One of the most meaningful projects I completed, which continues to shape my academic and professional path, was my master’s capstone study on the impact of supervised screen time on child development. This research examined the relationship between the amount and type of screen exposure children received each week and how parents perceived their child’s developmental progress or challenges. I designed a quantitative survey that explored not only the time spent on screens but also the quality of parental involvement—specifically, whether families co-viewed media, discussed online content, or allowed unrestricted device access. As both a parent and a military educator specializing in computer and security practices, this topic was deeply personal and professionally relevant. I have witnessed firsthand how technology can act as both a bridge and a barrier. In my home, technology serves as a tool for learning, creativity, and connection. In my military role, it is a mission-critical resource that demands constant vigilance, training, and ethical responsibility. This project enabled me to explore the intersection of these two worlds: the intimate realm of family life and the structured, high-stakes environment of cybersecurity. The findings from my study were illuminating. Households that prioritized active engagement in their children’s digital lives—through co-participation, open dialogue, and content review—reported higher levels of perceived developmental achievement. In contrast, families that allowed unsupervised or passive screen use often associated screen time with attention difficulties, social challenges, or emotional dysregulation. What stood out to me most was not just the data but the underlying values: families who focused on their child's holistic well-being tended to extend that intentionality to their technology habits. This insight reinforced my belief that the key to thriving in a digital world lies in guidance rather than restriction and in conversation rather than control. Working on this project strengthened my commitment to using technology as a force for growth and connection. It inspired me to consider how artificial intelligence, data analytics, and human-centered design can be leveraged to promote digital literacy and wellness among both children and adults. In the future, I hope to expand this research by developing AI-driven tools that help parents monitor, interpret, and adapt their children’s technology use in healthy ways—tools that empower rather than replace human judgment. As a military professional, I am motivated by service and the belief that knowledge should never stop with one person. I have often been the only woman—and the only Asian voice—in technical spaces. Instead of being discouraged, I have learned to stand out and then turn around to lift others—ensuring that the next generation of women, parents, and service members are equipped to lead with both skill and empathy. Technology will shape every future—how we learn, communicate, and care for one another. This project reminded me that innovation must always be grounded in humanity. That conviction continues to guide my studies and my work as I strive to build a career that helps others use technology not just to succeed but to thrive.

Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence Applications at the University of Maryland Global Campus represents more than an academic achievement; it is a foundation for empowering others, particularly women and underrepresented communities, to thrive in the rapidly evolving STEM landscape. As an active-duty military member and an Asian woman in technology, I have often found myself as the “only one in the room.” Instead of viewing this isolation as a disadvantage, I have embraced it as a responsibility to widen the path for others to follow. My goal is to foster a community where women can transform curiosity into competence and competence into contribution—both in the military and in civilian STEM sectors. In the military, innovation and discipline intersect daily. My experience navigating this environment has honed my ability to lead teams, manage complex systems, and approach problems strategically—skills that align directly with the data-driven nature of AI. However, what motivates me most is the opportunity to translate this expertise into mentorship. By combining the technical foundation from my AI coursework—such as machine learning, data ethics, and automation design—with the leadership principles I have developed through service, I plan to create mentorship programs tailored for women in uniform and veterans transitioning into STEM fields. These programs will emphasize confidence-building, accessible education, and real-world applications of AI that serve the public good, such as healthcare analytics and cybersecurity. Representation matters deeply in technical environments. As an Asian minority, I have learned the quiet strength of visibility: simply being present and performing with integrity can inspire others who may question their place in these fields. Yet, presence alone is not enough. Through active engagement—hosting workshops, collaborating with educational organizations, and using my own journey as an example—I intend to normalize women’s participation and leadership in AI. I want young women, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to view technology as a space where their ideas and cultural perspectives are not just welcomed, but essential to progress. At 32, my drive is not centered on being the best in the room, but on ensuring the room itself grows larger and more inclusive. My long-term vision after retiring from the military is to continue serving by supporting veterans and their families as they pursue new skills and careers in technology. Veterans possess resilience, adaptability, and teamwork—qualities that align perfectly with the collaborative problem-solving required in AI development. By bridging my military experience and academic knowledge, I hope to design educational initiatives that demystify AI for veterans and provide practical pathways into the tech workforce. Ultimately, my degree in AI Applications is not just an endpoint, but a tool for empowerment. It equips me to mentor, educate, and advocate for women, minorities, and veterans who deserve a place at the forefront of innovation. My journey reflects the belief that leadership is not about standing above others, but standing beside them—using knowledge as a bridge toward shared excellence and collective advancement in STEM.

