My name is Nia Brown, and I am currently majoring in Computer Science at American University. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. This insatiable curiosity moved me towards a Computer Science major, and with every line of code I write, that fascination continues. My passion for programming extends far beyond the screen. The prospect of creating my own video game is exciting, but what truly interest me is the fact that code is the universal language behind a vast array of modern technology. From the websites we browse to the self-driving cars of tomorrow, programming is the invisible backbone that brings these ideas to fruition. It's this power to create and problem-solve that makes coding such a fulfilling pursuit. Every obstacle overcome, every bug conquered, feels like a mini victory, a testament to the power of logical thinking and perseverance. My love for coding extends to a need to understand the "why" behind the "how." I'm a visual and hands-on learner, so simply memorizing lines of code wouldn't be enough. Instead, I enjoy drawing parallels, sketching out algorithms, and utilizing writing to solidify new concepts. This multi-faceted approach allows me to not only write code but also understand its deeper meaning and purpose. Leadership, for me, isn't about barking orders or seeking the spotlight. It's about inspiring others to embrace their own potential. This summer, I plan to leverage online coding communities to not only hone my skills but also to mentor and collaborate with budding programmers. Sharing knowledge and offering offering guidance in the form of tutoring, adds to my desire to lead. My ultimate dream, however, lies at the intersection of my passion for code and my yearning to make a positive impact. Imagine a world where homes are not just shelters but intelligent guardians, utilizing machine learning to bolster security. Security systems that can differentiate between a playful pet and a potential intruder? Or perhaps systems capable of predicting and preventing household hazards like a burst pipe or carbon monoxide leak? These are the kinds of solutions that drive me forward, the possibilities that keep me up late nights tinkering with code. By harnessing the power of machine learning, I believe I can contribute to the creation of safer, more secure living spaces. I plan on using my education to leave an impact on the world in many ways. My academic goals are laser-focused on acquiring the in-depth knowledge and expertise that will allow me to translate my ideas into reality. I envision myself delving deeper into advanced programming languages, delving into the intricacies of algorithms, and eventually specializing in the field of machine learning. The world of technology is constantly evolving, and I'm determined to be at the forefront of that change. The development and change of technology doesn't have to be frightening. Whether it's through the development of intelligent home security systems or the invention of something entirely new, I want my work to leave a lasting, positive impact on the world. This is more than just a career goal; it's a driving force, a constant reminder of the potential that lies within a single line of code.

As a black woman, especially a black woman pursuing the STEM field, I have unfortunately experienced the stereotypical setbacks and micro-aggressions that many other women who look like me face. From people treating my natural afro as if it's a petting zoo to hearing my white classmates openly say the n-word, I have realized that it is more important than ever to uplift myself and demonstrate that I am more than my hair and what people see on T.V. In a weird way, I am almost thankful for those experiences, as they have shaped who I am today. Black women such as Katherine Johnson have inspired me to be more than the "token black woman" and to always focus on what I'm interested in, regardless of whether or not it's something that "black women usually don't do”. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a second interest of mine is Artificial Intelligence (AI), and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the homeowner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the homeowner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Another impact I plan to make that will positively benefit the world by designing a tool (whether it has to do with lowering carbon emissions, cleaning up ocean waste, etc.) to make sure the earth is a habitable planet for centuries to come. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever-changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status.

My name is Nia Brown and I am currently majoring in Computing & Security Technology. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as Python, Java, and Javascript (among others). Most recently, a project I worked on that I was passionate about was creating a password manager in C. Essentially, the user would input a password, and depending on certain parameters, such as not allowing special characters, the code would either accept or decline the user's password. I feel as though coding is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem-solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. Additionally, coding is behind a large amount of machinery and tools that we use today. For example, everyday technology such as Amazon Alexa, modern home security systems, and autonomous cars are built on the foundation of programming, and I find it intriguing that people can use code to create numerous things. A mixture of hands-on building and computer programming is especially captivating to me because I am a visual learner and a “tactile” learner. Understanding concepts and incorporating my learning styles with drawing and writing to reinforce new ideas is vital . This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem- solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. An impact I plan to make that will positively benefit the world includes making sure that future technological advancements don’t destroy the Earth in the process. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever-changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status.

