At age fourteen, I saw technology fail those most in need. My younger brother dying from gun violence devastated my family, but I came to the conclusion that those communities suffering the effects of violent deaths were lacking in technology that would help prevent it. This event instilled in me a mission and a purpose: I had to study STEM fields and apply my skills for the betterment of underrepresented communities. As a Jamaican black female, I have always found myself standing out and being the sole individual of my race in advanced chemistry labs, coding boot camps, research facilities, and the likes. The stats show that women of color comprise only about 5% of the STEM field workforce. This didn't discourage me; rather, this gave me even more motivation to succeed.This has been the case as is illustrated in the Software Engineering Internship in the Benedict College SURI Program, where instead of following instructions to the letter, I spearheaded research by applying Python and Topological Data Analysis in making predictions about complex data patterns, information which I conveyed to IT and academic experts. The internship experience made me realize that I belonged despite having doubts in some instances during the process. However, while at Finastra, my learning extended even more. Learning to write XML and C# code in designing software testing systems helped me learn that being technically competent was not enough; it was also important to have a holistic understanding of how code became products which met people's needs. However, the most remarkable experiences I have gained have been outside internships. In fact, I came up with conceptual models of applications intended to break down obstacles I myself had gone through. The purpose was to create platforms which would help disadvantaged college students reach the same milestones as others from better-placed communities regarding access to educational materials and local opportunities.Now as an incoming Ph.D. student in Computational Data Science and Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University, my goals have become even clearer. I want my Ph.D. studies to be oriented towards enhancing artificial intelligence in particular, to mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities of under-resourced communities. Contrary to popular belief, I chose this program not despite, but precisely because of its difficulty and complexity. In my case, finances will always be an honest barrier. Since I am an international student, there are very few scholarship programs open for me. This grant would not only help alleviate my financial struggles, but also prove that my vision of technology as a means for justice is worth fighting for.My dedication does not end when I graduate. In the next five years, I will set up a mentorship program to pair minority women at the beginning stages of their STEM careers with research and leadership opportunities. I will produce educational materials explaining artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to underserved communities. This is not an additional goal, but an essential part of who I am as a professional. Representation is not merely satisfying, but transformative. For young women of color to see themselves in the faces of those using science and technology to solve crucial problems gives them confidence to solve those problems as well. The ripple effect created by one individual influencing the lives of dozens, and then hundreds, of people is what I hope to leave behind. I am requesting your participation in this mission. This scholarship will help me graduate and ensure that cutting-edge technologies reach the communities who need them most quickly. We can bridge the gap between the technical expertise of our universities and the needs of marginalized communities.

Joining university studies in the United States as a first-generation international student has been challenging and fulfilling at the same time. I came to America full of hope and optimism; I knew I could build an entire life for myself through hard work and determination, and more importantly, make the lives of those around me better. I have known all along that this path is going to be challenging, but there is nothing that can stop me from taking this road if only I get the chance to do things my forefathers had not done yet. In my academic career, I have encountered numerous challenges. From having limited money at my disposal, trying to adapt to the new environment, learning the ways of higher education without parents' help, and the inability to benefit from some scholarships meant exclusively for domestic students – all of these were problems that I had to face at one point or another throughout the years. Yet, despite the struggles that I have experienced, I decided to persevere because I know the value of education and I will not let anything come between me and success. Some of the experiences that have affected me are when I lost my brother to gun violence. This experience changed me a lot because it made me more driven to make the world better by creating positive changes. My brother's death reminded me of how quickly things can change and made me more determined to work in a field where I could help people around the world by developing innovative and technological solutions. I will not let adversity prevent me from doing well, but rather motivate me even more. Being interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics stems from my desire to use technology to benefit people and change their lives all over the world. During my education process, I constantly tried to develop myself professionally and academically. In particular, as part of the Benedict College SURI program, I became a Software Engineer Intern and helped to analyze the collected information and perform predictive research with Python and topological data analysis in order to make presentations for IT professionals and researchers. In addition, I became a Software Developer Intern at Finastra and used my skills in programming languages such as XML and C#. My current pursuit of Ph.D. degree at the Computational Data Science and Engineering field of study at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is aimed at making significant contributions to innovations in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Data Science, with an aim to develop solutions with an intent to positively influence disadvantaged people with technology as well as enhance the visibility of Black international students and women in STEM areas. In addition to achieving my career-related objectives, I also have a mission of mentoring and encouraging other international and first generation students who are not quite sure if going to school would be beneficial to them as it would be for me. With an intention to encourage other people, I have learned that nothing is impossible with hard work and proper education. Being able to study in the United States has provided me with opportunities of becoming a more resilient person both socially and academically as I got to know more about myself and what I could become in the future.

