Technology has always been a driving force in my life, fueling my curiosity and inspiring me to find innovative solutions to real-world problems. My passion for technology led me to pursue a degree in a health-related field focusing on integrating technological advancements to improve patient care and mental health advocacy. I am particularly interested in how data-driven solutions, machine learning, and digital tools can enhance healthcare accessibility and outcomes. By combining my technical skills with my dedication to mental health awareness, I aim to create impactful solutions that help individuals receive the care they need. My career goal is to leverage technology to bridge gaps in mental health care, ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have access to the support they need. Many communities, particularly underserved populations, lack adequate mental health resources. Through the development of digital mental health tools, AI-powered diagnostic aids, and accessible telehealth solutions, I hope to reduce these disparities. I aspire to develop and implement technology-driven solutions that promote early intervention, reduce stigma, and create more inclusive healthcare environments. This scholarship will help me continue my education, allowing me to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the field. Throughout my academic journey, I have faced challenges that have tested my resilience. After a serious medical condition, I struggled with memory loss and academic setbacks, leading to the loss of my HOPE Scholarship. It was difficult to regain my confidence and academic standing, but I remained determined to push forward. I worked hard to recover, relearning study habits, seeking support from professors, and staying committed to my passion for technology and healthcare. Despite these setbacks, I found purpose in advocating for others who faced similar struggles. I have taken on leadership roles in mental health advocacy, helping individuals navigate their challenges by providing resources and encouragement. Whether through peer mentorship, charity donations, or actively participating in mental health awareness events, I have made it a priority to contribute to the well-being of others. Diversity and inclusion are crucial in the tech industry because they foster innovation and ensure that technology serves all communities equitably. The lack of diverse perspectives in technology often results in biased algorithms, limited accessibility, and exclusionary systems. Representation from diverse backgrounds brings unique viewpoints that lead to more effective and inclusive solutions. As someone passionate about both technology and healthcare, I strive to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive tech landscape, ensuring that advancements in mental health care are accessible and beneficial to all. Moreover, diverse teams are essential for addressing the mental health crisis in a way that is culturally competent and comprehensive. The intersection of technology and mental health care requires professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by various communities. By advocating for inclusivity in tech, I hope to ensure that the tools we create serve everyone, not just a select few. This scholarship represents an opportunity to continue my education, further my impact in the tech and healthcare fields, and advocate for inclusivity in both spaces. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to push forward, using my experiences and knowledge to create meaningful change and inspire others to pursue their passions in technology and healthcare. I am committed to using my skills to design and implement technological solutions that prioritize mental health, break down barriers, and create a future where everyone has access to the care they deserve.