I am a first-generation Asian-American adoptee from Shanghai, and my answer to where I call home often depends on my audience. As a member of a military family, I have moved frequently, and as an Active-Duty service member, I continue to redefine what home means each year. However, one "home" that has remained constant in my life is any place of learning and growth. Friends and family often tease me that the library is my true home because I spend most of my time there, working towards my goals to complete my degree. I began my Associate's degree in 2014 and finished it in 2017. I then completed my Bachelor's degree in 2021 from Saint Leo University, achieving top grades despite facing challenges, including giving birth to my first child and navigating the uncertainties of the pandemic. As of February 2025, I have finally completed my Master’s degree at National University. My current goal is to obtain a second Bachelor's degree in AI Foundations from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Returning to school is crucial for me because I will turn 32 next year, and I have until 2032 to retire from the military. Keeping up with relevant industry skills is critical for my future employability. Currently, I am 14 years into my service, so completing 20 years finally feels attainable. In addition to pursuing this degree and obtaining certifications, I have earned an undergraduate certificate in Computer Networking and hold CompTIA certifications in Security+ and Network+. With this background, I aspire to work in AI and cybersecurity upon my retirement. This Bachelor's degree in AI Applications will be the final credential that sets me apart from younger, more tech-savvy candidates. Over the past few years, I have worked in IT within the military, focusing on System Administration, auditing, and instruction. I bring a range of valuable skills to any future team I have the opportunity to join. However, I have exhausted my financial benefits and am nearing the completion of my degree, with only six classes left to complete. I have always been focused and dedicated to my studies, but now I need to reach out for your support, as I seek reassurance that I am still on the right path toward achieving the goals I set for myself a decade ago, when I was 19 years old. I am incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished so far, and I look forward to seeing what doors and opportunities await me on the other side of this challenging journey.

The significance of free speech in American college students' intellectual and personal development cannot be overstated. It is the cornerstone of a democratic society, fostering critical thinking, diversity of thought, and personal growth. I am a huge advocate of constructive discourse, respectful argumentation, and the ability to contextualize information within broader societal values. As a student of behavior psychology, I realize the pivotal role that free speech plays in shaping organizational structures and social dynamics, particularly in facilitating paradigm-shifting conversations necessary for progress. In the realm of academia, free speech serves as a catalyst for your intellectual inquiry and growth. It encourages you to engage critically with diverse perspectives, challenging your assumptions and expanding your understanding of complex issues. By fostering an environment where ideas can be freely exchanged and debated, colleges empower you to develop your analytical skills and refine your own beliefs. Your emphasis on the importance of arguing with kindness, fairness, and respect highlights not only the intellectual benefits of free speech but also its role in promoting empathy and understanding among individuals with differing viewpoints. Moreover, free speech is essential for preserving democracy and individual liberty. In a society where diverse voices can be heard, marginalized communities can advocate for their rights and challenge systemic inequalities. By encouraging students to speak out against injustice and oppression, colleges cultivate a sense of civic responsibility and empower future leaders to effect positive change in their communities. It is essential to use free speech in order to break down barriers to equality and promote social justice through open dialogue and critical reflection. As a student of behavior psychology, my field of study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying effective communication and conflict resolution. By understanding the cognitive and social factors that influence human behavior, you are equipped to design interventions and create environments that facilitate constructive dialogue and mutual understanding. I focus on organizational structures and social scaffolding, highlighting the importance of creating inclusive spaces where all voices are heard and respected. In addition to my academic pursuits, your extracurricular activities also seek to advance diversity of thought and critical thinking on campus. Whether through student organizations, community service projects, or artistic endeavors, I do my part to engage with diverse perspectives and experiences. By collaborating with others who may hold different beliefs or backgrounds, I often can learn from others and challenge each other's assumptions in a supportive and respectful manner. I exercise introspective creativity daily and know it can be a powerful tool for bridging divides and fostering empathy, highlighting the importance of embracing diverse forms of expression in campus culture. In conclusion, free speech is essential for American college students' intellectual and personal development. It fosters critical thinking, diversity of thought, and empathy while catalyzing social change. As a student of behavior psychology, my commitment to promoting constructive dialogue and breaking down barriers to equality reflects the transformative potential of free speech in higher education. By creating inclusive environments where all voices are heard and respected, colleges can empower students to become engaged citizens and compassionate leaders in an increasingly complex world.

