Losing my father at twelve years old changed every part of my life personally, academically, and financially. Before his passing, even though he struggled with serious health issues, he was still the center of our family. He made difficult situations feel lighter with his humor, love, and presence. When he passed away suddenly from a stroke during our annual family trip to Virginia Beach in July of 2020, my entire world shifted overnight. Personally, losing my father affected me in ways I did not fully understand at the time. At twelve years old, I was forced to process grief far earlier than most children should have to. I became angry, withdrawn, and emotionally lost. I struggled with accepting the reality that the first person who loved me unconditionally was gone forever. There were moments where I blamed myself because before his stroke, he made comments about feeling like he would not be here much longer, and I brushed them off thinking he was joking. Carrying that guilt at such a young age deeply impacted my mental health and how I coped with pain. Without my father, I also lost a sense of stability and comfort. I began trying to fill the emptiness in unhealthy ways and struggled to navigate my emotions while still trying to grow up. Over time, however, those experiences forced me to become resilient. They taught me empathy, independence, and emotional strength. While I still grieve my father every day, especially during milestones and accomplishments, his loss has motivated me to become someone he would be proud of. Academically, my father’s death initially made it difficult to focus. Grief followed me into classrooms, assignments, and daily routines. There were days when simply showing up to school felt exhausting because my mind was consumed with sadness and confusion. Despite those struggles, I pushed myself to continue achieving because I knew education would create opportunities for my future. Instead of allowing my circumstances to define me, I used them as motivation. Today, I maintain strong grades while balancing leadership positions and responsibilities outside of school. I serve in leadership roles such as President of the Black Student Union and participate on my school district’s Superintendent Advisory Board. I also work with children through afterschool and summer programs while managing academics and community involvement. My experiences have strengthened my work ethic and taught me how to persevere even during difficult times. Financially, losing my father created challenges for my family and forced me to mature quickly. My father was someone we depended on, and after his passing, there was increased pressure surrounding stability and responsibility. I began working at a young age to help support myself and ease some of the burden on my family. Balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities has not always been easy, but it has taught me discipline and responsibility that many people do not learn until much later in life. Although losing my father permanently changed my life, it also shaped the person I am becoming. His absence has pushed me to work harder, lead others, and pursue opportunities that can create a better future for myself and my family. I carry both the pain of losing him and the lessons he left behind with me every day.

Growing up, I learned early that being a positive force in society is not always about having power or money. Sometimes it is simply about showing up for people consistently, even when life feels heavy yourself. I see myself as a positive force because I try to lead with empathy, responsibility, and action in every space I enter. Whether I am helping younger students at my afterschool job, leading initiatives as president of my school’s Black Student Union, or supporting my family, I understand that people are impacted by the choices we make every day. A large part of my mindset comes from the challenges I have experienced. Losing my father at a young age, navigating instability at home, and balancing school with work responsibilities forced me to mature quickly. Instead of allowing those experiences to harden me, they pushed me to become someone others could rely on. Working with children after school showed me how important positive role models are. Many kids simply need someone to encourage them and remind them that their future can be bigger than their circumstances. I try to be that person because I understand the impact support can have on someone’s confidence. In school, I work to create spaces where people feel valued. At our BSU talent show, I intentionally highlighted students whose talents often go unnoticed because I wanted people to feel recognized for more than academics or athletics. That experience reminded me that leadership is not about popularity or control; it is about service, inclusion, and integrity. I want people around me to feel empowered to grow into the best version of themselves. In the future, I hope to continue being a positive force through both my career and community involvement. I plan to pursue computer science because technology shapes nearly every part of modern society. However, many communities of color remain underrepresented in STEM fields and often lack access to opportunities within technology. I want to help close that gap by mentoring younger students and promoting diversity in tech so that success and innovation become more accessible to everyone. Current social norms heavily shape the way I think about my role in society. Today’s world often promotes image and competition over authenticity and compassion. Social media creates pressure to appear successful rather than genuinely contribute to others. There are also stereotypes placed on young Black students, especially Black girls, that make us feel as though we constantly need to prove our worth. Experiencing these expectations has made me more intentional about how I carry myself and how I support others who may feel underestimated. Ultimately, I believe being a positive force means leaving people and places better than you found them. The responsibilities I have carried from a young age taught me that strength means more than personal success; it means creating opportunities and support for the people around you. Through leadership, education, and service, I hope to continue creating an impact that reaches far beyond myself.

