. That experience strengthened my resolve to live with purpose. I decided that I wouldn’t let hardship define me — I would let it drive me. Sepsis affected my family deeply, but it also brought us closer. We learned to celebrate small victories, to be grateful for every new morning, and to never take health for granted. This experience also inspired my academic and career goals. I am currently studying Computer Science with a focus on Cybersecurity, and I’ve learned that protecting people doesn’t only happen in hospitals — it can happen in every space where people are vulnerable. Whether in medicine, technology, or community advocacy, the goal is the same: to keep people safe, to build trust, and to make a difference. My encounter with sepsis also opened my eyes to how many families face similar battles without understanding what sepsis is or how to recognize it early. I’ve made it a goal to raise awareness wherever I can — through conversations, school discussions, and even social media — to help others know the signs before it’s too late. I believe that every challenge in life holds a hidden gift. For me, sepsis taught me how to endure, how to lead, and how to use my story to bring hope to others. It reminded me that pain doesn’t have to paralyze you — it can push you toward your purpose. The Begin Again Scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It symbolizes hope and resilience — the same hope that carried my family through the darkest nights. It reminds me that even when life breaks you down, you can rise again, stronger than before. I want my story to encourage other students who are battling illness or supporting loved ones through it: your pain is not the end of your story. With faith, discipline, and determination, you can start again — and even turn tragedy into triumph. Sepsis may have shaken my world, but it also taught me how to stand. And because of that, I am determined to keep learning, keep serving, and keep beginning again — no matter what life brings.

Rising Through the Pain: My Journey with Sickle Cell If there’s one thing Sickle Cell Disease has taught me, it’s that pain may shape my days, but it doesn’t define my destiny. My name is [Name], and I have lived with Sickle Cell since birth. What began as a medical diagnosis quickly became a lifelong teacher — one that has challenged me, refined me, and taught me to live with purpose, faith, and endurance. Growing up, I spent more time in hospitals than on playgrounds. I learned to recognize the sterile scent of emergency rooms, the hum of IV pumps, and the quiet strength in my mother’s prayers at my bedside. There were nights when pain crises kept me awake until sunrise and mornings when I still showed up to school because I refused to let this disease win. Every blood transfusion, every doctor’s visit, and every setback pushed me to dig deeper — to find meaning beyond the pain. Managing Sickle Cell is more than managing symptoms; it’s managing mindset. I’ve learned to listen to my body without surrendering to it. Hydration, rest, and medication are part of my routine, but so are gratitude, prayer, and hope. Faith keeps me grounded. I hold tightly to Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” That verse reminds me that every limitation can become an opportunity when placed in God’s hands. Despite the obstacles, I’ve remained focused on education and service. I am currently pursuing a degree in [major, e.g., Biology or Computer Science], with the goal of [career goal, e.g., becoming a medical researcher or cybersecurity specialist]. I want my work to improve lives — especially for those who live with invisible illnesses like mine. Balancing school and health is difficult; sometimes a single pain episode can derail an entire week of classes. But I’ve learned resilience through routine: staying organized, communicating with professors, and turning hospital stays into study sessions. My GPA isn’t just a number — it’s evidence of perseverance. My inspiration comes from my family and the Sickle Cell community. My parents are my heroes. They’ve modeled sacrifice, strength, and unwavering love. I’ve also been mentored by others living with Sickle Cell who refuse to let the disease silence their voices. They’ve taught me that advocacy begins with authenticity — that sharing our stories breaks stigma and builds connection. I’ve volunteered with [specific organization or event if applicable] to raise awareness, organize blood drives, and encourage testing within the Black community. Every small act feels like lighting a candle in the dark. I am motivated by the legacy of Prince Justice Williams because his story mirrors the courage I strive to live out daily. Like him, I know what it means to chase dreams through pain and to keep showing up even when life feels unfair. His determination reminds me that purpose is greater than pain. Receiving this scholarship would ease financial stress while allowing me to continue advocating for others living with chronic illness. But beyond the funding, it would affirm that perseverance matters — that even in the midst of struggle, greatness can still rise. My journey with Sickle Cell may be difficult, but it’s also beautiful. It has given me strength, compassion, and a calling: to live fully, love deeply, and never stop fighting for the life God has given me.

Faith, Family, and the Fight to Finish Strong By Malachi Batiste If I could describe my life in three words, they would be faith, family, and fight. Those three things have shaped who I am — not just as a student-athlete, but as a young man learning to stand strong through adversity. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am a college student-athlete pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a focus on Cybersecurity. Growing up, sports were more than just games to me — they were lessons in discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Whether it was on the football field or basketball court, I learned how to push through pain, lead with humility, and trust my teammates the same way I trust my family. My family is my foundation. I was raised in a home where faith came first, respect mattered, and giving your best was nonnegotiable. My parents and grandparents taught me early that life isn’t always fair, but it’s always an opportunity to grow. We pray together, support one another through challenges, and believe that hard work honors God. We’ve endured loss, including my uncle, one of my greatest role models. His sudden passing taught me that manhood isn’t measured by how loud you talk, but by how faithfully you serve others. His life inspired me to live with purpose and gratitude — to play every game and face every challenge as if it could be my last. Being a student-athlete has taught me the value of balance. There are nights when I leave practice exhausted yet still hit the books, and mornings when I rise sore but determined to improve. Sports have shown me that consistency and discipline produce victory over time. I chose cybersecurity because I’ve always been fascinated by technology and problem-solving. Like sports, it requires focus and teamwork — except now the opponent isn’t another team, but digital threats that can harm people’s lives. I want to use my degree to protect others and make technology safer for families and communities. The lessons from sports reach far beyond the field. I’ve learned leadership, accountability, and how to face both victory and defeat with humility. I hope to mentor young athletes — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — reminding them that their dreams are valid and reachable through faith and discipline. The legacy of Stephan Laurence Wolley inspires me. His love for faith, family, and competition mirrors the principles that guide my life. This scholarship would help me continue my education while honoring those same values. I still have much to learn, but I’m grateful for every lesson — from the field to the classroom, from heartbreak to hope. With faith, family, and fight, I will keep pushing forward and make a difference wherever God leads me.

Finding Gratitude Through the Storm By Malachi Batiste When I was first diagnosed with a mast cell–related condition, I felt like my world flipped upside down. Simple things that most people take for granted — eating certain foods, going outside on humid days, or being around strong scents — suddenly became challenges I had to plan every day around. At first, I saw my condition as a barrier, a constant reminder of what I couldn’t do. But over time, I began to realize that it was also reshaping my life in ways that revealed strength, empathy, and relationships I might never have known without it. The thing I am most grateful for, because of this journey, is perspective. Mast cell disease has given me the ability to slow down and appreciate moments that most people rush past. When your body can suddenly react to something as small as a change in temperature or a bite of food, you start to understand just how fragile and miraculous everyday life really is. I used to move through days focused on what was next; now I live more intentionally, finding joy in the small victories — a day without pain, a good night’s sleep, or even a simple walk outside. That shift in mindset has made me stronger mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am also deeply grateful for the people this condition has brought into my life — the kind of people I might never have met otherwise. From doctors who refuse to give up on finding answers, to friends who show up with understanding instead of pity, these relationships have redefined what support looks like. I’ve met others living with rare conditions through online communities, and their courage has inspired me more than any motivational speech ever could. We share advice, laughter, and encouragement in moments when the world doesn’t seem to understand what we go through. That connection — that community — is something I will never take for granted. My family has also grown closer through this journey. Before my diagnosis, I didn’t always realize how deeply love can show up in small acts — like my mom researching recipes that won’t trigger symptoms or my siblings checking in after appointments. Illness can strain relationships, but in our case, it strengthened them. We learned to communicate more honestly and to celebrate progress, no matter how small. That has changed how I approach all relationships in my life: with patience, gratitude, and empathy. Perhaps the most unexpected gift has been discovering my purpose. Before dealing with mast cell disease, I didn’t think much about health advocacy. Now, I see how powerful it can be to speak up — to share experiences that might make someone else feel less alone. It’s why I’ve started exploring ways to use my computer science studies to build accessible digital tools for people managing chronic conditions. My dream is to design technology that connects patients to resources, support groups, and information more easily. In that way, my challenges have become motivation to help others. If you asked me years ago what I thought I’d gain from living with a condition like this, I would have said “nothing but frustration.” But now, I can honestly say I’ve gained everything that truly matters — empathy, gratitude, resilience, and purpose. I’ve learned that while mast cell disease may have changed my plans, it didn’t take away my potential. It simply helped me see life in a deeper, more grateful way.

