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Mikaela Leith

1,605

Bold Points

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Finalist

Bio

My name is Mikaela. I am 21 years old, and I am from New York City. I am a rising senior at the University of Maryland. I am a part if the Alpha Rho Chi professional fraternity. Since I was a little girl, my dream has been to become an Architect. I would like to use my degree to help create sustainable, eco-friendly housing for those in need. My goal is to use my degree to better the lives of different people and communities. In my free time, I like to spend time with my friends and family, play volleyball and basketball, and I also love to travel and try new things. In high school I was apart of clubs, and also was elected as an athletic representative for my grade. I hope to continue being an active part of my community in college.

Education

University of Maryland-College Park

Bachelor's degree program
2021 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Architectural Engineering
    • Interior Architecture

Nightingale-Bamford School

High School
2008 - 2021

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Interior Architecture
    • Architectural Engineering
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Architecture & Planning

    • Dream career goals:

      Company Founder

    • Intern

      NSJ Remodeling
      2024 – 2024
    • Intern

      Hudson Design
      2023 – 2023
    • Team member

      Target
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Created and led group activities

      Sunny Days Camp
      2019 – 2019

    Sports

    Softball

    Varsity
    2016 – 20182 years

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2016 – Present8 years

    Awards

    • team captain

    Volleyball

    Varsity
    2016 – Present8 years

    Awards

    • mvp

    Arts

    • Independent

      Dance
      Concerts
      2010 – 2016

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Early Head Start — Culinary Assistant
      2016 – 2016

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Entrepreneurship

    Reginald Kelley Scholarship
    Architecture is not merely about constructing buildings; it's about shaping environments that influence human experiences and interactions. From a young age, I have been captivated by the profound impact that architecture has on society, and this passion has evolved into a driving force behind my career aspirations. Growing up, I often passed by houses that were abandoned or destroyed by fires. Seeing this led me to constantly envision how I could transform what was once someones home, into a space that could serve another family or the community in a positive way. One of the most compelling aspects of architecture for me is its ability to blend creativity with functionality. The process of designing spaces that seamlessly integrate aesthetic beauty with practicality fascinates me. Whether it's envisioning sustainable urban developments or revitalizing historic landmarks, architecture allows me to contribute to the built environment in a way that enhances quality of life and promotes sustainability. It has been studied that architecture has the ability to impact peoples emotions and mental health, and my goal is to find ways to impact these aspects of peoples’ lives in a positive way. I am deeply committed to using architecture as a tool for social change and community empowerment. I believe that architects have a responsibility to address pressing societal issues such as affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and inclusive design. Through my career, I aim to advocate for design solutions that prioritize accessibility, equity, and environmental stewardship. With advancements in digital design tools, building materials, and construction techniques, there is immense potential to create more aesthetically pleasing structures that don’t pose a threat to the environment. I am eager to explore these possibilities and contribute to the evolution of efficient architectural practices. My goal is to make a lasting impact through architecture by designing spaces that inspire and connect people. Whether it's designing sustainable housing solutions for underserved communities, creating public spaces that foster social interaction, or preserving cultural heritage, I am driven by a vision of architecture as a catalyst for positive change. In conclusion, my passion for architecture stems from a desire to blend creativity, functionality, and social responsibility. Through my career, I am committed to pushing the boundaries of architectural practice, advocating for sustainable and inclusive design, and making a meaningful impact on the built environment and society as a whole. I am eager to embark on this journey, embracing challenges, seizing opportunities, and contributing to a future where architecture serves as a transformative force for good.
    C.L. Scholarship of Black Women in Engineering
    As a young woman aspiring to make an impact in the field of engineering, I draw immense inspiration from Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space. Mae Jemison's journey not only surpassed societal barriers but also exemplified resilience, intellect, and a commitment to pushing boundaries in STEM fields. Her achievements resonate deeply with me and fuel my determination to pursue a career in engineering. Mae Jemison's career trajectory is a testament to perseverance and a refusal to be limited by societal expectations. Growing up, she faced numerous challenges and setbacks, yet she persisted in pursuing her passion for science and engineering. Her journey reminds me that adversity is not a roadblock but an opportunity for growth and innovation. Mae Jemison’s experience also resonates with me as I grew up in a single family household, and attended a predominantly white school for kindergarten through twelth grade. For the majority of my elementary and middle school experience, I was the only black student in my class and often experienced racial bias and doubt from my white peers. By reflecting on Mae Jemison’s career, I did not let the opinions of others impact me. Instead, I used negative comments to fuel me to achieve all the things I have wanted to. Moreover, Mae Jemison's multidisciplinary approach to education and career choices inspires me to embrace diversity in knowledge and skills. Before becoming an astronaut, she earned degrees in chemical engineering and African and African American Studies, demonstrating the importance of a broad educational foundation in tackling complex challenges. Her ability to seamlessly integrate science, technology, and humanities aligns with my own interdisciplinary interests in engineering and architecture. Her career has also shown that it is possible to combine multiple areas of interest to create a meaningful impact in society. Mae Jemison's commitment to encouraging diversity and inclusion in STEM fields serves as a guiding principle in my own aspirations. She founded the Jemison Group, which focuses on using technology to solve global issues and advancing STEM education among underserved communities. Her dedication to equity and accessibility in science and engineering motivates me to advocate for diversity initiatives and mentorship programs that empower underrepresented groups in STEM. Mae Jemison's career and unwavering dedication to innovation and inclusivity inspires me daily as I pursue my goals in engineering. Her legacy teaches me the importance of perseverance and community engagement to overcome challenges and make a meaningful impact. With Mae Jemison as a role model, I am confident that I can contribute to the field of engineering by pushing boundaries, fostering diversity, and creating solutions that benefit society as a whole.
    College Showdown Scholarship