My father passed away from a stroke on July 3, 2020, when I was only twelve years old. His death completely changed my life and pushed me into one of the darkest periods I have ever experienced. After losing him, I turned to marijuana as a way to cope with the grief, guilt, and emptiness I felt inside. From ages twelve to fourteen, smoking became my escape. I also searched for comfort in unhealthy relationships because I was trying to fill a void that felt impossible to heal. Every year, my family took an annual trip to Virginia Beach for the Fourth of July weekend. My dad’s side of the family is originally from Crewe, Virginia, and the trip had been a tradition since before I was born. In 2020, my dad was already struggling with serious health problems including cancer, diabetes, and daily dialysis, but I was too young to fully understand how sick he really was. The first night of our trip, we went shopping at Target, and my dad looked at me and said, “I’m going to be gone soon, Paige. Who are you going to live with?” I laughed it off and told him to stop joking because that was the kind of personality he had. Later that night, he called me and my siblings into his hotel room. He had laid out two hundred dollars for each of us on the nightstand. He was trying to speak, but his words were not making sense. Then he stopped recognizing me. I still thought he was joking until I watched his eyes freeze and his body shut down in front of us. At twelve years old, what was supposed to be a happy family vacation became the night I lost the first person who ever truly loved me unconditionally. After his death, I blamed myself for ignoring the signs that something was wrong. I felt overwhelmed by grief, anger, and confusion, but I was too afraid to hurt myself directly. Instead, I hurt myself indirectly through drugs and destructive choices. My addiction damaged relationships with family and friends and caused me to lose parts of myself during those years. Eventually, I realized I did not want my pain to become my future. Recovery forced me to reflect on who I was becoming and who I wanted to be instead. I began rebuilding relationships, focusing on school, and finding healthier ways to cope with grief. Through leadership roles, working with children, and serving my community, I slowly regained confidence in myself and discovered purpose beyond my trauma. My experiences shaped many of my goals for the future. I plan to pursue higher education in computer science and business while continuing to mentor and uplift others, especially young people who may be struggling silently with grief, addiction, or instability at home. I want to prove that difficult circumstances do not have to determine someone’s outcome. The same way others poured into me during hard times, I hope to become a source of support and encouragement for people who feel lost or alone. Losing my father and battling addiction at such a young age changed me forever, but it also gave me empathy, resilience, and determination. My past does not define me. Like Max, I believe addiction should never define a person’s heart, potential, or future. I am moving forward by turning my pain into purpose and using my story to create a positive impact on others