By Malachi Batiste Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me working in technology. Most of the computer scientists, engineers, or cybersecurity professionals I saw on television or online didn’t come from my background. But instead of discouraging me, that reality inspired me. I wanted to be part of the next generation that changes what the face of technology looks like. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am an undergraduate Computer Science major with a focus in Cybersecurity. I chose this field because technology shapes every part of modern life, from communication and education to national security and healthcare. But as powerful as technology is, it’s also vulnerable. Every data breach, scam, and cyberattack reminds me that our digital world needs protectors — people who understand both the science and the responsibility behind keeping information safe. I want to be one of those protectors. My love for technology began when I was a child helping my family solve small computer issues at home. What started as curiosity quickly became passion. I began teaching myself basic coding and learning how networks operate. Over time, I realized cybersecurity wasn’t just about computers — it was about people. Protecting data means protecting individuals, families, and communities from harm. That realization gave my studies a greater purpose. As a young Black man pursuing a career in cybersecurity, I represent a small percentage of my field — only about 9% of the U.S. cybersecurity workforce identifies as Black or African American. Those numbers motivate me, not discourage me. They remind me that every classroom I sit in, every project I complete, and every certification I earn is one step toward closing that gap. I don’t just want to succeed for myself; I want to help others see that they can, too. In my community, I have already begun sharing what I’ve learned. I’ve volunteered to help younger students learn basic coding skills and understand online safety. Teaching them how to protect their digital identities and avoid scams has shown me how powerful knowledge can be. Many of these students come from neighborhoods where access to technology is limited, and seeing their excitement when they realize they can create something meaningful with code reminds me why representation matters. I plan to use my degree to make a tangible impact in both cybersecurity and community outreach. My long-term goal is to create programs that teach cybersecurity basics to high school and middle school students, particularly in underrepresented communities. By exposing them early to technology, I hope to break down barriers and make this field more accessible. I also want to mentor other BIPOC students entering STEM, providing the kind of support and encouragement that I once needed. Representation isn’t just about statistics — it’s about visibility and access. When young people see someone who shares their background succeeding in a field they thought was out of reach, it changes what they believe is possible. That’s the kind of inspiration I want to bring to others. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my studies and focus on building that vision — not only by supporting my education but by fueling my mission to diversify technology fields. I believe that innovation thrives when different voices, experiences, and cultures are part of the conversation. My dream is to help make cybersecurity a field where more students of color can see themselves, feel included, and know they belong. Because when we expand opportunity, we expand what’s possible — for our communities, our nation, and the next generation of thinkers and dreamers.

Eden Alaine Memorial Scholarship Essay When I think about loss, I think about my Uncle June. He wasn’t just a relative — he was one of my best friends and biggest supporters. He passed away in a trucking accident when I was younger, and that moment changed my life forever. Growing up, I spent nearly every day with him and my grandmother. We were more like a small family unit than relatives who saw each other on holidays. Losing him felt like losing part of my foundation. Uncle June was the kind of person who could make an ordinary day feel special. We would cut grass together, eat meals at the table with my grandmother, and take trips around town that turned into lessons about life. He didn’t have to use big words to teach me — his actions spoke louder than any advice could. He showed me what it meant to work hard, stay humble, and treat people with respect. Those lessons stayed with me long after his passing. When he died, I felt lost for a long time. It was hard to understand how someone who seemed so strong and full of life could suddenly be gone. There were moments when the sadness was overwhelming, and focusing on school or my goals felt impossible. But my grandmother reminded me that Uncle June wouldn’t want me to stop living. She told me that honoring him meant moving forward — not by forgetting, but by remembering him through my actions and accomplishments. That shift in perspective changed everything. Instead of letting grief hold me down, I began using it as motivation. I started focusing more on my studies and my goals, realizing that my success could be a way to carry his memory forward. I learned to see education as more than just a path to a career — it became a way to make meaning out of loss. Now, as I pursue my college education in Computer Science, I carry the lessons he taught me into everything I do. I want to use technology not only to build a future for myself but to create tools that can help others heal, connect, and stay safe. My uncle’s passing taught me that life is fragile, but purpose gives it strength. It taught me resilience — that even when life breaks your heart, you can rebuild with determination and faith. Losing him was one of the hardest experiences of my life, but it also shaped me into the person I am today. It gave me compassion for others who are grieving and the drive to keep going even when things are painful. It reminded me that time is precious and that love doesn’t end when someone passes — it continues through the choices we make every day. Every time I accomplish something new — whether it’s passing a tough class, helping someone in need, or simply staying focused — I feel like I’m honoring him. My uncle may be gone, but his legacy lives in me. And as I continue to grow, I know he’d be proud to see that the boy who once grieved beside his grandmother is now a young man walking forward with purpose, strength, and hope.

🧮 Why I Love Math Scholarship Essay — Learner Math Lover Scholarship From the moment I realized that numbers could tell a story, I fell in love with math. To most people, math is just about equations or formulas, but to me, it’s a language—a way of understanding how the world works. Math connects everything: from the way computers process information to the way planets orbit the sun. It turns patterns into purpose, and that’s why I love it. When I started studying computer science, I began to see how deeply math shapes the technology we use every day. Coding, algorithms, and data encryption all depend on mathematical logic. As a cybersecurity major, I see math as both a shield and a key—it protects sensitive information while also unlocking new ways to solve complex problems. Every time I write a line of code or analyze a system, I’m reminded that math is the foundation of innovation. Math also teaches me perseverance and problem-solving. Sometimes an equation doesn’t work out on the first try. But learning to keep testing, analyzing, and adjusting until the answer appears has shaped how I approach challenges in life. Math reminds me that every problem has a solution—you just have to find the right method. Beyond academics, I love how math builds bridges between people and cultures. It’s a universal language. No matter where you go, the number two will always be two. Math unites scientists, engineers, and dreamers around the globe who share the same passion for discovery and progress. Ultimately, I love math because it teaches me how to think, not just what to think. It gives me clarity, structure, and creativity all at once. Whether I’m solving a cybersecurity challenge or balancing a personal budget, math is the constant that guides me toward smarter decisions and stronger solutions. Math doesn’t just describe the world—it defines it. And I’m proud to be one of its lifelong learners.

When I walk across my college campus, I carry more than a backpack full of textbooks—I carry generations of prayers, sacrifice, and quiet strength. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am a first-generation African American college student pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a focus on Cybersecurity at Bowie State University, one of the nation’s proud Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). My path has never been simple or straight, but every turn has shaped my sense of identity and purpose. Growing up in Louisiana, I learned early that being a young Black man meant walking a tightrope between hope and hardship. I watched my father, Pastor Cory Batiste, model integrity, faith, and perseverance while balancing ministry and teaching. He taught me that greatness is not inherited—it’s earned through discipline, courage, and service. Still, I also saw the other side of the story: talented young Black men who never got the chance to reach their potential because opportunity was locked behind doors their zip codes could not open. That reality shaped my mission—not just to succeed for myself, but to use technology as a tool for protection, empowerment, and change in my community. Being a racial minority in higher education comes with invisible weights. In some classes, I’m one of only a few Black students. Sometimes, silence fills the space where understanding should be. Yet I remind myself that presence is power. Every time I raise my hand in a computer science lecture, every time I debug a line of code until midnight, I am breaking cycles and building bridges. I am proof that representation matters. The barriers I face are not just academic—they are financial and emotional. College expenses stretch beyond tuition to include textbooks, lab software, and transportation. My family has sacrificed so much to help me stay focused, but there are moments when the weight feels heavy. Still, I refuse to let that weight crush me; I let it strengthen my resolve. When I earn this degree, I won’t just be another graduate—I will be a doorway for the next student who looks like me and wonders if it’s possible. My identity as a young Black man in technology has already begun to shape my impact. I volunteer with high school students, teaching them basic coding and cybersecurity awareness. When I see their faces light up after writing their first line of code, I realize I’m doing more than teaching technology—I’m helping rewrite stories that the world too often predetermines for us. In the future, I plan to combine my technical training with community leadership to create programs that make cybersecurity education accessible to underrepresented youth. I want to build safe digital spaces and empower young people to protect their voices in a world that too often tries to silence them. I am proud of who I am and where I come from. My path may not look like everyone else’s, but that’s exactly why it matters. Every challenge I’ve faced has become part of the blueprint for the person I’m becoming—a leader, an innovator, and an example of what it means to rise with purpose. I am not just pursuing a degree. I am pursuing a legacy.

Pursuing a STEM degree at an HBCU has been one of the most defining experiences of my life—not because it has been easy, but because it has demanded resilience, focus, and faith in moments when quitting seemed simpler. The greatest obstacle I have faced in higher education is not only financial hardship but the weight of self-doubt that often accompanies being underrepresented in a field where few faces look like mine. Yet through every challenge, mentors and professors have reminded me that I belong here—that my presence in STEM is both a responsibility and a victory. When I first entered college, I was filled with enthusiasm for studying Computer Science, but that excitement soon collided with the realities of rigorous coursework, financial strain, and personal responsibilities. I came from a background where access to advanced technology was limited. Many of my peers had early exposure to robotics camps or coding competitions. I, on the other hand, learned through borrowed textbooks and late nights watching tutorials on an aging laptop. Every failed experiment or difficult exam seemed to whisper otherwise. The turning point came during my sophomore year when I failed a major physics exam despite countless hours of study. I felt humiliated and began to question whether I truly belonged in STEM. It was then that one of my professors, Dr. Ohenee, stepped in. He noticed my frustration and invited me to his office. During our conversation, he shared his story of being the only Black engineer in his graduate cohort—of facing rejection and choosing perseverance over perfection. He told me something I will never forget: “You are not here by accident. You are here to open doors that others will one day walk through.” That conversation reignited something in me. With his guidance, I learned to approach failure as data, not defeat. I began attending tutoring sessions, joining study groups, and mentoring younger students who were struggling just as I had. Dr. Ohenee also helped me secure a research assistantship in the computer science department, where I worked on a project analyzing how machine learning algorithms could improve data security in small business networks. Our team built and tested a predictive model that identified unusual login patterns to detect cyber threats in real time. This project deepened my understanding of artificial intelligence, coding efficiency, and ethical responsibility in technology. That opportunity strengthened my technical skills and reaffirmed my purpose—to use science as a tool for innovation, equity, and change. Beyond academics, I have faced financial obstacles that nearly halted my education. There were semesters when I wasn’t sure I could afford tuition or lab materials. However, the support from mentors, financial aid advisors, and family members helped me stay the course. Their belief in me became the bridge between who I was and who I am becoming. Through these experiences, I have learned that STEM is not just about solving equations or building models—it’s about building resilience. The process of scientific discovery mirrors personal growth: hypothesis, trial, error, and breakthrough. Each challenge has taught me that perseverance is as valuable as problem-solving. As I continue my studies at Bowie State University, I am driven not only by career goals but by a sense of mission. I want to mentor younger students of color entering STEM fields and show them that representation matters—that their voices and innovations are needed. The William A. Lewis Scholarship would allow me to continue this journey and honor those who helped me by becoming that same source of light for someone else.