Community involvement is one of the cores of cultural understanding. By working with and learning from those around us, regardless of what they look like, we build the bridge of empathy and compassion. In my own life, I have helped my local community in a few ways. I enjoy volunteering for organizations, whether it took place at my high school or outside of my high school. During high school, every Monday and Wednesday from 3:15-5:00pm, I participated in La Amistad, an after school tutoring program. During that time, we assisted children with their homework (at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta), and once that was complete, we played games. The tutors were high school students in Atlanta who liked to help latino elementary school students with their math and english skills. Initially, I noticed that assisting and tutoring the children in La Amistad was easier than the first time, primarily because I was a little more used to the order in which we (as students) help the children. It felt gratifying to answer any questions the kids had about their homework assignments and whenever I had any questions, I asked my fellow classmates who have been in the program longer than I have and they answered them helpfully. I began tutoring in sophomore year, and overtime I noticed that I have improved on my planning skills during La Amistad. For example, I developed a more structured plan on what should be done per session, one of which included making certain goals for what I want for the students to accomplish (ex. homework, reading, etc.). I have also noticed that it helps to encourage and motivate the students to do their homework during the La Amistad tutoring session so that they have less to do once they get home. The teachers often thanked us for volunteering to assist the children, as every child showed improvement in their testing scores, whether it is math, science, or english. Playing a role in their success is an enlightening experience, because we played a part in the development of their education. Additionally, in my high school there were student-led volunteer/community service clubs. I was a member of one called the GVP (Global Village Project). The GVP is a nonprofit middle school for refugee young women. The goal was to conduct a supply drive, bringing items such as umbrellas, post-its, pens, socks, hand lotion, toiletries, etc. to put in the various GVP boxes around the campus. After packaging the items in boxes, we then sent them to refugee women all around the world to better their community. After being involved in the GVP supply drive, it felt good to know that our actions were benefiting those in need, as well as recognizing the privilege we (the students in the CAS group) have as students who attend AIS (Atlanta International School) who have never experienced what it is like to be a refugee. On March 14, 2020, I worked with a representative from the Atlanta BeltLine (Alice Weston, Program Manager, Atlanta BeltLine Partnership) and a Park Pride representative (Victoria Burgos) in relationship to sustainability and waste management control. I collected and properly disposed of trash along the Eastside trail in order to clean up the trail/park as a whole and make it more attractive to those who use (or will be using) the trail. It felt instantly gratifying and productive to clean up the BeltLine in my community and is a project I will never forget. The main change I want to see in my personal community is a renewed interest in learning from children in low-income families. Education is one of the most important things that a human can receive, and by making education seem more appealing to the youth, hopefully that in turn will encourage younger children to want to learn and pursue higher education.

My name is Nia Brown and I am currently majoring in Computing & Security Technology. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript (among others). This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem- solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a second interest of mine is Artificial Intelligence (AI), and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Another impact I plan to make that will benefit the world in a positive way includes making sure that future technological advancements don’t destroy the Earth in the process. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status. By learning how to code, I believe I can benefit the world in a positive way by designing a tool (whether it has to do with lowering carbon emissions, cleaning up ocean waste, etc.) to make sure the earth is a habitable planet for centuries to come.

To be independent means to have complete control over one's actions and ideas. Being independent has a few impacts on me, primarily with how I deal/dealt with stress in school. Being independent in my education taught me how to be a more resilient and confident person, inside and outside of the classroom. Without the aid of my teachers and family, I definitely would be a different person today. Seeing how those around me have always been determined to help me succeed made me want to work even harder to make sure I never let anyone down. Being in different classroom environments with diverse teachers taught me how to embrace all kinds of people and cultures, regardless of race, class, ethnicity, or sexuality. In turn, this paved the way for how I view people outside of the somewhat small “bubble” I have lived in my whole life. Because of the school environments I have grown up in, my education showed me that learning doesn’t always have to take place in a classroom. In my middle school science class, I learned more about plants and insects by taking small field trips to our community garden than I might have by only reading books and watching videos. Finally, I also learned that one must balance self-criticism with approval. Despite critiquing every aspect of my work, I am still aware of the hours of determination I put into the task. By inspecting every element of my work, it makes me appreciate the work of others, as I know that they have put the same (if not more) amount of effort, not to mention time, into what they have created.