Being a mother has forever altered my life. With everything I do, my aim is to create a brighter future for my five-year-old child. It has never been an easy feat being a single mother and trying to further my education at the same time. Nonetheless, through all of the challenges I have faced, my resolve has grown stronger each and every day. Sometimes, it feels like a challenge to juggle school, finance, parenting, and other obligations. As a student working in the rigorous field of STEM, there are times when I have to study late into the night to prepare for the future. While I know some students can solely dedicate their efforts to themselves, I am not among them. Every goal I set is an obligation for another person who relies on me. What sets me apart from everyone else and makes me the most suitable recipient of this award is not only the high level of my aspiration but my resiliency as well. Although I had financial difficulties and problems as a single mother, I still kept on with my studies as I was aware that giving up was not something I would ever do. My child is my biggest inspiration. In moments when everything seems difficult, I think about the fact that what I do is important not just for myself but for my child too. As an African-American female in the field of STEM, I have encountered numerous challenges as far as my representation in this area is concerned. There are very few black women in the sphere of technology and data science, and there are even fewer single mothers who continue getting educated in this environment. Nonetheless, I have kept working hard because I wanted to teach my kid that nothing should be a barrier in his/her life. Throughout my academic life, I have endeavored to get experience in both technology and research. I was part of the Benedict College SURI Program, where I acted as a Software Engineer Intern and utilized Python programming skills and data analysis skills to conduct research. Also, I served as a Software Developer Intern at Finastra, where I wrote XML and C# programming codes. Through these experiences, I developed an appreciation for technology and got confirmation that I can be successful in STEM despite the challenges I face. I am currently enrolled in my Ph.D. program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University where I study Computational Data Science and Engineering, because I would like to pursue a career through which I will use technology to make a positive impact and ensure security for my daughter. Winning the scholarship will relieve some pressure on me as a mother trying to balance the responsibilities of my studies with motherhood. However, what is more important is that I will have an assurance that all the sacrifices I am making each day are worthwhile. The driving force behind all the things I do – my ‘why’ is quite straightforward: it is my child. I want my child to know that dreams can come true despite all the obstacles in our way.

Having been raised as a Black international student from Jamaica who would grow up to work in STEM, my experience has been marked by persistence, a drive to serve and create more possibilities through technology. From childhood, I realized that education was a highly effective tool that could enable someone to change their destiny and the destiny of their community. However, I have also come across firsthand examples showing that financial constraints, lack of role models, and even personal tragedies could become barriers that were never acknowledged. My brother died from gun violence. This event completely reshaped my understanding of life, making me take a different road in the future. Resilience and having a lot of determination have become an important part of who I am. Additionally, it made me want to acquire new abilities to allow me to assist in creating better societies. Moving to the USA from Jamaica in search of higher education has also played its role in forming my identity. Immigrating to a new country and striving to accomplish my objectives as an international student meant that at some point, I had to struggle by myself. It was through all those hardships that I fell in love with STEM because of its effect on people's lives due to the application of technologies in daily routines. Among other things, what fascinated me were the areas related to computer science, including software development, cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence. Since college days, I've been looking for new ways to develop my technical abilities as well as make contributions to my society.For instance, when I worked as a Software Engineering Intern in a group in the Benedict College SURI Program, we were able to undertake research using Python and Topological Data Analysis in an attempt to predict future data points. While doing this internship, I even had the chance to present our research work to the IT professionals and researchers. This internship also helped me realize how important it is to have both technical and communication skills. Another internship opportunity that I had in Finastra saw me working as a Software Developer where I coded in XML and C#. Service and Leadership are two qualities that I have. Over the years, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others through mentoring others in college, making connections, and coming up with innovative ways in which technology can be used to aid communities that lack these benefits. In addition, I have thought of ways that we can make applications that could enable college students find educational material, conduct transactions at their campuses, and interact with the communities easily. My objective is to harness STEM knowledge not only to create successful projects but also ensure accessibility and inclusiveness in doing so. I will be joining the Ph.D. program in Computational Data Science and Engineering at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Through this program, I will be gaining more skills in data science, artificial intelligence, and technologies. Besides, with this skill set, I want to venture into leadership roles that will include both research and industries. As a black female in STEM, it is important for me to mentor minority students. As we move forward, I wish to be an enabler of innovation and help create a way to ensure success of minorities in STEM programs. This will include mentoring young black women, fighting for diversity initiatives, and doing something that will impact the larger community positively. From experience gained so far, I have understood that challenges do not determine what the future holds, but rather determination, service, and purpose.