Scholarship Essay Dreams are not achieved in a single moment—they are built through endurance, prayer, and the courage to keep going when everything around you says stop. My journey toward higher education has been one marked by both struggle and strength. Each obstacle I’ve faced—financial hardship, family instability, and moments of self-doubt—has become the very foundation on which my determination stands. Growing up, I learned early that life was not going to hand me easy opportunities. As a minority student and single parent, I often found myself torn between providing stability for my family and pursuing the education that could transform our future. There were semesters when tuition seemed impossible to pay and nights when I studied by the dim light after putting my child to bed. Still, every challenge reminded me why I started—to build a legacy of hope and opportunity that would extend beyond my own home and into my community. Education became my anchor. In every classroom, I saw more than just lessons or grades—I saw tools for change. I chose to major in Business Administration because I believe that leadership rooted in empathy and vision can transform communities from the inside out. I’ve learned that business, when guided by integrity, is not just about profit—it’s about people. My ultimate goal is to launch a community development program that provides job training, financial literacy workshops, and mentorship for young adults who, like me, have faced instability but refuse to give up. The obstacles I’ve faced have refined my purpose rather than defined my limits. When I was younger, I often questioned why life seemed harder for me than for others. Now I see that those hardships prepared me to lead with compassion. They taught me patience, resourcefulness, and faith. I’ve discovered that real success is not measured by what we accumulate, but by what we can give back. I want to use my education to pour into others—especially single parents and minority youth who feel unseen or unheard. Through community outreach, business leadership, and mentorship, I will create spaces where others can dream freely and find tangible support to make those dreams real. The Rev. and Mrs. E. B. Dunbar Scholarship would not just help me continue my education; it would empower me to keep building bridges of opportunity. I want to show my child—and every young person watching—that obstacles are not dead ends but detours leading toward greater purpose. I believe that when we face our challenges with faith and courage, we don’t just achieve our own dreams—we inspire others to believe that theirs are possible, too. That is how I plan to give back: by turning every struggle I’ve endured into strength that serves my community, honors those who helped me along the way, and uplifts those still finding their way forward.

Selected Paragraph (for Analysis) “For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.” — Ecclesiastes 1:18 (KJV) Scholarship Essay At first glance, the words of Ecclesiastes 1:18 appear discouraging, almost paradoxical: “For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.” Why would wisdom — that timeless pursuit celebrated across cultures — lead not to joy, but to grief? Yet, in this single verse, the writer known as Qoheleth (the Teacher) offers one of the most profound insights into the human condition: that understanding reality in its fullness means confronting its pain. My close reading of this passage reveals that Ecclesiastes does not condemn wisdom; rather, it portrays it as an act of courageous clarity — a willingness to see the world truthfully, to bear its burdens responsibly, and to live with purpose in spite of sorrow. This insight has shaped how I view learning, leadership, and the very purpose of education. The Book of Ecclesiastes belongs to the wisdom literature of the Hebrew Bible, a collection of writings that seeks meaning in life’s complexities rather than in its certainties. The Teacher speaks as one who has seen the futility of worldly pursuits — wealth, pleasure, status — and concludes that all is “vanity,” a fleeting breath. Yet within this apparent despair lies deep realism. The verse I have chosen is not a rejection of knowledge, but an admission that true understanding comes with emotional cost. To “increase knowledge” is to awaken from naïveté, to see injustice, suffering, and human limitation with open eyes. It is easier to live in ignorance than to carry the weight of awareness — but the Teacher insists that such awareness is the only path to genuine wisdom. In the phrase “he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow,” the Hebrew word for sorrow (mak’ōb) implies pain, affliction, or deep distress. This is not the pain of failure, but the ache of insight — the grief of seeing what others refuse to see. In my own life, I have experienced this tension in both academic and personal ways. As a student, I have learned that education is not merely about accumulating information but about confronting truth — about history’s injustices, society’s inequities, and even our own internal contradictions. To be a student is to wrestle with complexity. The more I learn about the world, the more I feel the responsibility to act within it — and that awareness, though heavy, becomes the very soil in which compassion and purpose take root. This verse also reflects a principle that transcends religion and enters philosophy: the moral burden of knowledge. In Greek thought, Socrates declared that “the unexamined life is not worth living,” yet his pursuit of truth ultimately led to his death. Likewise, in modern contexts, thinkers from Nietzsche to Martin Luther King Jr. understood that awareness brings both enlightenment and anguish. To see clearly is to feel deeply. And yet, such clarity is the birthplace of change. Without it, ignorance breeds complacency. Ecclesiastes therefore stands not as a lament, but as a challenge — a call to bear the sorrow of wisdom with integrity, to see pain and still choose to build, teach, and heal. For me, this truth resonates deeply with my educational and professional aspirations. I have chosen to major in Business Administration because I believe that leadership is not simply about efficiency or profit; it is about seeing reality fully — including the problems others overlook — and responding with innovation and empathy. In studying business ethics, economics, and organizational leadership, I have encountered the same principle Ecclesiastes teaches: that knowledge without conscience creates exploitation, but knowledge guided by compassion can transform society. I want to use what I learn to create spaces of opportunity for others, particularly young people who come from unstable or disadvantaged backgrounds, as I once did. My experiences in the foster care system exposed me to hardship early in life, but they also trained me to observe, adapt, and empathize — all traits rooted in wisdom’s painful but powerful gift of perspective. The Teacher’s words remind me that wisdom is not meant to isolate us in sorrow but to awaken us to shared humanity. The grief that accompanies knowledge should not lead to despair; it should lead to purpose. Each time I study social inequities or business ethics, I am reminded of this verse — that awareness of suffering compels moral responsibility. The more I understand the systemic barriers others face, the more I feel called to help dismantle them. In this way, wisdom’s grief becomes the seed of impact. To increase knowledge is to increase our capacity for compassion — and through compassion, transformation. There is also a spiritual dimension to this verse that continues to shape my worldview. The Teacher acknowledges that wisdom, though valuable, cannot erase life’s uncertainty. This humility before mystery teaches a crucial balance between intellect and faith. I have learned that not every question has an answer, not every plan unfolds as expected, and not every truth brings comfort. Yet, within that acceptance lies peace. True wisdom, as Ecclesiastes implies, is not about control but surrender — understanding that one’s duty is to seek truth, act with integrity, and trust God with what remains unseen. This balance keeps learning from becoming arrogance and sorrow from becoming despair. Close reading allows us to extract this layered meaning — linguistic, emotional, ethical, and spiritual — from a single sentence. The verse’s structure itself underscores its paradox: “much wisdom… much grief,” “increaseth knowledge… increaseth sorrow.” The repetition and parallelism create a rhythm of inevitability, suggesting that wisdom and pain are inseparable twins. Yet, by embracing this duality, we learn what it means to live meaningfully. Wisdom without grief is shallow; grief without wisdom is hopeless. Together, they forge maturity — the ability to confront reality without losing faith in its redemption. In essence, Ecclesiastes 1:18 is not a warning against learning but an invitation to deeper living. It challenges us to accept that the pursuit of truth will sometimes wound us — but that those wounds are sacred, proof that we have truly seen and truly cared. For me, this realization defines what education means: not the avoidance of difficulty, but the pursuit of understanding that refines both intellect and character. As I continue my college journey, this verse reminds me that the measure of wisdom is not how comfortable it makes us, but how courageously it calls us to serve. Every lecture, every challenge, every difficult truth I confront brings me closer to the kind of wisdom Ecclesiastes speaks of — one that grieves, yet still builds; that sorrows, yet still hopes. And in that paradox lies the deepest form of learning: the wisdom that heals even as it hurts.

