My name is Maranda Keys, and I am a senior at Christian Brothers University, majoring in Computer Science with a focus on programming. As a Black and Native American woman, I have always been aware of the challenges faced by people like me in the tech industry. Growing up, I did not see many people who looked like me in the field I am passionate about, and this has driven me to work hard and break barriers. My journey into computer science began with a curiosity about how things work. I remember dismantling old electronics just to see what was inside, and it was this curiosity that led me to my first programming class in high school. There, I found a world where I could create and solve problems in ways I never imagined. This experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in technology. Being a first-generation college student, navigating higher education has been a learning curve for both me and my family. While my parents have always supported my dreams, financial constraints have been a constant concern. They have worked tirelessly to provide for me, but the cost of college is a burden that weighs heavily on us all. This is why the Concrete Rose Scholarship Award is so important to me. Receiving this scholarship would significantly ease the financial strain on my family and allow me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of tuition fees. It would give me the opportunity to invest in resources and experiences that will enhance my education, such as attending programming workshops, participating in tech conferences, and engaging with communities that support women and minorities in tech. My career goal is to become a software developer who not only builds innovative solutions but also advocates for diversity and inclusion within the tech industry. I want to create spaces where people from all backgrounds feel welcome and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. This scholarship will help me get closer to achieving this goal by enabling me to complete my degree and enter the workforce without the heavy burden of student debt. Moreover, I aspire to mentor young women and minorities interested in technology, showing them that they too can succeed in this field. I believe that representation matters, and having role models who reflect your identity can make all the difference. By achieving my career goals, I hope to inspire the next generation to pursue their passions in tech. In conclusion, the Concrete Rose Scholarship Award would not only support my educational journey but also help me in my mission to make the tech industry more inclusive and diverse. I am committed to using my skills and experiences to create positive change, and with this scholarship, I am one step closer to making that vision a reality. Thank you for considering my application.

For the benefit of the future, I am working towards becoming involved in the way people interact with and understand technology. As a User Experience designer, I want to solve the many issues people have when interacting with technology. Some have disabilities or may need extra accessibility features. This includes people who are color blind, deaf, or may rely on a screen reader. Technology is intended to improve the average quality of life. By championing inclusivity and designing user-centric solutions, I aim to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, can fully engage with and benefit from technology. Working in STEM as a woman guarantees that there will be a lot of challenges. Women in STEM often face workplace hostility and being overlooked for promotion. According to Pew Research, women are more likely to face sexual harassment and discrimination. Just being a woman is a large disadvantage in this field. There are even shocking examples from companies like Blizzard and the large lawsuit they had filed against them for enabling a work culture that made their female employees unsafe and undervalued. However, as long as I love UX and software development; I'll pursue a career in it. I will continue to pursue a career in this field despite the risks. Through mentorship, outreach, and advocacy initiatives, I aspire to empower women to pursue their passions and excel in their chosen STEM disciplines. By serving as a role model and sharing my own experiences, I hope to inspire the next generation of female technologists to pursue their dreams and make their mark in the world of IT. As a Dynamic Woman in IT, my future goals involve leveraging my expertise in UX and software development to drive positive change and innovation in the pursuit of a better future. I am committed to breaking barriers and championing inclusivity by ensuring that technology is accessible to all, regardless of ability or background. Additionally, I strive to set an example and advocate for women in STEM. I want to work on empowering them to pursue their passions and thrive in the STEM field of their choosing. Winning this scholarship would enable me to further advance towards these goals, allowing me to focus on my studies, expand my skill set, and continue making meaningful contributions to the IT community. By embracing the challenges and opportunities ahead, I am determined to make a lasting impact and inspire others to do the same.