Persistence is a quality that I most value in myself. The reason has a lot to do with my upbringing and the environments that my parents but my brother and I in from a very young age. Since age three, my parents have made sure to place us in educational environments that encourage learning and being around different cultures. Persistence is a key characteristic that I try to apply when I come across difficult obstacles in my daily life. An academic example of persistence was in my IB chemistry class. We were learning about Thermodynamics and I had previously not performed well on the last units test. Chemistry had always proven to be one of my more challenging subjects, and I wanted to improve my understanding of the subject. The solution to doing well on the upcoming test was not as straightforward as it seemed. To prepare for the upcoming Thermodynamics test, I changed my study habits, primarily by attending after school tutoring, answering online practice IB-style questions, and re-reading the provided study guide. Every day when I came home from school I would revise my notes and answer practice questions until I fully understood the concepts. When test day came, I felt prepared and confident in what I studied. As soon as the paper was handed to me, I noticed that the majority of the questions connected to what I had been studying and I felt relieved. My teacher grades quickly, and within the hour I found out that I got a 6, which is equivalent to an A-. I was elated, and texted my parents and my brother the great news. The teacher commented that I had done a great job on the test, and I definitely showed my grasp on Thermodynamics. Overcoming that educational barrier is a feeling that I will remember for a long time. It taught me how to manage my time wisely and in an effective manner, and learn specific studying habits that will help me in future tests. To achieve something that I had worked hard for showed me that the sky is not the limit; only a point of view. Knowing that I had made my parents proud felt gratifying, due to the hard work they put in to helping me attend my school. Ironically, some of the disparities I have faced in my life have pointed to straightforward solutions, primarily in the way I learn and try to better myself, mentally and physically. Facing challenges in my education taught me how to be a more resilient and confident person, inside and outside of the classroom. Without the aid of my teachers and family, I definitely would be a different person today. Seeing how those around me have always been determined to help me succeed made me want to work even harder to make sure I never let anyone down. Being in different classroom environments with diverse teachers taught me how to embrace all kinds of people and cultures, regardless of race, class, ethnicity, or sexuality. Because of the school environments I have grown up in, my education showed me that learning doesn’t always have to take place in a classroom. In my middle school science class, I learned more about plants and insects by taking small field trips to our community garden than I might have by only reading books and watching videos. By using all of the resources given to me in my educational career, hopefully I will be able to lead a happy and prosperous life that will in turn, assist my family in the future.

I have been interested in finances and securing my financial freedom for around three years now. During that time, I have received a few helpful pieces of financial advice from financial analysts experts. The first one has to do with investing in stocks. I learned that, in terms of investing, since I'm young I can take on more risk and invest in single stocks as the returns are usually higher than index funds which track the performance of the S&P 500. I have to monitor a basket of single stocks though, whereas index funds can be used to just invest money and let it sit for many decades. Hearing this really inspired me to do further research and see which companies I will be investing in in the future. The second piece of advice was on credit cards. I am a college student, and I was advised to acquire a credit card with no annual fee and a good cash back or points system. I learned that I can do research on credit cards via YouTube channels or a CC reviewing website. It's best to build up your credit as much as possible before you aim to buy a house later on in life so that you can always get the lowest interest rates on loans. Personally, I am not a fan of loans and would prefer not to owe anyone any money. I believe by taking the aforementioned advice, I will be on the path to a more financial free future. Even though success isn't always determined by how much money one makes, it definitely can lead to more emotional and mental freedom as well.

A big problem facing the world right now is pollution and the depletion of the Earth's natural resources. From a young age, I have been committed to making sure that I design and create sustainable tools to better preserve the Earth and its atmosphere. At my IB high school, there was a mandatory project all sophomores must complete called the “Personal Project”. Essentially, the project was a student-centered exploration of whatever topic that interests them and is connected to any one of the learning goals of the MYP (Middle Years Programme). My interest in architecture and sustainability motivated me to combine those two interests for my project. I chose to design and create a semi self-sustainable house that demonstrates eco-friendly alternatives to preserve natural resources while implementing human-made tools. Through my work, I also wanted others to understand just how important it is to take care of the environment, both in and outside their homes. I wanted for my project to impact people’s everyday use and consumption of human-made and environmental resources, and develop new found knowledge about home sustainability. My house model consisted of a basement, where the geothermal heating and whole-house water filters would be installed, a first floor, a second floor, and a roof, where the solar panels are attached. Each bathroom included high-efficiency shower heads, whose purpose is to cut down on the amount of water used in conventional showers. By seeing my house model in the exhibition, I wanted for my product to inspire people to begin to make small changes in their everyday decisions regarding consumption, whether that includes recycling their water bottles and cardboard boxes, or turning off the water while brushing their teeth.