Scholarship Essay Word Count: ~550 My name is [Your Name], and I have chosen to major in Business Administration because I believe that leadership built on empathy, discipline, and innovation can change lives. For me, business is not just about profit—it’s about purpose. It is the art of turning vision into action and using strategy to uplift people and communities. My journey through the foster care system shaped this belief and taught me that the greatest form of success is not wealth, but impact. Growing up in foster care meant learning to adapt quickly and think resourcefully. I moved through different homes and schools, each with its own rhythm and set of challenges. Though those years were filled with uncertainty, they taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, communication, and leadership. I learned to listen, to observe, and to find strength in instability. In many ways, foster care became the foundation for my future—it gave me the ability to persevere, to manage change, and to empathize deeply with others facing adversity. It was during high school that my passion for business truly emerged. I took an introductory business course and was immediately drawn to how innovation could solve real problems. Creating my first business plan opened my eyes to the power of strategy and creativity working together. I realized that business could be a tool not only for financial success, but for restoring dignity, providing opportunity, and strengthening communities. My academic interests now center around entrepreneurship and organizational leadership. I want to develop the skills to build sustainable ventures that address social and economic challenges. My long-term goal is to establish a business incubator and mentorship program for youth who are transitioning out of foster care. I know firsthand how difficult that transition can be—many young adults age out of the system without guidance, financial support, or stability. Through my program, I hope to provide career training, financial literacy workshops, and mentorship to help them develop the confidence and skills to build successful, independent lives. After earning my degree, I plan to pursue an MBA to expand my understanding of business management and entrepreneurship. I envision creating partnerships between businesses and local organizations to provide pathways for employment, education, and personal growth. My dream is to create enterprises that not only thrive economically but also cultivate compassion, equity, and empowerment. The foster care system could have left me broken or bitter—but instead, it gave me purpose. It taught me how to turn pain into perseverance and how to view every obstacle as an opportunity for growth. I’ve learned that effective leadership begins with humility and service. I want to be the kind of leader who listens first, builds others up, and uses business as a means to heal and empower. This scholarship represents more than financial support—it represents belief: belief in my ability to transform adversity into achievement, and belief that with education and faith, I can create lasting change for others who have walked the same path I once did.

eading with Purpose and Faith Leadership, to me, isn’t about being in charge—it’s about being responsible for those around you. Growing up in a family shaped by service and faith, I learned early that leadership means showing up with integrity, communicating clearly, and serving others before yourself. Those lessons have guided how I live, study, and serve my community every day. One of the first ways I learned to lead was through JROTC in high school. I started out quietly, following others’ commands, but as time went on, my instructors saw something in me that I didn’t yet see in myself. They gave me responsibilities—calling drills, mentoring younger cadets, and organizing community events. I discovered that leadership isn’t about shouting the loudest; it’s about earning respect through your actions. I learned to communicate by listening first, giving clear direction second, and leading by example always. Those moments taught me how powerful calm, confident communication can be in keeping a team unified under pressure. Resilience has also defined my journey. My path to college hasn’t been easy. Like many students, I’ve faced financial setbacks and personal challenges that tested my resolve. During my senior year, my family faced tough times that made me question whether college was even possible. Instead of giving up, I prayed, worked extra hours, and applied for every scholarship I could find. That season taught me that faith and perseverance go hand in hand. True resilience isn’t about never struggling—it’s about pushing through struggle with purpose. Being selfless is something I learned by watching my father and mentors in the church. They taught me that leadership without service is just ego. I try to live that out by volunteering at local community drives and mentoring younger students who feel lost or unmotivated. Whether it’s tutoring a classmate, helping organize youth events, or listening when someone needs to talk, I’ve found that giving my time freely not only helps others but also strengthens my own sense of purpose. Focus and determination have helped me stay grounded in both my education and faith. As a Computer Science major, my coursework can be demanding, but I’ve learned to approach every challenge with discipline. I set daily goals, manage my time carefully, and remind myself why I started—to build a career that combines technology and service. My dream is to work in cybersecurity, protecting communities and organizations from digital threats, because safety and service don’t just exist on battlefields or in streets—they also exist online. My work ethic comes from watching the people I admire most—teachers, soldiers, pastors, and parents—wake up early, stay late, and keep going even when no one notices. I believe excellence is a habit, not an event. That belief drives me to give my best in school, in JROTC, and in my community. Whether it’s staying late to finish a project, helping a teammate prepare for inspection, or pushing through fatigue to meet a goal, I’ve learned that hard work builds character—and character builds trust. Leadership, to me, means serving others with humility and courage. It means using your voice to inspire hope and your actions to bring change. I strive to lead in a way that reflects my faith: steady, compassionate, and committed to something greater than myself. Like Antonie “Tony” Bernard Thomas, I want to be remembered as someone who led with heart—someone who listened, served, and inspired others to believe they too can make a difference. Every day, I’m learning that leadership isn’t about titles or power; it’s about purpose—and I intend to walk in that purpose wherever my journey takes me.

Serving with Purpose and Pride My first exposure to military life came through my grandfather. He wasn’t a man of many words, but when he talked about his time in the Army, I could hear both pride and pain in his voice. He spoke of early mornings, tough drills, and the brotherhood that came from serving beside men who had each other’s backs. But he also shared how being a Black soldier meant fighting for a country that didn’t always fight for you in return. Those conversations opened my eyes to the honor and hardship that come with wearing the uniform. Learning about men like Ronald Chatters—who served in the all-Black 503rd Artillery Battalion—deepened that awareness. It’s one thing to read about history, but it’s another to realize that the freedoms I enjoy were built on the sacrifice of people who were often overlooked. The minority experience in the military is a story of resilience and quiet strength. They carried not just weapons, but also the weight of representing their race with dignity. That legacy is one I feel called to continue. When I joined JROTC as a freshman, I didn’t yet understand what leadership meant. I was shy, unsure of myself, and nervous about giving directions. Through drills, community service, and mentorship, I learned that leadership isn’t about being the loudest—it’s about being consistent, respectful, and dependable. My instructors taught me that the smallest details matter: a clean uniform, a sharp salute, and a steady attitude under pressure. Those lessons changed how I approached school and life. One of my proudest moments was helping organize a Veterans Day ceremony at my school. Working with other cadets to honor those who served—and speaking about the contributions of Black soldiers—reminded me that service transcends race. Seeing veterans of all backgrounds salute together showed me the power of unity and purpose. That day, I understood that leadership means creating moments that lift others up. JROTC also taught me that military service is not just about strength; it’s about self-discipline and humility. It’s about showing up when no one is watching. The program strengthened my faith too. I’ve learned to trust God’s timing and to pray before I make big decisions. My instructors often remind us, “A good soldier isn’t just trained in body—they’re grounded in character.” That truth stays with me. After graduation, my goal is to enlist in the U.S. military while earning a degree in cybersecurity. I want to combine my interest in technology with my desire to protect and serve. In today’s world, defending our country also means protecting its digital frontlines. My dream is to serve in a way that honors both my family’s history and my faith—to defend freedom while upholding courage, loyalty, and integrity. Participating in JROTC has given me direction, confidence, and purpose. It’s connected me to a lineage of men like Ronald Chatters—heroes who fought not just for their nation but for recognition and equality. When I put on my uniform, I think about their sacrifices and the path they cleared for soldiers like me. Their courage reminds me that service is more than duty—it’s a calling. That’s why I stand proud, driven by faith, and committed to making an impact that reaches beyond myself. I hope to carry their legacy forward—with purpose, with pride, and with the determination to serve my country as honorably as they did.

Essay: Faith in the Fire There was a moment in my life when faith wasn’t just something I heard preached about—it became the only thing I had to hold on to. During my senior year of high school, my family went through one of the hardest seasons we’ve ever faced. My father lost his job, bills began to stack up, and the future I had worked so hard for seemed to be slipping away. I was accepted into college, but without financial security, I didn’t know if I would be able to attend. Every time I looked at my younger siblings, I felt the pressure to be strong, even though inside I was scared and unsure of what to do. At first, I tried to fix everything myself. I filled out scholarship after scholarship, picked up side jobs, and even considered postponing college. But despite all my efforts, the situation didn’t change overnight. One night, overwhelmed, I sat alone and prayed—really prayed—for the first time in a long while. I asked God for peace and direction. I remember reading Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing… and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, shall guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” At that moment, something shifted inside me. My situation hadn’t changed, but my faith did. I stopped focusing on what I couldn’t control and started trusting God with what I couldn’t fix. I began to see small signs of His provision—friends who shared opportunities, a teacher who helped me revise my scholarship essays, and members of my church who encouraged me to stay faithful. My youth pastor reminded me, “Faith isn’t about avoiding the fire; it’s about trusting God to be with you in it.” Those words carried me through every anxious night. Through that season, my faith became active. I led prayers at church for students struggling financially, and I started volunteering at food drives, realizing that even in need, I could still serve others. When I finally received enough scholarships and grants to attend college, I didn’t see it as luck—I saw it as God’s faithfulness meeting me halfway. My part was to believe, to work, and to not give up. His part was to make a way. That experience taught me more than any sermon ever could. Faith isn’t passive; it’s what fuels persistence when everything else runs out. It taught me humility—to depend on God when I can’t depend on circumstances. It also taught me empathy—to look beyond my own struggle and help others facing their own. Now, as a college student majoring in Computer Science, I hold onto that same faith every time I face a new challenge. When classes get tough or finances feel uncertain, I remind myself of the God who came through before. My goal isn’t just to earn a degree—it’s to use my education and my story to encourage other young people to trust God even when life doesn’t make sense. Faith turned my fear into focus, my worry into work, and my pain into purpose. It’s what helped me move from uncertainty to opportunity. Like Nabi Nicole, I want my life to reflect a faith that not only overcomes but uplifts others. If I’ve learned anything through this journey, it’s that God doesn’t just deliver you from challenges—He delivers you through them, and in doing so, He builds something stronger inside you than the obstacle ever was.