1. Please tell us a bit about yourself and what specifically motivates you. If you could do anything with your life, what do you imagine you’d do? I am a dedicated and resilient individual with a passion for learning and problem-solving, which has shaped my academic and personal journey. My natural curiosity drives me to explore new topics, particularly in computer science, where I aim to make a meaningful impact. Technology excites me because it offers a unique opportunity to create solutions for some of the world’s most pressing problems, especially in underserved communities. As I continue my education, I am most inspired by the potential of machine learning to automate tasks, improve security, and protect personal information. These applications have wide-reaching impacts, from making businesses more efficient to safeguarding people’s online presence. If I could do anything with my life, it would be to develop innovative solutions that benefit humanity, particularly in the area of technology. I envision myself contributing to projects that not only advance industries but also address societal challenges. My dream is to create cutting-edge tools that empower communities, particularly underserved populations, and make a difference in their daily lives. One of my primary goals is to work in a space where I can blend my technical skills with my desire to give back to my community. I am passionate about using technology to uplift the Cherokee Nation and other underrepresented groups, making their voices heard in an increasingly digital world. 2. What excites you about STEM? How do you feel you could make a positive impact on the world through a job in information technology? STEM excites me because it is an ever-evolving field that constantly offers new challenges and opportunities to innovate. Technology, particularly information technology, is at the heart of almost every aspect of modern life—from healthcare to business to education—and its impact on society is undeniable. What excites me most is the power of STEM to solve real-world problems. The ability to design systems that automate processes, improve decision-making, and enhance lives is what draws me to this field. The idea that the work I do can contribute to groundbreaking solutions that benefit people is both motivating and fulfilling. In terms of making a positive impact, I see information technology as a powerful tool for social change. Through IT, I can bridge the digital divide that exists in underserved communities, including the Cherokee Nation. My interest in machine learning aligns with my goal of creating accessible tools that improve the quality of life in these communities. For example, I can use data analytics and AI to design systems that help local schools and businesses thrive, or create platforms that increase access to healthcare and education. By empowering underserved populations with the right technological tools and resources, I can help ensure they are equipped for success in a rapidly changing world. I am particularly excited about the initiatives aimed at supporting Native students and communities, and I plan to contribute to these efforts. Information technology has the potential to level the playing field, offering new opportunities for those who may have been left behind in the digital age. 3. Please describe the greatest challenge you’ve had to overcome and how you managed to get past it. The greatest challenge I have faced in my academic journey was adapting to the fast-paced and constantly evolving nature of the technology field. When I first began studying computer science, I found it difficult to keep up with the rapid advancements in technology. New programming languages, tools, and techniques were introduced almost daily, and it became overwhelming to absorb everything while still excelling in my coursework. Balancing my academic responsibilities with my desire to learn independently felt like an impossible task at times, especially as I strived to stay current with emerging trends and technologies. To overcome this challenge, I had to develop strong time management skills and a disciplined approach to my studies. I learned to prioritize my tasks and set realistic goals for both my coursework and self-driven projects. By creating a structured schedule, I could allocate time for exploring new technologies without neglecting my academic responsibilities. Additionally, I began leveraging online resources, such as coding forums and tutorials, to supplement my learning. These tools helped me quickly grasp new concepts and solve problems efficiently. Through perseverance, I developed a growth mindset that allowed me to view challenges as opportunities for learning. I learned that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process and that success comes from persistence and adaptation. This experience taught me the importance of flexibility, time management, and continuous improvement—skills I continue to apply in my studies and projects today.

Mental health advocacy has been an integral part of my journey, personally and in my interactions with others. Through my own experiences overcoming medical challenges and the mental strain that accompanied them, I have developed a deep commitment to fostering an environment of understanding, empathy, and support for those struggling with their mental health. During my recovery from a medical condition that took four years to heal, I faced significant emotional and cognitive challenges, including memory loss and academic struggles. This experience showed me how isolating it can be to navigate both physical and mental recovery without a strong support system. Recognizing the importance of mental health resources, I became dedicated to supporting others facing similar hardships. I have helped fellow students struggling academically and emotionally, offering encouragement and sharing resources. Whether assisting a friend after personal trauma or simply being a listening ear, I strive to create a safe space for those in need. Additionally, I have donated to mental health charities, recognizing the importance of funding resources for those who need them. One of my most meaningful contributions was helping my sister get her friend into therapy after she was sexually assaulted, ensuring she received the support necessary for healing. Beyond individual support, I actively engage in mental health advocacy by learning and educating others at events. Raising awareness and reducing stigma is essential in making mental health care more accessible and accepted. My studies in a health-related field are driven by my passion for advocating for mental well-being. I plan to integrate mental health awareness into my future career, ensuring emotional wellness is prioritized alongside physical health. I hope to work on initiatives that promote early intervention, reduce stigma, and create supportive environments where individuals feel comfortable seeking help. Receiving this scholarship would support my academic journey and reinforce my commitment to mental health advocacy. My experiences have shaped me into someone who values empathy, resilience, and advocacy, and I am determined to continue uplifting others. Through my future work in healthcare, I aim to be a voice for those struggling with mental health challenges and to foster a community where compassion and support are at the forefront of patient care.

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.