The first time my pen disappeared, I assumed I dropped it. By the third time, I started keeping a suspect list. It was a purple gel pen with faded flowers on the side and a crack near the cap. Nothing expensive, but it wrote perfectly smooth, and every important thing in my life had been written with it. Scholarship drafts. Student council notes. AP Chemistry corrections. Without it, my handwriting looked nervous. “You know you sound insane over a pen, right?” my best friend Jada asked at lunch. “You don’t understand,” I said. “No, I do. I just think you’ve lost your mind.” I ignored her and opened my notebook to a page labeled POSSIBLE THIEVES. She stared at me. “You made a list?” “I’m being proactive.” “You’re being FBI-level dramatic.” Suspect number one was Marcus from Economics because he borrowed pens too often. Suspect number two was Destiny because she also liked gel pens. Suspect number three was honestly everybody else. The thing is, I knew it sounded ridiculous. Senior year was already stressful enough. Between classes, work, leadership meetings, volunteer hours, and scholarship applications, my brain constantly felt overloaded. Everybody kept telling me I was “so organized,” but most days I felt one inconvenience away from completely losing it. The pen was just…consistent. So when it disappeared again the morning before our student leadership presentation, I snapped. “WHO TOOK MY PEN?” The classroom went silent. Even the teacher looked concerned. Marcus slowly raised his hand. “You mean the purple one?” “Yes,” I said immediately. “Where is it?” He pointed at my hoodie pocket. The room exploded. People laughed so hard somebody hit the desk. Jada slid halfway out of her chair wiping tears from her eyes. “Detective Paige strikes again,” she said. My face burned as I pulled the pen from my pocket. For the rest of the day, people hid their pens when I walked by. “Protect your belongings,” Marcus whispered dramatically when I entered Economics. By lunch, someone had taped a missing poster on my locker. HAVE YOU SEEN THIS PEN? LAST SEEN CAUSING EMOTIONAL DAMAGE. Honestly, it was funny. But later that night, while I worked on scholarship essays at my desk, I realized why I cared so much. The pen wasn’t important because of the ink. It mattered because it made me feel in control. Every time life got overwhelming, I’d grab it, make another list, organize another schedule, and convince myself I had everything handled. But life doesn’t work like that. Sometimes things go missing. Sometimes you panic for no reason. And sometimes the thing you’re searching for is already in your pocket. The next morning, I placed the purple pen dramatically in the middle of the lunch table. “I’ve decided to grow as a person,” I announced. Jada nodded proudly. “Beautiful.” Then Marcus grabbed the pen and sprinted down the hallway. Unfortunately, I chased him.

Technology inspires me because it gives people the power to create solutions that can genuinely improve lives. What excites me most about computer science is that it combines creativity, problem-solving, and communication. You are not just writing code, you are building something that can help real people. One project I am especially passionate about was a coding project I completed through a computer science course at Carlow University. Before taking the class, I was drawn to technology because of the opportunities it could create for my future, but building my first project showed me how rewarding it felt to solve problems and create something from my own ideas. The assignment challenged me to think critically, troubleshoot errors, and stay patient even when things did not work the first time. I remember spending time trying to figure out why my code would not run correctly, then finally fixing the issue and watching everything come together. That moment made me realize I genuinely enjoyed the challenge of coding and the process of building something from the ground up. What made the project meaningful to me was not just the final result, but the growth that came with it. I learned how important persistence is in technology. One small mistake in code can stop an entire program, so I had to train myself to slow down, think logically, and approach problems step by step. Completing the project gave me confidence because it showed me that I was capable of succeeding in a challenging field that I once found intimidating. My interest in technology is also connected to my future goals. I come from a hardworking family of entrepreneurs, and growing up around people who built businesses taught me the importance of innovation and independence. Technology is constantly shaping the world, from healthcare to education to communication, and I want to be part of that progress. I am especially interested in fields like software engineering, artificial intelligence, and data science because they have the ability to create systems that make life more efficient and accessible for people everywhere. Beyond academics, technology inspires me because it opens doors for people from all backgrounds. As a Black student pursuing computer science, I understand the importance of representation in STEM fields. I want to show younger students in my community that they belong in these spaces too. Throughout high school, I have taken on leadership roles such as President of the Black Student Union and serving on my school district’s Superintendent Advisory Board. Those experiences taught me that leadership is about creating opportunities for others, and I hope to do the same through technology in the future. Working in technology inspires me because there is always something new to learn and improve. It is a field that rewards curiosity, creativity, and resilience, qualities I have developed through balancing school, leadership, work, and family responsibilities. Every project I complete pushes me to think bigger about what I can accomplish, and it motivates me to continue building skills that can make a meaningful impact in my community and beyond.