Essay: The Day I Learned What Strength Really Means The person who has had the biggest impact on my life is my grandmother. She taught me what faith looks like when life doesn’t go as planned. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, our family’s world changed. But even through pain and uncertainty, she never stopped smiling, never stopped praying, and never stopped believing that God was still good. I remember sitting beside her one night after church in Louisiana. She looked at me and said, “Malachi, strength isn’t how loud you shout or how hard you fight—it’s how much faith you keep when you feel weak.” Those words stayed with me. Even as her body grew tired, her spirit stayed strong. She prayed for others when she could barely move herself. Watching her made me realize that true strength comes from faith, not fear. When she passed, I felt lost. I was just starting high school and couldn’t understand why God would take someone so loving and full of life. But over time, I realized she hadn’t really left me—she left lessons that still guide me today. Her strength inspired me to grow in my own faith, to serve others, and to live with purpose. That experience changed how I see life. It made me more compassionate and focused. I started getting involved in community projects through my church and school—helping with youth events, organizing food drives, and even helping plan family gatherings. Every time I see people come together and smile, I feel like I’m honoring her. She loved bringing people together, and now I find joy in doing the same. Losing her also gave me a deeper appreciation for time and people. I learned to check on loved ones more often, to say “thank you” and “I love you” without waiting for a special occasion. It taught me that life isn’t about how long you live but about how much love you share while you’re here. Now, as a college student majoring in Computer Science, I’m using those lessons in a different way. My grandmother believed in helping people and solving problems, and I see technology as a tool to do just that. I want to build programs that help others learn, connect, and grow—especially in communities where resources are limited. Her faith taught me perseverance. Her courage taught me compassion. And her love taught me that even when life changes, God’s presence doesn’t. When I face challenges now—whether it’s exams, finances, or life decisions—I think back to that moment beside her. I remember her words, her faith, and her peace. My grandmother’s life taught me that faith doesn’t make things easy; it makes them possible. That truth continues to shape who I am, and it’s the reason I strive to make a difference in every space I enter.

My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am a first-year freshman at Bowie State University, majoring in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity. Growing up in Louisiana and now studying in Maryland, I have learned to embrace new challenges, stay grounded in my faith, and use every opportunity to grow. Sports, community service, and my Christian upbringing have shaped me into someone who, like Kalia D. Davis, believes in excellence, resilience, and making an impact. Throughout high school, I was a dedicated athlete, balancing academics and athletics. I ran track and participated in team sports, which taught me discipline, consistency, and perseverance. Sports were never just about competition; they were about building character, setting goals, and supporting my teammates. That same work ethic now drives me in the classroom and in my pursuit of a career in cybersecurity. Beyond academics and athletics, I have been committed to serving others. I have volunteered through my church, Beech Grove Baptist, in various youth programs, tutoring, and community outreach initiatives. Giving back has taught me humility and reminded me that leadership is about service. Whether helping children with homework or assisting at community events, I strive to encourage others and bring hope. The values of this scholarship resonate with me because I believe that kindness and ambition should go hand in hand. My Christian faith is at the center of my life. It grounds me when life feels uncertain and pushes me to do my best even when no one is watching. My family has always reminded me that integrity and character outlast achievements. Reading about Kalia’s life reminded me of the importance of living with joy, courage, and a heart for others. I want to honor her memory by continuing to live with that same drive and impact. Cybersecurity is more than a major for me—it is a calling. Technology shapes the future, and protecting people, organizations, and even nations from cyber threats is a way I can serve others. I aspire to work in government or corporate cybersecurity to help secure communities and build safer systems. This scholarship would enable me to focus on my studies, alleviate financial burdens, and continue serving others while excelling academically. The Living, Loving, Laughing, Learning Legacy Scholarship is more than financial aid; it is an opportunity to carry forward the values Kalia embodied. Like her, I want to be remembered as someone who pursued excellence, encouraged others, and left a legacy of love and service. With your support, I will continue to live out these values at Bowie State and beyond.

The sound of my mother’s voice, nervous but determined, still echoes in my mind as she held my hand on our first day in America. Everything felt unfamiliar—the streets, the language, even the way classrooms worked. When my family first arrived in the United States, I quickly learned that stepping into a new world meant carrying both hope and uncertainty. I remember sitting in my first classroom, not fully understanding the language or the expectations, but knowing deep down that education would be the key to building a better life. That memory of sitting quietly at a desk, both nervous and determined, still drives me as I continue my journey through higher education. It reminds me that my pursuit of knowledge is not only for myself but also for my family and community who sacrificed so much for me to have this opportunity. Being a first-generation immigrant has shaped me in ways that go beyond academics. At home, I often acted as a translator and problem-solver for my family, whether it was filling out forms, explaining school assignments, or helping with financial documents. These responsibilities were heavy for someone my age, but they taught me resilience, independence, and leadership. They showed me how important it is to adapt quickly, to listen carefully, and to take initiative when others are depending on you. Most importantly, they revealed that education is not just a personal achievement—it is a bridge that connects families to opportunities they never imagined. Still, being an outsider to the system has not been easy. I have felt the pressure of navigating college applications, financial aid, and academic expectations without a roadmap. While many of my peers could lean on parents with experience, I had to figure out each step largely on my own. There were nights when I stayed awake trying to understand scholarship requirements or deciphering government forms, moments when the weight of being “the first” felt overwhelming. Yet, I have learned that obstacles can either break you or build you. I chose to let them build me. Each challenge became fuel, strengthening my determination to prove that I belonged and that my background was not a weakness but a source of power. Looking forward, I hope to use my education not only to build a stable career for myself but also to empower others facing similar barriers. I plan to enter the fields of cybersecurity and finance, areas where protection and opportunity intersect. Cybersecurity will allow me to defend businesses and communities from digital threats, while finance will give me the tools to help families like mine build stability and wealth. My dream is to return to immigrant communities and provide guidance, mentorship, and resources so that others will not have to struggle alone the way I did. My experience as a first-generation immigrant has given me a clear vision: to create opportunities where others may feel limited, and to prove that hope and hard work can overcome any obstacle. Higher education is not simply a goal—it is a responsibility. By investing in me, you are not only helping me achieve my dreams but also planting seeds of change that will grow in the lives of countless others.

As a young man, I have dreamed of building a career that not only provides for my family but also protects and uplifts my community. Losing my uncle in a tragic accident reminded me how short life can be, and it pushed me to chase my dreams with determination. That experience shaped my decision to pursue a degree in cybersecurity and finance at Bowie State University. My goal is to work in cybersecurity, defending people, businesses, and communities from digital threats. In today’s world, technology is everywhere, and I want to make sure it is safe for everyone—especially families and small businesses that don’t always have the resources to protect themselves. At the same time, with my background in finance, I hope to teach others about building stability and wealth, because I know how financial strength can change the direction of a family and a community. To me, being Black means carrying both the challenges and the triumphs of those who came before me. It means standing tall with pride, knowing that I represent resilience, creativity, and excellence. Choosing to attend an HBCU was an easy decision for me. At Bowie State, I am surrounded by professors and peers who look like me, inspire me, and push me to be my best. It is a place where my culture is valued and my future is being prepared. As a young Black man, I believe my purpose is clear: to honor my past, serve my present, and build a stronger future.

In a small town like Reserve, Louisiana, opportunities often feel limited, especially when you grow up in a single-parent household with financial challenges. But despite those limitations, my life has been filled with powerful influences and defining moments—none more impactful than the steady presence of my late uncle, Albert Batiste Jr., affectionately known as Aljune. He was more than an uncle—he was my mentor, motivator, emotional support, and the man who believed I could be great long before I thought it myself. Uncle Aljune was a vibrant soul, a gifted saxophonist, and a proud member of Southern University’s marching band. He filled every room with stories, music, and wisdom. He helped my father raise me, provided guidance through tough times, and taught me lessons about life, manhood, and resilience. Eight years ago, he died in a tragic trucking accident while working. His death shook me deeply, but it also shifted something in me. I knew I had to honor his life by building mine with excellence and determination. That loss became the catalyst for my focus and passion. I discovered my passion in cybersecurity—a field that combines problem-solving, protection, and purpose. As the digital world expands, so do threats to personal and community safety. I want to be part of the solution by designing and protecting secure systems, especially for communities like mine that are often overlooked or underrepresented in the tech industry. My interest in STEM has always been rooted in curiosity. I remember taking apart computers to figure out how they worked, watching YouTube videos on how data travels, and wondering who was responsible for keeping all that information safe. But what keeps me committed now is more than curiosity—it’s responsibility. I want to ensure that Black communities have advocates in digital spaces, people who understand their needs and protect their data with integrity and skill. Throughout high school, I’ve demonstrated leadership and service by mentoring younger students, helping classmates with tech assignments, and volunteering at youth STEM events. I believe representation matters, and I take every opportunity to encourage others—especially other young Black students—that they belong in STEM. My work is driven by the belief that we rise by lifting others. This fall, I will begin my studies in cybersecurity at Bowie State University, a historically Black institution that aligns with my values and vision. The program will equip me with technical expertise while surrounding me with a community of mentors and peers who share my background and drive. It will also give me the foundation I need to pursue certifications and leadership roles in the field eventually. Receiving this scholarship would be more than financial relief—it would be fuel. Fuel to keep going. Fuel to stay focused. Fuel to become the leader my younger self needed. It would give me the freedom to study without the constant weight of financial pressure, allowing me to devote time to community service and professional development. I plan to use my education to serve, teach, and protect. I want to be the kind of presence in the world that my uncle was to me—someone who inspires, empowers, and never stops showing up. His life reminds me that even in loss, the legacy lives on. And through this journey, I’m building mine.