Being an international student, being a Black woman in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and now being a Ph.D. student, comes with many struggles, yet one of the most significant barriers that I had to surpass is dealing with lack of finances as a barrier in pursuing higher education in the areas of technology and academia. Many times, the financial burden of having to pay tuition and other living expenses made me question myself whether I could carry on with my academic journey. As an immigrant from Jamaica, I knew coming into college that getting a higher education would entail sacrifice. From day one, I knew that it would take a lot of hard work and time management skills to do well in my academics, to be gainfully employed, and to participate in various internships, all in order to pay for the upcoming semesters. In the process of being a STEM major, I had to spend a lot of time doing schoolwork, completing my projects, learning new technical concepts, and doing my own research, all while struggling financially. The challenge which has been particularly hard for me to overcome has been attempting to acquire relevant professional experience in times when finances are uncertain. Internships are important in STEM careers, however, there are often not enough financial resources provided by the employers or one would need to move in order to be able to obtain such professional experience. Despite this, I kept pushing myself to improve as I believed that these experiences will influence my future career path. While studying, I was fortunate to have gained professional experience at Benedict College SURI Program working as a Software Engineer Intern, where I researched different techniques of predictive modelling using Python and topological data analysis. Furthermore, I was able to work as a Software Developer Intern at Finastra, during which time I wrote XML and C# code to test different software systems. These two internships contributed significantly to my love for computer technologies and data science. They helped me understand the significance of having financial stability in order to gain professional experience while being a STEM student. For instance, Dr. Comert and Dr.Begshaw has helped me overcome these challenges by believing in me as an aspiring researcher and STEM professional and helping my academic endeavors. Due to his guidance and belief, I continued with what seemed out of reach before. In addition to mentoring, family members too have played a significant role in motivating me through this challenging journey. Despite being far from home, they have offered me necessary emotional strength and motivation to pursue my objectives. I have chosen to pursue Ph.D. in Computational Data Science and Engineering at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University because I want to make a difference in the fields of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science, and encourage minorities to pursue a career in STEM. Such a scholarship can assist me in easing the financial burden of earning a doctoral degree, giving me additional time to work on research, innovations, and mentoring. This will not only benefit me, but also inspire other underrepresented students facing the same challenges in their educational pursuit.