My goal in education is to use all the resources provided to me in my educational career to further assist myself and others to make the world a more empathetic place. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript (among others). This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem-solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a second interest of mine is Artificial Intelligence (AI), and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Another impact I plan to make that will benefit the world in a positive way includes making sure that future technological advancements don’t destroy the Earth in the process. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status. By learning how to code, I believe I can benefit the world in a positive way by designing a tool (whether it has to do with lowering carbon emissions, cleaning up ocean waste, etc.) to make sure the earth is a habitable planet for centuries to come.

My name is Nia Brown and I am currently majoring in Computing & Security Technology. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript (among others). This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem- solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a second interest of mine is Artificial Intelligence (AI), and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Another impact I plan to make that will benefit the world in a positive way includes making sure that future technological advancements don’t destroy the Earth in the process. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status. By learning how to code, I believe I can benefit the world in a positive way by designing a tool (whether it has to do with lowering carbon emissions, cleaning up ocean waste, etc.) to make sure the earth is a habitable planet for centuries to come.

The main change I want to see in my personal community is a renewed interest in learning from children in low-income families. Education is one of the most important things that a human can receive, and by making education seem more appealing to the youth, hopefully that in turn will encourage younger children to want to learn and pursue higher education. I enjoyed volunteering for organizations, whether it took place at my high school or outside of my high school. Every Monday and Wednesday from 3:15-5:00pm, I participated in La Amistad, an after school tutoring program. During that time, we assisted children with their homework (at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta), and once that was complete, we played games. The tutors were high school students in Atlanta who liked to help latino elementary school students with their math and english skills. Initially, I noticed that assisting and tutoring the children in La Amistad was easier than the first time, primarily because I was a little more used to the order in which we (as students) help the children. It felt gratifying to answer any questions the kids had about their homework assignments and whenever I had any questions, I asked my fellow classmates who have been in the program longer than I have and they answered them helpfully. I began tutoring in sophomore year, and overtime I noticed that I have improved on my planning skills during La Amistad. For example, I developed a more structured plan on what should be done per session, one of which included making certain goals for what I want for the students to accomplish (ex. homework, reading, etc.). I have also noticed that it helps to encourage and motivate the students to do their homework during the La Amistad tutoring session so that they have less to do once they get home. The teachers often thanked us for volunteering to assist the children, as every child showed improvement in their testing scores, whether it is math, science, or english. Playing a role in their success is an enlightening experience, because we played a part in the development of their education. Additionally, in my high school there were student-led volunteer/community service clubs. I was a member of one called the GVP (Global Village Project). The GVP is a nonprofit middle school for refugee young women. The goal was to conduct a supply drive, bringing items such as umbrellas, post-its, pens, socks, hand lotion, toiletries, etc. to put in the various GVP boxes around the campus. After packaging the items in boxes, we then sent them to refugee women all around the world to better their community. After being involved in the GVP supply drive, it felt good to know that our actions were benefiting those in need, as well as recognizing the privilege we (the students in the CAS group) have as students who attend AIS (Atlanta International School) who have never experienced what it is like to be a refugee. Finally, On March 14, 2020, I worked with a representative from the Atlanta BeltLine (Alice Weston, Program Manager, Atlanta BeltLine Partnership) and a Park Pride representative (Victoria Burgos) in relationship to sustainability and waste management control. I collected and properly disposed of trash along the Eastside trail in order to clean up the trail/park as a whole and make it more attractive to those who use (or will be using) the trail. It felt instantly gratifying and productive to clean up the BeltLine in my community and is a project I will never forget.