Coding a Safer Future: My Journey into Cybersecurity The first time I realized the power of computers was when I tried to reset our home Wi-Fi router. I was just 13 years old, frustrated because my sister was streaming videos that slowed down the network. That simple act of navigating through router settings sparked something in me. I didn’t just want to fix the Wi-Fi—I tried to understand how the whole system worked. I began researching everything I could about networks, security, and how data moves invisibly across the world. That spark has now evolved into a passion for computer science and, more specifically, cybersecurity. As a senior in high school with a 3.7 GPA and a passion for protecting and serving through technology, I plan to major in Computer Science at Bowie State University, with a focus on cybersecurity. What inspires me most about computer science is how it combines logic, creativity, and the potential for significant impact. It’s a field that never stops evolving—and neither do I. Every problem I solve, and every new concept I learn adds a new layer to who I’m becoming. I want to use those skills to protect the digital lives of people who may not even realize they’re at risk. My inspiration to pursue a career in cybersecurity stems from a deeper purpose: a commitment to justice. In my community, I’ve seen how vulnerable families and small businesses are to scams, fraud, and online breaches. Most of the time, they don’t have access to high-tech protections or even basic training to spot digital threats. I want to change that. Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and encryption—it’s about giving people peace of mind. It’s about defending those who can’t afford expensive software or consultants. It’s about building trust in a digital world. The specific area I am interested in working in is ethical hacking and penetration testing. I want to become a white-hat hacker—someone who uses their skills to expose and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. In doing so, I can help secure everything from personal identities to government systems. This role excites me because it demands critical thinking, quick adaptation, and a strong moral compass—qualities I strive to develop every day. In addition to my academic goals, I’ve taken steps to strengthen my foundation. I’ve completed online coding boot camps, built small Python-based security tools for practice, and even volunteered at my church to help set up basic IT safety protocols. I also mentor younger students, helping them understand how exciting and meaningful computer science can be. Like Arthur Walasek, I believe in sharing knowledge. One day, I hope to create a nonprofit organization that teaches coding and cybersecurity to students in underserved communities. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue my journey without the financial stress that often hinders students like me from reaching their full potential. But more than that, it would be an honor to carry forward Arthur Walasek’s legacy of curiosity, creativity, and compassion. He wasn’t just a programmer—he was a teacher, a dreamer, and a builder of things that brought joy and safety to others. That’s precisely the kind of computer scientist I want to become. I don’t just want to work in technology—I want to be a force for good within it. I want to build systems that protect, educate, and empower. And I believe that with continued learning, perseverance, and support like this scholarship, I will.

Purpose Over Popularity: Building a Safer and More Just Digital Future The first time I realized how unprotected our communities are in the digital world was when my father’s email was hacked and sensitive family information was leaked. We weren’t high-profile targets—just a working-class Black family trying to stay afloat. That moment opened my eyes to how easily vulnerable people can become victims. From that point forward, I knew I wanted to use technology to protect those who are often overlooked and under-resourced. As an incoming freshman at Bowie State University, I’ve committed to studying Cybersecurity with a minor in Public Policy. I believe that these two disciplines, when used together, can help transform our systems and protect communities of color, particularly in areas such as digital safety, equitable policy, and economic opportunity. I’ve seen firsthand how poverty, lack of access, and systemic neglect compound to create barriers for African American families. I aim to break down those barriers with a career rooted in innovation, service, and advocacy. I plan to make a positive difference in the world in three distinct ways: 1. Protecting Communities Through Cybersecurity Solutions In today’s digital age, data breaches, identity theft, and online exploitation disproportionately affect underserved populations. I plan to develop cybersecurity tools that nonprofits, churches, schools, and small Black-owned businesses can use to safeguard their digital environments. My long-term goal is to establish a nonprofit organization that offers free or low-cost digital security services to vulnerable communities and educates them on how to safeguard their personal information and networks. 2. Advocating for Fair and Inclusive Technology Policy Technology and public policy must work hand-in-hand. Discriminatory surveillance practices and algorithmic bias in artificial intelligence continue to threaten civil liberties—especially for people of color. With a foundation in public policy, I will fight for ethical tech laws that promote digital equity, protect marginalized populations, and dismantle harmful surveillance structures. I envision a future where tech regulation serves all people—fairly and transparently. 3. Empowering Future Black Leaders in STEM and Justice Representation is powerful. Far too often, young Black boys don’t see themselves reflected in STEM or justice-driven careers. I want to be the mentor I never had. Through coding workshops, school visits, and peer-led training programs, I plan to invest in the next generation of Black youth—especially those growing up in areas like mine. They need to know that their voices, creativity, and leadership are essential for shaping a better world. I am already making a positive impact on social issues in my community. I volunteer weekly at a local food bank and also serve in my church’s youth mentoring program. One of my proudest moments was organizing a technology workshop for senior citizens, where we taught them how to navigate smartphones safely, set up telehealth appointments, and identify online scams. These small efforts remind me that real change begins with proximity—serving the people right in front of you. Receiving this scholarship would not just help cover tuition—it would help me continue walking on purpose. It would represent belief in a young Black man who refuses to be defined by statistics but by service. The racial wealth gap and systemic injustice are real, but so are hope and solutions—and I plan to be part of both. I don’t seek status. I aim to impact. Through Cybersecurity, public policy, and unwavering faith, I am determined to help build a world where every community feels secure, seen, and supported.

Rooted in Faith, Driven by Purpose: My Commitment to Community Through Technology The hum of my father’s old desktop computer became the rhythm of my curiosity. As a child growing up in a modest home in Reserve, Louisiana, I didn’t have the latest gadgets or the fastest internet. But I had determination—and a father who, despite raising two kids alone, never let me feel limited by our circumstances. He taught me that faith wasn’t just something we practiced in church; it was a way of life. It was the reason we kept going when times were hard. That faith has now become the foundation of my dreams—to serve, protect, and uplift communities like mine through the power of technology. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am a high school senior preparing to attend Bowie State University, one of the nation’s great Historically Black Colleges and Universities. I will be majoring in Cybersecurity, with the long-term goal of building safer digital spaces for marginalized communities. My passion for Cybersecurity began not with a class assignment but with a question: “Who’s protecting us?” I realized that as technology advances, so do threats—and those without resources are often the most vulnerable. I knew I had to be part of the solution. I want to create a future where young Black students can learn coding not just as a career skill but as a tool for empowerment, where elderly community members feel confident using the internet without fear of scams. Where small Black-owned businesses can operate securely without the risk of digital attacks, this isn’t just a career path for me—it’s a calling. Throughout high school, I’ve committed myself to both academic growth and community service. I helped lead youth technology workshops at my church, teaching basic digital skills to seniors and middle school students. I’ve volunteered at food drives, mentored younger boys in my neighborhood, and worked alongside my dad to help single parents with household repairs. These moments have shown me that real impact isn’t about having a title or a platform—it’s about showing up. That’s what I plan to do every day of my life. Attending an HBCU like Bowie State means more than a degree. It means walking in the footsteps of trailblazers who turned obstacles into opportunities. It means learning in a space that affirms my identity, honors my ancestors, and equips me to lead with excellence. I want to take everything I gain—knowledge, connections, experience—and pour it back into my community. My dream is to one day launch a nonprofit that provides free cybersecurity education and financial literacy workshops to underserved neighborhoods, starting right here in Louisiana. The legacy of Willie Mae Rawls reminds me of my own great-grandmother—a woman whose strength, prayers, and unwavering hope held our family together. Like Ms. Rawls, she believed that every generation should go further than the last. This scholarship is not just a financial gift—it’s a torch. And I am ready to carry it. I may come from a small town, but my vision is big. I believe in a world where technology bridges gaps instead of widening them—where education is not a privilege for the few but a right for all. I believe that through faith, focus, and fearless determination, I can be part of building that world. Thank you for considering me for the Willie Mae Rawls Scholarship. I’m not just preparing for college—I’m preparing to serve, to lead, and to leave a legacy of impact.

From Curiosity to Code: My Journey into Technology The first time I realized the power of technology was in my junior year of high school when my father’s job information was compromised in a data breach. I didn’t understand the full scale of what had happened, but I knew one thing: the world was becoming more connected and not always in safe ways. That moment lit a fire in me. I began asking questions, researching cybersecurity, and immersing myself in online computer science videos and courses. That curiosity quickly turned into a passion when I took on my first real project: developing a basic home network monitoring system using Python and Raspberry Pi. The project started as an idea—I wanted to build something that could track who connected to my family’s home Wi-Fi and notify us of suspicious activity. I had no formal training at the time, just a lot of late nights, online tutorials, and trial and error. I coded a simple script to ping all devices connected to the router and log their MAC addresses. Then, using a database, I cross-referenced known devices and sent alerts for unknown ones via a text messaging API. After weeks of debugging and testing, I successfully implemented the alert system. The joy I felt when I received the first real-time alert was indescribable. It wasn’t perfect, but I had built something that worked and, more importantly—something that mattered. That project made me realize how empowering technology can be. It’s not just about computers or code—it’s about solving real-world problems, protecting people, and creating tools that make life better. Technology empowers ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things. It’s also where my heart is. Whether it’s protecting data, building applications that serve communities, or helping small businesses streamline operations, I’m drawn to the challenge and potential of tech. Currently, I’m pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a focus on cybersecurity. Every class, every lab, and every project fuels my vision for the future. I hope to one day work with government or nonprofit organizations to build secure systems that protect sensitive information, especially for vulnerable communities. I’ve seen firsthand how devastating data breaches and system failures can be for families like mine, and I want to be part of the solution. Working in technology inspires me because it’s a field where growth never stops. There’s always a new challenge, a new vulnerability to patch, a new tool to learn. It forces you to be both analytical and creative—two qualities I’ve come to value in myself. Most importantly, technology provides a platform for impact. Whether you’re designing an app for emergency responders or a program that makes learning more accessible for students, tech enables service. Receiving the Chadwick D. McNab Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of college, but it would also be an honor to continue the legacy of someone who believed in the power of growth, progress, and excellence in engineering. I want to use my education and future career to carry that same torch—building with purpose, serving with passion, and always pushing toward a better tomorrow.