Growing up, I’ve always been surrounded by people who worked hard to build something for themselves. My family has experience in trucking, car businesses, and hands-on trades, and watching that showed me how powerful business can be. I saw how owning something of your own can create freedom, stability, and opportunities not just for yourself, but for the people around you too. At the same time, I also saw the stress that comes with financial instability and the pressure of trying to make ends meet. Those experiences are a big part of why I chose to pursue a business-related degree alongside my interest in technology and computer science. As someone who comes from a low-income, single-parent household, I learned responsibility very early. I started working at fourteen years old, balancing school, leadership positions, and jobs while still helping my family. There were times when I had to focus on surviving and supporting others before focusing on myself. Instead of letting those experiences discourage me, they pushed me to become more driven. I realized I wanted a career where I could combine leadership, communication, innovation, and problem-solving while also creating financial stability for myself and future generations of my family. Business interests me because it gives me the ability to turn ideas into action. I want to understand how organizations grow, how leaders inspire people, and how businesses can make a real impact in communities. I’m especially interested in combining business with technology because technology continues to shape the future of the world. I want to be part of creating solutions that help people while also opening doors for underrepresented communities in spaces like business and tech. Getting a degree in this field would completely change the trajectory of my life. It would mean more than just earning a diploma. It would represent stability, opportunity, and proof that my circumstances did not define my future. A degree would allow me to pursue careers that provide financial security while also giving me the tools to eventually build businesses and opportunities of my own. It would also allow me to support my family in ways I could not before. Beyond financial impact, earning this degree would show younger students in my community that success is possible even when life is difficult. As a student leader and someone who works closely with children, I understand how important representation and encouragement are. I want young people to see someone who came from challenges similar to theirs and still found a way to succeed through education, leadership, and determination. My goal is not only to build a successful future for myself, but to create opportunities for others along the way. Pursuing a business-related degree is the first step toward making that vision a reality.

Growing up, I always knew I wanted a career where I could create change, solve problems, and still connect with people on a personal level. That is what led me to pursue computer science as my area of study within STEAM. At first, I was interested in technology because of the opportunities and innovation behind it, but over time I realized computer science is much deeper than coding. It is a field that shapes how people live, communicate, learn, and access resources every single day. I want to be part of creating technology that genuinely helps people, especially communities that are often overlooked. My interest in technology also connects to the way I was raised. I come from a family of hardworking entrepreneurs involved in trucking, trades, and business ownership. Watching the people around me build opportunities from the ground up taught me resilience, leadership, and creativity. At the same time, I experienced challenges that forced me to mature early. After losing my father at a young age and later moving away from my mother’s home, I learned how important stability, opportunity, and support systems truly are. Those experiences motivated me to become someone others can rely on, whether through leadership, mentorship, or future innovations. Throughout high school, I have worked hard to turn my goals into action. I serve as president of my school’s Black Student Union, sit on the Superintendent Advisory Board, volunteer throughout my community, and work part-time with children in an afterschool program and summer camp. Working with kids has shown me how powerful encouragement and representation can be. Many young people, especially minority students, do not always see themselves reflected in STEAM careers. I want to help change that by showing younger students that success in technology and leadership is possible for them too. I chose computer science because it combines creativity, problem-solving, and impact. I am especially interested in artificial intelligence and software development because technology can either widen inequality or help close gaps depending on who is creating it. I want to contribute to technology that improves education, accessibility, and opportunities for underserved communities. My long-term goal is not only to build a successful career but also to mentor students, create programs that expose minority youth to STEAM fields, and eventually build businesses that create opportunities for others. This scholarship would help me continue pursuing those goals without carrying the overwhelming financial burden that often comes with higher education. As someone determined to graduate with as little debt as possible, every scholarship matters in helping me focus more on learning, leadership, and service instead of financial stress. Beyond financial support, receiving this scholarship would remind me that my ambitions and hard work are seen and supported. Kayla Nicole Monk’s story is inspiring because she faced immense challenges while still dreaming big and wanting to help others succeed. I connect deeply with that mindset. Like Kayla, I want my work and future accomplishments to positively impact the people around me. Through computer science, leadership, and community service, I hope to create opportunities, inspire others, and leave behind a legacy centered on growth, innovation, and helping people reach their full potential.