The most painful thing that has ever happened in my life was the death of my brother due to gun violence. For a very long time, I could hardly bear the grief; how could such a full-of-life individual leave the world in such a short time? However, as time went by, I came to realize that even though I couldn't change what happened, I could decide what to make of the pain. That realization became a tipping point in my life and shaped not just who I am today but also what path I've chosen for my life. Grief taught me empathy. Before my brother's passing, I did not understand how one feels when one is broken but has to keep going. Nowadays, I can see pain in others even when they hide it. I have learned how to listen, comfort, and be patient. I use my story to help others in need-especially those young people who have lost loved ones and those growing up in environments that have been touched by violence. I share my experiences to remind them that they can still have hope, their pain does not define them, and after tragedy, healing can take place. This experience also shifted my understanding of purpose. It made me want to do work that matters, that helps others grow and move forward. That's one of the major reasons I chose technology and education as my career choice. I want to create opportunities and tools that empower others-especially those from underserved communities-to learn, build skills, and envision a life beyond their circumstances. Whether it is developing an app that connects students with resources or working on software for simplifying access to education, I want to use technology as a bridge-a catalyst to hope and progress. My grief has also made me resilient. When challenges come my way, I remind myself that I've already survived one of the most difficult moments in life. This motivates me to keep pushing, succeeding not just for myself but for the sake of my brother's memory. Though he may not be here physically, his spirit lives on and guides me day in and day out. But ultimately, my grief has become my strength. It's given me compassion, determination, and a sense of responsibility to turn my pain into purpose. Losing my brother taught me that life is fragile, but it also taught me that love and legacy are, too. I carry both with me in everything I do, using my story to help others find light even in their darkest moments.

I have been motivated from an early age to leverage technology to create an impact in the lives of individuals. Having lost my brother to gun violence and been raised in a society where community is held in high regard has made me believe that technology can be used for good. This has been my driving force in computer science and software development. My career goal is to become a skilled software engineer who creates applications that solve real-world problems—especially those that help the less fortunate gain access to education and opportunity. I’ve already begun working toward this by developing an app that connects students to campus resources, local businesses, and events, making college life easier and more connected. Through my experiences at Finastra, where I programmed in XML and C# to execute software functionality testing, and at Benedict College's SURI Program, where I used Python for predictive modeling, I've built a strong foundation in programming and data analysis. These experiences have further developed my technical and problem-solving skills and my passion for innovation. Long-term, I plan to continue building my skills in software engineering and cybersecurity so that I can build secure, reliable systems that empower communities and make lives better. Every project I undertake brings me a step closer to this goal.

In the situation stated, I would be able to bring to the table several skills, qualities of character, and leadership skills that might help to diffuse tension and create a more constructive environment. Even though I am not in charge, authority does stem from how I act and how I always model the kind of behavior that I require of others. The first quality I would count on is emotional intelligence. In a place where tempers are flared, the ability to know not only my feelings but also the feelings of the other person is crucial. By listening attentively and having empathy, I am able to diffuse situations before they escalate. Most quarrels escalate simply because people feel they are not heard. If I can get in and appreciate their perspective—without getting partisan—I can redirect the conversation back to solution or conflict. I also possess a level-headed and unflustered demeanor in situations where I am under pressure. While other individuals get flustered, holding my steady voice and relaxed body is a good example. Individuals react to the energy that is present, and if I can share patience and composure, it can settle down other individuals as well. The greatest style of leadership at times is not hot-headed but rather steady and consistent. Another skill that I possess is communication. Mutual respect and clear communication avoid misunderstandings, which tend to be the root of conflict in the first place. I would urge employees to articulate their concerns freely but respectfully, always addressing the subject rather than the individual. For example, using "I" statements such as, "I get upset when timelines are not fulfilled," instead of, "You always take so long to finish." In this way, I can start to shift the tone of interactions in the work center over time. Other than individual conversations, I can use my problem solving ability to direct conversations towards solutions instead of letting them get stuck in blame. If two employees cannot agree on something, I can ask questions that will push them forward: "What would be a resolution you could both live with?" or "How do we make this not happen again?" These kinds of questions center energy on solutions rather than on conflict. I would also employ my team-oriented mindset. It is easy for people to forget that we are all striving toward a shared goal when we are caught in the midst of individual battles. I can remind others that we win and lose together, and that time spent battling could be spent more productively to enhance our work. By concentrating on teamwork and respect for each other, I am able to shift the culture from competition and negativism to cooperation. Finally, I can use leading by example as my strongest influence. Lacking formal power, modeling being consistent, fair, respectful, and professional in my daily behavior sets an example. If I am kind to everyone, speak less than I listen, and avoid gossip and negativity, others will then follow eventually. Culture change starts with individual behaviors, and I can choose to be that example. Briefly, the skills that I would use to settle the workplace conflicts are emotional intelligence, being a cool head under pressure, communication, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and strength of leading by example. Even from a non-management position, these leadership skills can prove useful. While I cannot control others' behavior, I can control my behavior and utilize it to influence the environment in a positive manner. By demonstrating respect, encouraging calm discussion, and focusing on shared goals, I can reduce conflict and create a more productive, harmonious working environment.