Turning Pain Into Purpose: What I Learned From Losing My Uncle The hardest moment of my life came without warning. I was sixteen years old when my uncle, whom I lovingly called “Uncle June,” was tragically killed in a trucking accident. He wasn’t just a relative; he was one of the most consistent, loving, and supportive figures in my life. I lived with him and my grandmother, and we shared everyday moments that now feel like precious memories—cutting grass together, going to the park, talking after dinner. He wasn’t rich, famous, or flashy, but he was present. He gave me his time, his wisdom, and most importantly, his belief in me. When he passed, I felt like the ground beneath me had collapsed. Grief settled in like a heavy fog. I found myself falling behind in school, withdrawing from my usual activities, and feeling a kind of loneliness I had never experienced before. I questioned everything, including whether I had the strength to continue my goals, or whether college—something he always pushed me to pursue—was even possible anymore. That season of life tested me emotionally, mentally, and academically. But through the pain, I found clarity. I realized that giving up on myself would mean giving up on his legacy. He worked hard every day not just to provide but to inspire, and I knew the best way to honor him was to keep going. So, I got back up. Slowly but surely, I started focusing again—on school, on my goals, and on the future we had dreamed of together. I began studying computer science with a passion I hadn’t known before. I began learning about cybersecurity, fascinated by how it protects individuals and their sensitive information. As I dug deeper, I realized I could turn my pain into purpose—not just for myself, but for others. My goal now is to major in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and minor in Finance at Bowie State University. I want to build a career that secures data for families, small businesses, and underserved communities—people like my own, who often don’t have access to high-level protection. The loss of my uncle profoundly shaped my character in powerful ways. I’ve learned how to be resilient even when life feels unfair. I’ve learned how to be there for my family during difficult times. And I’ve learned that pain doesn’t have to break you—it can become the reason you rise. Today, I am not only on track to graduate high school with a strong GPA, but I am also committed to community service. I’ve volunteered through my church, tutored younger students, and led a tech workshop for kids in my neighborhood to help them understand coding and online safety. These aren’t just activities for me—they are the beginning of a legacy I plan to build in honor of the people who shaped me. As a first-generation college student, I know that the road ahead won’t be easy. But I carry with me the strength of my uncle’s example, and the determination to make sure his belief in me was never in vain. The Xavier M. Monroe Memorial Scholarship would not only help me financially—it would allow me to carry another legacy forward by supporting students like myself who’ve turned obstacles into opportunities. Thank you for considering my story. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Service Through Cybersecurity: My Path to Positive Impact I learned the value of service long before I chose my career path. Raised in a single-parent home in Reserve, Louisiana, I watched my father—a minister and mentor—work tirelessly to support my sister and me. When he wasn’t preaching or volunteering, he worked other jobs to keep the lights on. He taught me that real leadership begins with service, and real success means helping others succeed. I carry that lesson with me in everything I do. Whether working part-time in hospitality or volunteering through my church’s outreach ministry, I’ve found purpose in serving others. From helping distribute meals during the holidays to assisting elderly members of our congregation with technology, I’ve seen firsthand how small acts of service can change lives. These experiences have shaped who I am and who I aspire to be. As a high school senior with a 3.7 GPA, I plan to attend Bowie State University, where I will major in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and minor in Finance. My goal is to use education as a launchpad to protect people and empower communities through technology. We live in a digital world, but many people—especially in low-income neighborhoods like mine—are left vulnerable online. Small businesses, families, and nonprofits often lack the knowledge or resources to protect their information. My career mission is to fill that gap. I want to become a cybersecurity expert who helps defend these groups from fraud, identity theft, and data breaches. I will establish a tech firm that offers affordable cybersecurity services and community training programs tailored to underserved populations. I also plan to continue my work in youth mentorship. After leading a community tech workshop where I taught local students about online safety and basic coding, I realized the power of knowledge. Some of those students had never considered a career in technology before that experience. I aim to expand that impact by establishing mentorship programs, sponsoring tech boot camps, and collaborating with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to increase diversity in the fields of cybersecurity and finance. Furthering my education is the key that unlocks all of this. College will give me the knowledge, certification, and network I need to lead and serve effectively. I know that the road ahead won’t be easy. My family’s financial limitations mean I will need every ounce of determination, discipline, and outside support to reach the finish line. But I am ready. I applied for this scholarship because I believe in the power of higher education, not just to change my life, but to change the lives I plan to reach. I’m a first-generation college student who understands what it means to work hard, serve others, and turn struggle into strength. With your support, I will carry that mindset into every classroom, internship, and opportunity. The investment you make in me will multiply through the students I mentor, the businesses I protect, and the communities I help thrive. Thank you for considering my application and for helping students like me turn ambition into action. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Protecting the Future, One Line of Code at a Time When I was 14 years old, I assisted my church in installing new software for a community food distribution program. I didn’t know much at the time—I was following instructions from YouTube—but I remember how empowered I felt when the system worked. That moment lit a spark in me. I began to ask questions, explore coding, and dig into how technology works. I quickly realized that behind every website, every network, and every secure login was a world of opportunity—and a world of risk. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a cybersecurity expert. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I’m a senior at East St. John High School in Reserve, Louisiana. I plan to major in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity at Bowie State University and minor in Finance. My goal is to use technology not just to build systems but to protect them—and, more importantly, to protect the people who depend on them. In today’s world, cybersecurity is more than a tech issue—it’s a human one. As more communities, businesses, and individuals rely on digital platforms for banking, healthcare, education, and communication, the need for protection grows. Unfortunately, many of the people most at risk—low-income families, small businesses, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations—don’t have the resources to defend themselves. I plan to change that. I aim to establish a cybersecurity consulting firm that offers affordable or complimentary security services to underrepresented communities. This will include running vulnerability scans, setting up firewall protections, teaching families how to recognize phishing scams, and assisting small businesses in securing their customer data. I also plan to launch a digital literacy initiative that teaches students in middle and high school how to navigate the internet safely, understand cyber ethics, and consider careers in tech. My dream is to create a “tech shield” for my community—starting in Louisiana and eventually expanding nationwide. I believe that protecting digital spaces is just as crucial as protecting physical ones, especially at a time when identity theft, online scams, and cyberbullying are so prevalent. Through my work, I want to empower people to feel safe, informed, and in control of their online lives. But my impact won’t stop at local service. I plan to partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority-serving institutions to offer internship opportunities, mentorship programs, and training initiatives that increase Black and Brown representation in the tech field. I want to build pathways for students who, like me, may have once thought that computer science was out of reach. I believe in lifting as I climb, and I will measure my success not just by how much I protect, but by how many I empower. Receiving the Deborah Thomas Memorial Scholarship would bring me one step closer to these goals. Like Deborah, I believe in education as a vehicle for change. I am driven, focused, and prepared to face the academic challenges ahead, but I need help bridging the financial gap. This scholarship would alleviate some of the burden and enable me to focus entirely on expanding my knowledge, refining my skills, and preparing to make a meaningful impact. Thank you for considering my application. I am ready to code, defend, lead, and serve—and I will not stop until the digital world is a safer place for everyone. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Coding for the Climate: Building Sustainable Futures Through Technology and Finance I believe that real change starts with one decision—one step toward purpose. My name is Malachi Batiste, and I am an incoming Computer Science major with a concentration in Cybersecurity and a minor in Finance at Bowie State University, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) where I plan to turn my education into action. Over the next five years, I will create a positive environmental impact by combining digital innovation with financial insight to help underserved communities adopt sustainable practices and protect their futures. Technology plays a significant role in shaping our interactions with the environment, from smart cities to energy-efficient systems. I plan to leverage my training in computer science to develop tools that promote energy conservation, reduce digital waste, and facilitate eco-friendly financial planning. I will start locally by creating a community-facing mobile app that enables families and small businesses to track their energy usage, carbon footprint, and cost-saving opportunities in real time. I will design the app with underserved communities in mind—using clear visuals, low-data functionality, and culturally relevant features to ensure accessibility. While technology drives awareness, finance drives behavior. Many people want to live more sustainably, but believe they cannot afford it. That’s where my background in finance comes in. I will host financial wellness workshops that teach community members how to budget for sustainability, whether that means investing in home insulation, switching to reusable materials, or participating in community solar programs. I will also partner with local banks and nonprofits to help families access green grants and microloans for eco-friendly upgrades. Over the next five years, I also plan to launch a campus initiative at Bowie State called “Green Bytes.” This program will engage students in solving environmental challenges through coding competitions, hackathons, and internship pipelines with eco-conscious companies. We’ll address issues like e-waste management, food waste in campus dining, and digital sustainability practices for small businesses. By bringing together students from tech, finance, marketing, and healthcare backgrounds, we will build a coalition of young Black innovators focused on sustainability. My work doesn’t stop at the local level. I aim to make a global impact by connecting my efforts with sustainability-focused hackathons and contributing to open-source environmental technology projects that serve developing nations. Whether it’s building platforms that help farmers predict droughts using climate data or supporting secure digital infrastructure for green energy startups, I want my code to make a difference far beyond my zip code. I also plan to mentor younger students of color in high school and early college through tech workshops that demonstrate how they can utilize their skills to care for the planet. I want them to see that environmental stewardship isn’t just for scientists or policymakers—it’s for innovators, designers, business owners, and community leaders like them. I applied for this scholarship not just because I need financial help, although I do, but because I believe in FLIK Hospitality Group’s vision to remove barriers for Black and Brown leaders. Your support would help me access certifications, tech tools, and research materials that will sharpen my ability to lead with both heart and strategy. It would also allow me to focus on building real solutions, not just dreaming them up. My mission is clear: I will create scalable, community-driven solutions that merge sustainability, financial literacy, and technology. I will help people not only survive but also thrive—both economically and ecologically. With your help, I will become the kind of leader who transforms innovation into impact. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Pushing Beyond the Finish Line: Why I’m Continuing My Education Growing up in Reserve, Louisiana, I often heard my father say, “Son, education is your bridge out of limitation.” As a single parent raising two children, he modeled discipline, sacrifice, and faith. He worked long hours in ministry, mentoring others while still finding time to push me toward my purpose. That purpose began to come into focus in high school when I discovered a deep interest in how technology works—and how vulnerable our communities are without the knowledge to protect it. Now, as I prepare to graduate from Bowie State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and a minor in Finance, I realize that my academic journey cannot stop here. Suppose I fulfill my calling to serve and protect underrepresented communities in the digital age. In that case, I must continue my education and sharpen both my technical and leadership capabilities. I plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Risk Management, with a long-term goal of becoming a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for a major organization or establishing my firm that provides digital protection and training to small Black-owned businesses, churches, and nonprofits. The ever-evolving nature of cyber threats demands specialized, up-to-date training. I need this next level of education not just to stay relevant in the field but to become a thought leader in it. Graduate education represents more than just academic advancement for me—it’s a gateway to innovation, empowerment, and equity. I’ve already seen the positive impact of using my knowledge to serve others. In college, I led youth tech workshops for students in my hometown, teaching them about coding, online safety, and career paths in the tech industry. Many of them had never heard of Cybersecurity before. Watching their confidence grow helped confirm that I am called not just to work in this field, but to educate and inspire the next generation through it. However, I am also very aware of the financial barriers to continuing education. Federal financial aid primarily supports undergraduate study, and the transition to graduate school is daunting, especially for first-generation students like me. I want to walk into graduate school without the fear of accumulating unmanageable debt. I want to focus on academic excellence, professional development, and service, not survival. That’s why this scholarship means so much to me. It would not only help fund my future, but it would reaffirm that my vision is valid and worth investing in. The legacy of Charles E. Nettles, a dedicated historian and educator, deeply inspires me. He believed in shaping minds, telling stories, and creating space for truth and transformation through education. I, too, believe in the power of learning, not just to inform but to liberate. My mission is to use advanced education to amplify that power in the realm of technology and security, areas that are becoming increasingly critical to the success and safety of our communities. In short, I am not continuing my education simply for personal gain. I am continuing because my growth has the potential to open doors, create systems, and protect futures. My journey is far from over. With this scholarship, I’ll be one step closer to fulfilling my purpose—and carrying the legacy of leaders like Charles Nettles into the digital future. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