Higher education will give me the opportunity to turn the leadership, resilience, and work ethic I’ve built through my life experiences into a career that creates real change for others. Growing up, I learned early how to balance responsibility, school, work, and leadership all at once. I have worked since I was fourteen years old, helped care for my younger siblings, and taken on leadership roles in my school and community. These experiences taught me discipline, communication, and how to keep pushing forward even during difficult situations. Attending college will allow me to expand these skills while pursuing my interest in computer science, business, and helping people. I am especially interested in the ways technology can improve people’s lives and create opportunities for underserved communities. Coming from a low-income background, I understand what it feels like to worry about finances while still trying to dream big. Because of this, I want to use my education to create solutions that make resources, opportunities, and information more accessible for others who may feel overlooked or limited by their circumstances. In high school, I have consistently looked for ways to positively impact my community. I serve as president of my school’s Black Student Union, sit on the Superintendent Advisory Board, volunteer throughout my school district, and work with organizations that support students and families in my area. Through these experiences, I learned that leadership is not simply about holding titles, but about creating spaces where people feel supported, heard, and motivated to succeed. Higher education will also help me break generational barriers within my family. Many of my family members built success through entrepreneurship and hard work, and they inspired my determination to pursue a future with even greater opportunities. By earning a college degree, I hope to create long-term financial stability for myself while also showing younger students in my community that their goals are possible, even if they face obstacles. In the future, I plan to combine my education, leadership, and passion for helping others to make a positive impact through mentorship, community involvement, and innovation within the technology field. Whether that means creating programs for underserved students, mentoring younger leaders, or developing technology that improves access to education and resources, I want my success to benefit more than just myself. Higher education is not only an opportunity for me to grow personally and professionally, but also a way for me to uplift others and create meaningful change in my community.

When I was twelve years old, my father passed away from a stroke. Losing him changed the direction of my life in ways I did not fully understand at the time. I grew up faster, took on more responsibility, and started paying attention to the systems around me, especially the ones that failed people who looked like me. As I got older, I noticed how often communities of color are left behind in conversations about healthcare, technology, and opportunity. Instead of accepting that reality, I became determined to be part of changing it. That is why I chose to pursue a degree in STEM. I plan to major in computer science because I see technology as one of the most powerful tools for solving problems and creating access. What first drew me to STEM was curiosity. I wanted to understand how systems worked and how technology could influence everyday life. Over time, that curiosity became something bigger. I realized STEM is not just about coding or data. It is about people. Behind every app, medical advancement, or artificial intelligence system are human decisions that affect real communities.As a Black student, I have often been one of the few people of color in academic spaces focused on leadership or advanced opportunities. Instead of discouraging me, those experiences motivated me to take up space and encourage others to do the same. I serve as president of my school’s Black Student Union and sit on my district’s Superintendent Advisory Board. In those roles, I advocate for students whose voices are often overlooked. Leadership taught me that representation matters because people are more likely to believe they belong in a field when they see someone who looks like them succeeding in it. I am especially interested in artificial intelligence and data science because these fields are shaping the future at a rapid pace. However, technology is only as fair as the people creating it. Bias in algorithms, unequal access to technology, and underrepresentation in research continue to harm marginalized communities. I want to help build technology that is ethical, inclusive, and designed with diverse perspectives in mind. Whether that means developing fairer AI systems, improving access to digital resources, or creating programs that introduce minority students to STEM careers, I want my work to leave a lasting impact.My experiences working with children through afterschool programs and summer camps have also influenced my goals. I have seen how important mentorship and exposure are for young students. Many children, especially students of color, are capable of excelling in STEM but are never encouraged to explore it. In the future, I hope to mentor young people and create opportunities that make STEM feel accessible instead of intimidating. STEM needs more than innovation. It needs diversity of thought, experience, and perspective. As a person of color, I bring resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of communities that are too often excluded from important conversations. I chose STEM because I want to create solutions that help people, open doors for others, and prove that innovation is strongest when everyone has a seat at the table.

