I was thirteen when I joined GreenTech in January 2021, and at that point, I honestly did not have a clear picture of my future. Growing up Black and financially unstable made college and careers in STEM feel distant, almost unrealistic. For a long time, I felt discouraged about what I could actually achieve. It was my aunt who pushed me to try GreenTech, and that decision ended up changing how I viewed myself and my potential. GreenTech introduced me to agriculture, sustainability, and green technology in a way that felt real and hands on. I learned how environmental systems work and how technology can be used to improve communities rather than just exist on a screen. Even though agriculture and sustainability are not typically tied to computer science, the program kept pushing me forward and helped me connect different fields together. GreenTech showed me that I did not have to choose between interests. I could care about the environment, technology, and problem solving all at the same time, which gave me a stronger sense of direction. Originally, I planned to work in digital design or graphic design because I have always been creative and comfortable with art. At some point, though, I had a realization. I started thinking about the technology behind the designs and asking myself how the software I was using actually worked. That curiosity turned into a deeper interest in the software world and eventually led me to computer science. I became more interested in building technology rather than just using it, and that shift completely changed my academic goals. My path has not been perfect or consistent. In December 2023, I was diagnosed with illness anxiety and chronic stress, and I am still managing hypertension. These challenges affected my motivation, confidence, and consistency, and there were times when I stepped away from things I cared about. However, those experiences also forced me to slow down and reflect on what I want out of life. I want a future where I am doing work that improves society while also protecting my own well being. Regaining my passion after struggling has taught me resilience and reminded me why purpose matters to me. I will be attending Sacramento State to study computer science, and earning a degree means more to me than just personal success. I do not want to continue the generational struggle with access to higher education. My mother earned multiple degrees but still faced barriers that limited their impact. My father did not finish college, and generations before them did not have equal access to education at all. Pursuing computer science is my way of moving forward while honoring the sacrifices and struggles that came before me. The legacy of Maleiha Lei Lee Garcia Smith represents resilience, compassion, and service, values that strongly align with my own experiences. Honoring that legacy means continuing to grow despite obstacles and using education to uplift others. This scholarship would relieve financial pressure and allow me to fully focus on my education, health, and growth. More importantly, it would affirm that my story, determination, and goals matter. With this support, I will continue working toward a future defined by impact, purpose, and meaningful change.