Building a Secure Future While Serving My Community Growing up in Reserve, Louisiana, I often found myself asking, “What can I do to make things better for people like me?” As a young African American male being raised in a single-parent home by my father, a minister, mentor, and my biggest inspiration, I quickly learned that education was more than just a tool for personal advancement. It was a bridge to transformation, not only for me but for my community. I’m proud to be graduating with a GPA above 3.0 and am committed to attending Bowie State University, one of the nation’s most distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). My goal is to major in cybersecurity and minor in finance, with the long-term dream of creating a cybersecurity consulting firm that empowers small businesses, schools, and nonprofits—especially in underserved communities—to protect their digital resources. What sparked my interest in technology was a simple question from a child I was tutoring at our church: “How do computers protect themselves?” I didn’t know the answer right away, but the curiosity that the question stirred led me down a path of learning HTML, researching firewalls, and discovering the world of ethical hacking. The more I learned, the more I realized how vulnerable our communities are to cyber threats and how few of us are equipped to defend ourselves digitally. That’s when I decided to commit my career to closing that gap. My educational goal is to excel academically at Bowie State while gaining hands-on experience through internships and community tech initiatives. I plan to earn industry certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ and Cisco CCNA, which will enhance my knowledge and open doors to professional opportunities. But more than that, I want to use my education to open doors for others. My professional goal is to launch a cybersecurity firm that offers free or low-cost services to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), churches, and small businesses and to train the next generation of African American youth in technology. I don’t just want to build firewalls—I want to build futures. Service is not something I discovered later in life. It’s something I was raised in. My father instilled in me the value of showing up, giving back, and speaking life into others. Whether it was helping with food distributions, tutoring at our church, or volunteering with local STEM youth programs, I learned early that real success includes lifting others as you climb. One of my proudest moments was organizing a summer tech workshop at our local community center. I taught kids basic coding and internet safety and introduced them to careers in the tech industry. Seeing their faces light up when they created their first website or identified a phishing scam reminded me that empowerment is contagious. That experience didn’t just teach them—it taught me. It showed me that public service isn’t just about charity—it’s about legacy. I am deeply committed to civic service because I understand that communities don’t heal from the outside in—they heal from the inside out. I aspire to be the kind of professional who not only builds a profitable business but also reinvests in schools, mentors young people, and influences policy on cybersecurity and digital access. One of my future goals is to establish a nonprofit organization that will collaborate with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to offer on-campus cybersecurity training, digital literacy seminars, and scholarships for students pursuing technology-related fields. I believe I am the best candidate for the Eleven Shades of Fate Scholarship, not because I have all the answers but because I am driven to ask the right questions—and take action. I represent the kind of student your scholarship was created for: ambitious, underrepresented, and committed to making an impact. I understand that attending college, especially an HBCU, is not just about what I will receive—it’s about what I will give. I am walking into this next chapter of my life with a clear sense of purpose and a strong foundation of faith, service, and determination. I want my life to reflect the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha: manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all humanity. Thank you for considering me for this honor. I hope to not only receive this scholarship but to make you proud of the investment you make in me—for years to come. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

A Path Paved by Purpose: My Journey into Computer Science My journey into computer science started not in a classroom but in a church basement. I volunteered at a community program organized by our church in Reserve, Louisiana, where I assisted elementary students with their schoolwork. One day, a little boy asked if I could help him understand how computers "talk" to each other. I didn't have a clear answer at the time, but that question lit a spark in me. I went home that evening and started researching how networks, data, and security work. The more I learned, the more I realized I wanted to dedicate my life to understanding and mastering the systems that underpin our digital world. What began as a curiosity has now become my calling. I'm preparing to major in cybersecurity and computer science at Bowie State University, with a long-term goal of becoming a security analyst and eventually launching my cybersecurity consulting firm. My dream is to help protect both small businesses and underserved communities from cyber threats. I want to build a platform that teaches students like the one in that basement not just how computers work, but how they can use technology to create secure, purpose-filled lives. What drives me is more than interest; it's a sense of responsibility. I was raised in a single-parent household by my father, a minister and mentor who made daily sacrifices to provide for my sister and me. I saw firsthand what resilience looks like. But I also saw what limited access to technology and financial resources can mean for kids who look like me. That's why I've devoted time outside of school to volunteering—whether through church food drives, tutoring, or leading a youth tech workshop where I taught kids basic coding and online safety. These experiences weren't just service—they were seeds sown into the lives of future technologists. I believe I'm the best candidate for the Chris Jackson Scholarship, not just because of what I've done but because of what I intend to do. I don't want to earn a degree—I want to become a bridge. A bridge between opportunity and equity. Between questions and answers. Between curiosity and career. Chris Jackson's story resonates deeply with me, especially his early struggle to afford an education that ultimately led to a life of impact. Like him, I've faced challenges, but I've met them with faith, grit, and an unshakable desire to help others rise with me. I know that this scholarship will not only ease the financial burden of college—it will empower me to continue the kind of work Chris lived for: building people, advancing knowledge, and shaping futures. Thank you for considering my application. I pray to honor his legacy not just in words but in action. Sincerely, Malachi Batiste

The Achievement That Changed Me: Launching a Community Tech Workshop When I first taught a group of middle school students how to build a basic website at our local community center, I didn’t expect the moment to change the direction of my life. But it did. That day, I realized that what I knew—basic coding, cybersecurity awareness, and creative tech tools—had the power to open doors for others. Launching that small workshop for underserved youth in Reserve, Louisiana, became the personal achievement I’m most proud of, not only because it helped others but because it helped me discover my purpose. I grew up in a single-parent household, raised by my father, who juggled ministry, mentoring, and multiple jobs to keep us stable. His commitment to community and character shaped everything in me. Inspired by his example, I began volunteering through our church to help with food drives, tutoring, and mentoring younger kids. However, the idea for the tech workshop came to me when I realized how few kids in our neighborhood were being introduced to the digital skills that are shaping today’s careers. Many of them didn’t even have access to laptops outside of school. With the help of a few church leaders and donated devices, I created a five-week summer program that covered the basics of HTML, online safety, and problem-solving with tech. I used colorful slides, interactive games, and relatable stories to keep their attention—and it worked. Several of the students later told me they wanted to pursue careers in technology. That workshop showed me the impact of education and equity in action. The experience gave me more than a sense of accomplishment—it gave me direction. I now plan to major in cybersecurity and minor in finance at Bowie State University, a historically Black college that aligns with both my heritage and my mission. I want to build a career that protects communities and businesses from digital threats while empowering others to pursue technology without fear or limitation. One of the students from my first workshop recently messaged me, saying, “You made me think I could do this tech stuff.” That message reminded me why I’m on this path. I believe mentorship is one of the most potent forms of legacy, and if I can help even one person see themselves differently—stronger, smarter, more capable—then I’ve succeeded. Winning the Gregory Flowers Memorial Scholarship would be more than a financial gift. It would be a continuation of everything Mr. Flowers stood for: service, mentoring, and believing in the untapped potential of young people of color. I carry that same mission in my heart. And like him, I don’t want to achieve for myself—I want to create spaces where others can grow, thrive, and lead