I didn’t get interested in computer science from one specific moment. It was something that developed over time as I started realizing how powerful it is to actually build things with code. At first I just liked problem solving and technology, but that quickly turned into something more serious once I began creating systems that could have a real impact on people. One of the most important experiences in my journey was leading the development of a gyroscope controlled electric wheelchair for a disabled child who could not afford proper mobility support. The child was an immigrant and not a citizen, which meant they were unable to receive federal or state assistance for a wheelchair. As the lead software engineer, I worked with a team to design a system that allowed the user to control the wheelchair using head movement. The goal was simple but meaningful: to give this child independence they otherwise would not have had access to. Seeing that become a reality completely changed how I think about technology. It made me realize that computer science is not just about writing code, it is about improving lives. Since then, I have continued to push myself both technically and creatively. I started AdeptDev.io, a project management SaaS platform built specifically for developers. Building it from the ground up taught me how to think beyond just coding. I had to focus on usability, performance, and what developers actually need in their workflow. The platform has since been used by hundreds of developers, which showed me that I can take an idea and turn it into something real that people rely on. I have also pursued research to deepen my understanding of the field. As a National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF REU) research intern in human computer interaction, I worked on developing adaptive VR input systems for learning environments. My work focused on improving engagement while still keeping input efficient, which pushed me to think more deeply about usability and how people interact with technology. After earning my degree, I plan to become a software engineer working on meaningful, user focused systems, and eventually build my own technology company. I want to create tools that make development easier and improve accessibility for people who are often overlooked. I believe I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because I have consistently taken initiative to build, lead, and challenge myself. More importantly, I focus on using what I learn to help others. Like Chris Jackson, I understand how valuable education is, and I am committed to using it to create real impact. Receiving this scholarship would help support my education and allow me to keep building projects that make a difference in people’s lives.

My computer science goals are driven by a passion to use technology to address societal challenges, especially in accessibility. One of the most formative experiences for me was leading the software engineering aspects of a project to design and build a gyroscope-controlled electric wheelchair for a disabled child. The child was unable to receive federal assistance due to citizenship issues and had limited mobility. My team’s mission was to provide him with independence and mobility. As the lead software engineer, I implemented the code that allowed the child to control the wheelchair using head movements detected by a gyroscope sensor. This experience taught me how technology could have a direct, positive impact on someone’s life and fueled my desire to create more inclusive solutions that help those facing physical or societal barriers. Building on that passion, I am excited to continue my computer science studies at Penn State, focusing on artificial intelligence and machine learning. I aim to develop intelligent systems that can assist people with disabilities and enhance accessibility in digital spaces. My goal is to design software that is adaptive to individual needs, from creating intelligent prosthetics to improving access to education and healthcare. I want to ensure that technology is accessible from the beginning, providing a foundation for people of all abilities to succeed. Alongside my technical goals, I have strong entrepreneurial aspirations. I hope to combine my skills in software development with business leadership to start a company focused on accessibility and education. I believe technology can level the playing field, and I want to create products that empower individuals in underserved communities. This year, I’ll be participating in the Goldman Sachs Engineering Possibilities Summit, where I’ll gain insights into engineering and business through mentorship and hands-on learning. This experience will help me refine my leadership and problem-solving skills, preparing me for a future where I can bring my technical innovations to market. My non-computer science goals focus on social impact, especially in promoting digital equity. I am passionate about public service initiatives that provide access to technology for marginalized groups, and I aim to contribute to projects that increase digital literacy and opportunity. I want to use my knowledge to advocate for policies that ensure technology is inclusive and accessible for everyone. Ultimately, I see my computer science and non-computer science goals merging in my future career. I plan to use my technical expertise and entrepreneurial mindset to create innovative products that address real-world challenges. The lessons I will learn at the Goldman Sachs Engineering Possibilities Summit will help me navigate the intersection of technology, business, and social impact, giving me the tools to build a career that uses technology to make a meaningful difference.