My name is Nia Brown and I am currently majoring in Computing & Security Technology. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript (among others). This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem-solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. One of the biggest influences in my life is Katherine Johnson. Johnson was a prominent black female figure in NASA. She made the calculations for the 1969 Apollo 11 flight to the moon. Johnson was a groundbreaking African American woman who was a proficient physicist and NASA mathematician. She was one of the first black women to not only take part in important calculations, such as “Freedom 7” (the spacecraft that put the first U.S astronaut in space, Alan B. Shepard, Jr.), she also helped instigate the use of computers to form similar tasks. Johnson was a courageous and very intelligent woman who had to face adversities, one example being blatant racism (inside and outside of work) in her daily life. Witnessing her defying stereotypes about black women in America by just using her computation skills, would feel extremely empowering to see if I were alive at the time. Even though I don't plan on being a physicist or mathematician, I do plan on working in either the computer science or artificial intelligence field. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a dream job of mine would be in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) field, and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay!

"I don’t have a feeling of inferiority. Never had. I’m as good as anybody, but no better.” – Katherine Johnson, Mathematician This quote means a lot to me primarily because I am a minority woman interested in the STEM field. I believe women should pursue computing for a few reasons. Besides the fact that STEM, let alone computer programming fields, are a vastly male-dominated industry, women should feel comfortable and safe sharing their ideas and making positive impacts within the technology field. Additionally, by increasing the amount of women in the field, others will see that women are just as capable as men to code and solve potential programming issues. Unfortunately, when most people think of a programmer, they tend to automatically imagine a man typing away at a computer. I believe that it is important to shift that narrative and normalize seeing women in computing occupations, especially since the world as we know it is drastically moving towards a tech-dominated future. In this field, women can provide alternate solutions and ideas that others might think of. Woman can offer a more balanced viewpoint to female gender and technology issues (i.e. Artificial Intelligence) and share their personal experiences with discrimination, gender bias, and multiple other issues that most men haven’t/won’t face. To encourage women to join this field, I would tell them the stories of previous strong women who were in the STEM field who showed people that intelligence has nothing to do with skin color or race. For one, Katherine Johnson was a prominent black female figure in NASA. She made the calculations for the 1969 Apollo 11 flight to the moon. Johnson was a groundbreaking African American woman who was a proficient physicist and NASA mathematician. She was one of the first black women to not only take part in important calculations, such as “Freedom 7” (the spacecraft that put the first U.S astronaut in space, Alan B. Shepard, Jr.), she also helped instigate the use of computers to form similar tasks. Johnson was a courageous and very intelligent woman who had to face adversities, one example being blatant racism (inside and outside of work) in her daily life. Witnessing her defying stereotypes about black women in America by just using her computation skills, would feel extremely empowering to see if I were alive at the time.

My name is Nia Brown and I am currently majoring in Computing & Security Technology. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript (among others). This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem-solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a second interest of mine is Artificial Intelligence (AI), and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Another impact I plan to make that will benefit the world in a positive way includes making sure that future technological advancements don’t destroy the Earth in the process. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status.

I recently got into my dream university (American University) as a transfer student. Unfortunately, their financial aid package was less than desirable. I would love to use this scholarship to pay off a portion of my current student debt. Ideally, I would prefer not to take out loans, and ultimately be debt-free by the time I'm 26. Due to my family’s financial situation, we are not able to realistically afford to pay off the majority of my tuition at an undergraduate level. This scholarship would ease the pressure of both myself and my parents to pay off my loans. From a young age, my family has reminded me about how fortunate my brother and I are to be afforded the education that others wish for. Our parents have sacrificed a lot of their wants and needs to invest in learning opportunities for us. I have always recognized this and my plan is to make sure that I can "pay my parents back" both literally and metaphorically by doing the best I can in school and finding other streams of income so that I can graduate with the least amount of student loans possible. This scholarship would mean a lot to me and my family. Thank you for taking the time to read my submission!