Moving to the United States as an international student has been one of the bravest things I have ever done. Like Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien, I came here by myself, without my family's support, seeking education and opportunity. I learned that while this opens doors, it also has its share of challenges loneliness, financial difficulty, culture shock, and having to prove oneself in a new land. This however made me stronger rather than weaker. I see my story in Maggie's, and I want to live with the same courage and determination that marked her life. One way that I identify strongly with Maggie is in her courage in venturing into the unknown. Moving away from home to study abroad isn’t merely a matter of changing place; it is a matter of moving away from comfort, familiarity, and immediate family support. I too have had to learn to deal with a new educational system, figure out how to work and attend school, and construct a friend and mentor network from the ground up. There have been moments when the weight of these responsibilities has been overwhelming, but I remind myself why I started down this path to learn, to open doors for myself and others, and to positively affect the world through the use of technology. That determination sustains me. I also relate to Maggie's passion for learning and intellectual fearlessness. She was never afraid of a debate nor of challenging herself to learn anything new. Similarly, I have taken up the challenge of studying computer science and working with complex technologies like C#, XML, and Python. STEM, for me, is not just a question of technical problem-solving; it’s a question of using knowledge to empower people. Whether I'm debugging financial software for accuracy, making predictive models, or helping other students understand difficult concepts, I push myself to keep learning until I am confident enough to teach or apply that knowledge. Maggie's dedication to achieving expertise echoes my own desire to become a proficient professional woman in technology. Beyond the classroom, Maggie wasn’t afraid to engage in physical and personal challenges whether mountains to be climbed or new experiences in which to immerse herself. I recognize that same spirit within my own sporting background. I played sports as a kid and those experiences taught me resilience, teamwork, and discipline. This taught me how I approach life: tenaciously, and with a willingness to push myself beyond what I had previously believed I was capable of. I believe that challenges whether physical, intellectual, or personal are not obstacles but stepping stones like her. What motivates me most, is the desire to vindicate the sacrifices of my family and community and to succeed in the future. As an international student, I not only bring my own dreams but also the dreams of those who remained behind and have faith in me. This inspires me to be courageous in decision-making, entrepreneurial in pursuing goals, and resilient in the face of adversity. Her story instructs me that strength is not merely an issue of success but also of having the courage to hold on despite tragedy. In many ways, I am like Maggie: driven, fearless, and not willing to back down from a challenge in my pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. Her narrative dares me to continue pushing forward in my own life to become proficient in STEM, to embrace difficulty as an opportunity to grow and learn, and to leave a lasting impact through education and hard work. Like her, I want to live a life defined by bravery, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

Growing up in a low-income household raised by a single mother has shaped not only my values but also my outlook on life and what I believe is possible. From a young age, I watched my mother work tirelessly sometimes balancing two jobs to make ends meet. There were days when bills had to wait, and nights when lights were dimmed not just to conserve electricity, but because we couldn’t afford more. Yet despite these challenges, my home was filled with love, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. Financial hardship taught me responsibility early. I became the second adult in the house, helping raise my younger siblings, managing household chores, and even translating documents or making calls on my mom’s behalf when language barriers got in the way. These experiences shaped my core values: responsibility, compassion, and perseverance. While many kids my age focused solely on school and friends, I learned to juggle school with adult responsibilities. It wasn't easy, but it gave me a drive that I now carry into everything I do. Coming from a marginalized background also gave me firsthand exposure to how systems of inequality can affect entire families. I witnessed how lack of access to resources can limit opportunities—not because of a lack of talent or intelligence, but because of systemic barriers. This made me passionate about giving back. I’ve volunteered with local nonprofits that support food distribution, youth mentorship, and college readiness. I want to be the person who helps others find opportunities they didn’t even know existed because someone once did that for me. My love for technology and business stems from this same desire to create impact. I see technology as a tool that can level the playing field and help communities thrive. I dream of starting a business one day that not only employs people from low-income neighborhoods but also trains and mentors them to build careers in tech. I believe true success isn’t just about personal gain it’s about lifting others as you climb. Being BIPOC in America adds another layer to this journey. I’ve experienced the subtle and not-so-subtle ways that people of color are underestimated, overlooked, or excluded. But instead of letting this discourage me, it fuels me. I want to be a leader who proves that success is not defined by the ZIP code you were born into or the color of your skin, but by your ability to rise despite the odds. This scholarship would ease the financial burden of college and allow me to focus more on my education, skill development, and volunteer efforts. More importantly, it would be a validation not just for me, but for every kid who comes from a background like mine that our dreams are worth pursuing. I am not defined by what I lack, but by what I can give, create, and become.