Title: Crafting the Ideal Bookshelf: A Journey through BookTok's Fantasy Realms One can find solace, inspiration, and enlightenment in the vast universe of literature. For the ardent fantasy lover and idealist, the bookshelf becomes not just a repository of stories but a portal to worlds where the ordinary transcends into the extraordinary, where the fabric of reality intertwines with magic, and where protagonists undergo transformative journeys of self-discovery. Inspired by BookTok recommendations, the ideal bookshelf for such a seeker of wonders and wisdom must encompass tales that echo the very essence of their being. At the heart of this fantastical collection lies a series of titles that resonate with the theme of self-realization and the discovery of one's inherent brilliance. Among these, Patrick Rothfuss's "The Name of the Wind" stands tall as a beacon of hope and resilience. Within its pages, readers embark on a journey alongside Kvothe, a gifted yet unaware protagonist whose quest for knowledge and mastery unveils the depths of his potential. Rothfuss masterfully weaves a tale of magic, music, and mystery, guiding the reader through a world where every trial catalyzes personal growth. Leigh Bardugo's "Six of Crows" duology is a thrilling saga set in the gritty streets of Ketterdam. Here, against a backdrop of daring heists and heart-wrenching betrayals, characters like the cunning Kaz Brekker and the resilient Inej Ghafa step out from the shadows of their pasts, embracing their strengths and confronting their fears. Bardugo's narrative prowess infuses the story with themes of resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring power of hope, making it a must-read for any idealist yearning for tales of triumph against adversity. As the modern world converges with realms of magic, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, offering fertile ground for exploring universal truths and values. Enter "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern, a mesmerizing tale set within a magical competition that transcends time and space. Within the confines of the enigmatic circus tents, protagonists Celia and Marco navigate a world where illusion and reality intertwine, grappling with the weight of destiny and the nature of free will. Morgenstern's lyrical prose and evocative imagery invite readers to ponder the intricacies of love, sacrifice, and the interconnectedness of all things. No fantasy collection would be complete without Neil Gaiman's magnum opus, "American Gods." In this modern mythological epic, gods and mythical beings walk among mortals, their powers waning as belief in them fades. Shadow Moon, the unwitting protagonist, is drawn into a conflict of cosmic proportions, his journey mirroring the quest for identity and purpose that resonates with the idealist's soul. Gaiman's narrative deftly explores themes of belief, cultural identity, and the ever-shifting landscape of human faith, offering readers a glimpse into the depths of the human psyche. When curating your ideal bookshelf inspired by BookTok recommendations, it's crucial to heed the call of fantasy's siren song. These are tales that resonate with the essence of the idealist's soul, guiding them through journeys of self-discovery, encounters with magic, and reflections on the nature of reality. As the pages turn and the worlds unfold, the reader embarks on a quest of their own, seeking not just stories but the truths that lie within, a journey that can be as transformative as the tales themselves.