My name is Nia Brown and I am currently majoring in Computing & Security Technology. My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript (among others). This summer, I plan on using coding websites to reinforce my computer programming skills. I enjoy programming because it is the backbone of a lot of modern technology, whether that includes websites, autonomous self-driving cars, robots, or bitcoin. Since I like to code, I feel as though this is a productive use of my time, as I am learning new things and problem-solving techniques, as well as learning how to (eventually) create entertaining online games. The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a second interest of mine is Artificial Intelligence (AI), and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. Another impact I plan to make that will benefit the world in a positive way includes making sure that future technological advancements don’t destroy the Earth in the process. In 10 years, I see myself as someone who is focused and driven not only in terms of my work career, but in helping those around me as well. I see myself as someone who is debt-free and financially intelligent, as well as someone who is deeply invested in the STEM field. As technology is ever changing, I can’t wait to see how it progresses 30 years from now, seeing as how it has transformed greatly since the late 20th century. Without technology, the way we learn and interact with one another wouldn’t be the same; emails would be nonexistent, communication between people overseas would take a much longer time without mobile phones etc. I believe it is important to put the technology that is created to “good use” by making sure it has a positive impact on humanity and benefits everyone around us, regardless of their race, religion, or socioeconomic status. By learning how to code, I believe I can benefit the world in a positive way by designing a tool (whether it has to do with lowering carbon emissions, cleaning up ocean waste, etc.) to make sure the earth is a habitable planet for centuries to come.

My interest in technology stemmed from a young age, as I was always interested in computers and electronics, and how they were built. Within the vast field of computer science, I am focused on computer programming in languages such as Javascript, CSS, and Python (among others). The fundamentals can be used to become a software developer, systems analyst, or a video game developer, among others. A mixture of hands-on building and computer programming is especially captivating to me because I am a visual learner and a “tactile” learner. Doing so assists me in making sure my ideas are easy to understand and visualize. By learning how to code, I believe I can benefit the world in a positive way by designing a tool (whether it has to do with lowering carbon emissions, cleaning up ocean waste, etc.) to make sure the earth is a habitable planet for centuries to come. After receiving my degree, I plan to make a great impact within the Computing & Security Technology field. For one, a dream job of mine would be in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) field, and I would love to develop software and machinery that uses AI to not only make remote databases secure, but homes as well. It would be great to create an AI software that is even better than the current “smart home” security systems, such as Ring and Nest. My software would connect the cameras to the locking systems (i.e. doors, windows, etc.), and if the home was broken into, use facial recognition software to identify the intruder(s) and send the I.D. information to the local police station immediately, alerting them (and the home owner) that someone has broken into the home. Identifying the intruder within seconds of the entering the home would greatly reduce the time it normally takes for the police to locate the intruder, and an alert would immediately show up on the home owner’s phone (or tablet) regardless of where they are, to update them on what’s going on. I feel as though I am the best candidate for this scholarship because of my interest in learning and diverse approach to solving problems. I believe it is important to create inclusive and open environments for people of all backgrounds to thrive in. In the computer science field, women can provide alternate solutions and ideas that others might think of. Personally, I could offer a more balanced viewpoint to female gender and technology issues (i.e. Artificial Intelligence) and share my personal experiences with discrimination, gender bias, and multiple other issues that most men haven’t/won’t face. By having both male and female input, this can lead to better problem-solving abilities. By showcasing female tech leaders, it will hopefully encourage more girls of all kinds to go after their interests and careers in tech. It is important to make sure that young girls have strong role models of other successful women in STEM to look up to.

The pandemic has affected my life in a few positive ways since March 2020. For one, my freshman year at college was completely remote, and due to that I was able to save a considerable amount on college tuition, which is always a bonus. Additionally, since I was in my room the entirety of my academic school year, I was able to really focus on my studies and work on achieving the best grades possible. My grades and testing scores improved greatly, and I'm glad I was able to learn new studying techniques that I can use in the future once I return on campus in the fall. Finally, the pandemic has shown me who my real friends are. Within the first few months of the pandemic, I noticed that people I had once considered "friends" really weren't my friends in the first place. The level of communication (i.e. text, social media, etc.) decreased greatly and I hardly heard from them. However, I am glad that it happened because I think that everything happens for a reason, and I learned that I didn't lose a "friend", I just never had one in the first place.

Katherine Johnson was a prominent black female figure in NASA. She made the calculations for the 1969 Apollo 11 flight to the moon. Johnson was a groundbreaking African American woman who was a proficient physicist and NASA mathematician. She was one of the first black women to not only take part in important calculations, such as “Freedom 7” (the spacecraft that put the first U.S astronaut in space, Alan B. Shepard, Jr.), she also helped instigate the use of computers to form similar tasks.