My journey toward a computer science degree began with a simple curiosity: How do the apps and websites we use every day work? That curiosity turned into passion the day I fixed my phone not by replacing the screen, which I’d done before but by identifying and rewriting a small piece of buggy code in a settings file. From that moment on, I was hooked. I realized that technology isn’t just a tool; it’s a way to solve real problems, empower people, and change the world. Since then, I’ve pursued every opportunity to expand my skills and knowledge. During my internship at Finastra, I worked on XML and C# code to test financial applications that thousands of people rely on for their daily banking needs. That experience taught me how powerful and precise technology needs to be and how rewarding it feels to play even a small part in making someone’s financial life easier. I also participated in the Benedict College SURI Program, where I used Python and data analysis techniques to make next-point predictions in a dataset, contributing to research that can be applied to everything from public health to climate science. After receiving my degree, my dream is to build technology that supports underrepresented communities especially students like me who may face financial and social challenges while pursuing their education. I want to create an all-in-one mobile app for college students that connects them with on-campus events, student-run businesses, tutoring resources, and more. My goal is to help students feel seen, supported, and successful, no matter where they come from. I believe I’m a strong candidate for the Chris Jackson Computer Science Education Scholarship because I share Chris’s spirit of being present, helpful, and driven. Like Chris, I’ve faced financial struggles while trying to build my future. I know what it feels like to have big dreams and limited resources. But I also know how powerful support can be especially when it comes from people who believe in your potential. This scholarship would help lighten my financial load and give me the freedom to keep growing as a student, developer, and leader. Most importantly, it would allow me to carry on a legacy of kindness, resilience, and innovation just like Chris Jackson.

Technology has always been more than just a field of study for me, it's a way to turn ideas into solutions that can positively impact others. One project that deeply fueled my passion was during my internship at Finastra, where I was tasked with writing and testing XML and C# code to verify the integrity of banking software. At first, I saw it as a simple job, but as I dove into the technical details, I realized how much these systems shaped real people's lives controlling how they access loans, manage deposits, and secure their finances. Ensuring that the logic and data were correct wasn’t just a technical task it was a matter of trust. That experience helped me understand that precision and responsibility are critical in tech, especially when you’re building tools that people depend on every day. Another project inspired me from participating in the Benedict College SURI (STEM Undergraduate Research Initiative) Program. Using Python and topological data analysis, I developed algorithms that could predict the next point in a data set. These predictions had real applications in fields like weather forecasting, disease tracking, and finance. I presented this work to IT professionals and received valuable feedback that helped me grow not just as a programmer, but as a communicator and researcher. That experience showed me the power of using data and algorithms to uncover hidden patterns and make informed decisions something that motivates me to keep learning. What excites me most about working in technology is the limitless potential for growth, impact, and innovation. Every new tool I learn or line of code I write is a step toward solving problems that matter whether it's improving access to education, creating platforms for small businesses, or protecting user data. As a Black woman in tech, I also feel a sense of responsibility to be a trailblazer, to inspire others who might not always see themselves represented in this field. Like Chadwick D. McNab, I believe in lifting others as I climb. I aim to use my career not just to build software, but to build community, opportunity, and change. My ambition is to combine my technical skills with my values, developing apps that provide resources for underserved communities, especially students. One of my goals is to build a one-stop mobile platform that connects college students with campus events, student businesses, ticket sales, and tutoring services, helping them thrive socially and academically. Technology gives me the tools to dream big and act boldly, and I am determined to use those tools to make a difference. Receiving the Chadwick D. McNab Scholarship would allow me to continue pushing forward in my academic journey without being slowed down by financial challenges. It would also serve as a reminder that I’m not alone that there are people and legacies, like Mr. McNab’s, that believe in the power of growth, ambition, and community. I am committed to honoring that legacy, not just in what I build, but in who I become.

The day I lost my brother to gun violence marked a profound turning point in my life. Raised in a Jamaican household, I grew up with a strong sense of community and hard work. Losing someone so close to me helped me realize the importance of making an impact, not just for myself but for others. It fueled my passion to create solutions that empower people, particularly in underserved communities. As a Computer Science major with a minor in Cyber Security at Benedict College, I’ve dedicated myself to using technology to make a difference. My journey started with small technical jobs—repairing cell phones and doing hair—which helped me develop a strong work ethic and hands-on problem-solving skills. But I quickly realized my calling was in technology. I wanted to build tools that could change lives, particularly through data and innovation. In May 2024, I took my first major step into the tech world as a Software Engineer Intern at Benedict College’s SURI Program. There, I used Python and Topological Data Analysis (TDA) to develop algorithms for predicting next points in large datasets. This project improved my understanding of machine learning and neural networks, increasing prediction accuracy by 20%. I also had the opportunity to present my findings to IT professionals, an experience that sharpened my communication skills and showed me the importance of making complex data understandable and actionable. During the summer of 2024, I worked as a Software Developer Intern at Finastra, where I focused on developing and validating XML and C# test cases. My role involved conducting comprehensive testing cycles, identifying bugs, and improving system reliability by 15%. This experience helped me refine my skills in code validation, debugging, and ensuring that software is scalable and maintainable. It also reinforced my commitment to building technology that works seamlessly for its users. In addition to my internship experiences, I spent May 2023 – July 2023 as a Software Engineer Intern at Benedict College, where I created adversarial examples for image classification tasks using MATLAB and deep learning techniques. By developing robust image classification networks, I was able to improve their resistance to adversarial attacks by 25%. This experience deepened my interest in the security aspects of software development and reinforced my desire to explore how technology can be used to protect and empower people in a digital world. I am excited about the opportunities that STEM provides to solve complex problems and improve lives. Technology has the power to bring people together, enhance access to education, and create tools that help people overcome obstacles. I’m particularly passionate about how we can use data and machine learning to address real-world challenges—whether it's through predictive models or security solutions. One of my current projects involves developing a mobile app for campus services, which helps students easily access campus activities, student businesses, and event ticketing. By optimizing the app’s backend functionality, I’ve been able to handle high traffic volumes and ensure that students can easily access the resources they need. If I could do anything with my life, it would be to combine my love for technology with my commitment to community service. I aim to start a company that builds tech solutions for underserved populations. I want to develop platforms that help people gain access to opportunities, learn new skills, and connect with mentors who can guide them. My goal is to create a legacy of innovation that goes beyond profit—it’s about building a future where technology is a tool for empowerment and equality. One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced was dealing with the loss of my brother. His passing could have easily derailed my life, but instead, it fueled my determination to succeed. I turned my grief into purpose, channeling it into my education and career. The pain and loss made me more resilient, more focused on creating meaningful solutions, and more committed to making a difference in the lives of others. My journey in athletics has also contributed to my growth. I competed in volleyball, netball, and track in high school, which taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. These lessons have been invaluable in my professional journey. Whether it’s working on a team project or pushing through a challenging coding problem, I bring the same commitment to excellence and perseverance that I learned on the field. As I continue my education and career, I remain committed to learning and evolving as both a developer and a person. Technology is not just about writing code—it’s about creating solutions that matter. It’s about finding new ways to help people and make their lives easier, safer, and more fulfilling. I am excited for the future and eager to contribute to a world where technology empowers individuals to achieve their full potential.