To me, legacy means honor. When a legacy is passed down, for example, I feel as though that showcases a form of honor being bestowed to the next generation, as well as a heavy layer of trust. In terms of my upbringing, I have been very fortunate with the parents I have. From a young age, my family has reminded me about how fortunate my brother and I are to be afforded the education that others wish for. Our parents have sacrificed a lot of their wants and needs to invest in learning opportunities for us. I have always recognized this and strive to submit my best work to teachers. An academic example of facing personal disparities was in my IB chemistry class. We were learning about Thermodynamics and I had previously not performed well on the last units test. Chemistry had always proven to be one of my more challenging subjects, and I wanted to improve my understanding of the subject. Every day when I came home from school I would revise my notes and answer practice questions until I fully understood the concepts. When test day came, I felt prepared and confident in what I studied. As soon as the paper was handed to me, I noticed that the majority of the questions connected to what I had been studying and I felt relieved. My teacher grades quickly, and within the hour I found out that I got a 6, which is equivalent to an A-. I was elated, and texted my parents and my brother the great news. The teacher commented that I had done a great job on the test, and I definitely showed my grasp on Thermodynamics. Overcoming that educational barrier is a feeling that I will remember for a long time. To achieve something that I had worked hard for showed me that the sky is not the limit; only a point of view. Knowing that I had made my parents proud felt gratifying, due to the hard work they put in to helping me attend my school. Ironically, some of the disparities I have faced in my life have pointed to straightforward solutions, primarily in the way I learn and try to better myself, mentally and physically. By using all of the resources given to me in my educational career, hopefully I will be able to lead a happy and prosperous life that will in turn, assist my family in the future. Facing challenges in my education taught me how to be a more resilient and confident person, inside and outside of the classroom. Without the aid of my teachers and family, I definitely would be a different person today. Seeing how those around me have always been determined to help me succeed made me want to work even harder to make sure I never let anyone down. Being in different classroom environments with diverse teachers taught me how to embrace all kinds of people and cultures, regardless of race, class, ethnicity, or sexuality. In turn, this paved the way for how I view people outside of the somewhat small “bubble” I have lived in my whole life. Because of the school environments I have grown up in, my education showed me that learning doesn’t always have to take place in a classroom. By inspecting every element of my work, it makes me appreciate the work of others, as I know that they have put the same (if not more) amount of effort, not to mention time, into what they have created.

As a black woman, let alone a black woman pursuing the STEM field, I have unfortunately experienced the stereotypical setbacks and microaggressions that many other women who look like me face. From people treating my natural afro as if it's a petting zoo to hearing my white classmates openly say the n-word, I have realized that it is more important than ever to uplift myself and demonstrate that I am more than my hair and what people see on T.V. In a weird way, I am almost thankful for those experiences, as they have shaped who I am today. Young black women such as Yara Shahidi and Coco Gauff have inspired me to be more than the "token black woman" and to always focus on what I'm interested in, regardless of whether or not it's something that "black women usually don't do". My mom has always encouraged me to be proud of my 4C hair, and I'm so grateful that I grew up in a household that promoted black intelligence and encouraged me to always be myself. In terms of social activism, I would love to focus primarily on black women in STEM fields, and how important it is to see women like us in these fields. Black Women should pursue computing for a few reasons. Besides the fact that STEM, let alone computer programming fields, are a vastly male-dominated industry, women should feel comfortable and safe sharing their ideas and making positive impacts within the technology field. Additionally, by increasing the amount of women in the field, others will see that women are just as capable as men to code and solve potential programming issues. Unfortunately, when most people think of a programmer, they tend to automatically imagine a man typing away at a computer. I believe that it is important to shift that narrative and normalize seeing women in computing occupations, especially since the world as we know it is drastically moving towards a tech-dominated future. To encourage women to join this field, I would tell them the stories of previous strong women who were in the STEM field who showed people that intelligence has nothing to do with skin color or race. For one, Katherine Johnson was a prominent black female figure in NASA. She made the calculations for the 1969 Apollo 11 flight to the moon. Johnson was a groundbreaking African American woman who was a proficient physicist and NASA mathematician. She was one of the first black women to not only take part in important calculations, such as “Freedom 7” (the spacecraft that put the first U.S astronaut in space, Alan B. Shepard, Jr.), she also helped instigate the use of computers to form similar tasks. Johnson was a courageous and very intelligent woman who had to face adversities, one example being blatant racism (inside and outside of work) in her daily life. Witnessing her defying stereotypes about black women in America by just using her computation skills is very inspiring.