At school, I am usually the person leading something. I serve in leadership roles, organize events, help people solve problems, and try to make others feel included. I have always been known as outgoing, outspoken, and dependable. Because of that, people assume confidence comes naturally to me. For a long time, I wanted to believe that too.The truth is, I have social anxiety. Not the kind people expect, either. When most people think of social anxiety, they picture someone shy or quiet. I am neither of those things. I can speak in front of crowds, lead meetings, and hold conversations with almost anyone. But deep down, unfamiliar social situations make me overthink everything. I really noticed it during my junior-year HBCU tour. Back home, I had spent years building relationships and becoming comfortable in my environment. Even when I felt anxious, familiarity made it easier to hide. On the trip, though, nobody knew me. I had to introduce myself from scratch, make new friends, and figure out where I fit in.Something as simple as walking into a room full of students suddenly felt overwhelming. I would think too hard about where to sit, how to join conversations, or whether I sounded awkward when I spoke. Meanwhile, people probably still saw me as confident because that was the version of myself I had learned to present for years.That experience made me realize how exhausting it can feel to always be “the strong one.” People often assume leaders never feel uncomfortable, insecure, or out of place. I felt pressure to keep looking composed because I was so used to being the person others relied on.Over time, though, I stopped seeing my awkwardness as something embarrassing. Instead, I realized it made me more empathetic. Because I know what it feels like to silently question whether you belong, I pay closer attention to people who seem uncomfortable or left out. I notice the student sitting alone, the person struggling to join a conversation, or the quieter voices in a room that others overlook.My awkwardness has taught me that confidence and anxiety can exist at the same time. Someone can appear strong while still fighting internal battles nobody else sees. Learning that about myself has made me more understanding, self-aware, and compassionate toward others. Now, instead of feeling ashamed of that part of myself, I see it as one of the reasons I connect so deeply with people.

Growing up, I used to think strength meant never letting people see you struggle. Then I heard Olivia Rodrigo sing, “I’m so sick of 17, where’s my fucking teenage dream?” in her song “brutal,” and for the first time, I felt like someone understood what it was like to be young while carrying adult pressure. At school, people see me as a leader. I’m class president, president of the Black Student Union, and a member of my district’s Superintendent Advisory Board. Teachers trust me, students look up to me, and younger kids depend on me at the jobs I work after school and during the summer. From the outside, it probably looks like I have everything together.But Olivia’s music reminded me that achievement and anxiety can exist at the same time.When she sings about insecurity, comparison, and the fear of not being enough, it mirrors the pressure I often put on myself. As a teenager preparing for college while balancing work, leadership, family responsibilities, and financial stress, I sometimes feel like I have no room to fail. There are moments when everyone expects me to be confident and motivated, even when I feel overwhelmed behind the scenes.That feeling especially connected to me in “pretty isn’t pretty” when Olivia says, “I could change up my body and change up my face, I could try every lipstick in every shade, but I’d always feel the same.” Although the lyrics focus on appearance, I interpreted them more broadly. No matter how much I accomplish, there are times when I still feel like I have to keep proving myself. Another leadership role, another scholarship application, another responsibility. It can feel endless.What makes Olivia Rodrigo’s songwriting powerful is that she doesn’t pretend to have everything figured out. She allows herself to be emotional, frustrated, jealous, heartbroken, insecure, and angry without apologizing for it. Listening to her music taught me that vulnerability is not weakness. In many ways, it is honesty.That lesson became important in my own life after losing my father at a young age and later my grandfather. Those experiences forced me to mature quickly. I became someone who naturally takes care of others, whether that means helping my siblings, mentoring younger students, or trying to create spaces where people feel seen. Still, grief and pressure do not disappear simply because you become successful.Olivia’s music helped me realize that growing up is complicated. You can be grateful for your opportunities while still feeling exhausted. You can be strong and still need support. You can lead others while still discovering yourself. As I prepare for college and the future ahead of me, I carry that understanding with me. Success is important to me, but authenticity matters too. I do not want to become someone who hides every difficult emotion just to appear accomplished. I want to become someone who is honest enough to turn challenges into connection, the same way Olivia Rodrigo does through her music.

Most people see a single parent household as something that automatically puts a child at a disadvantage. For me, it became the reason I learned independence, resilience, and responsibility earlier than most people my age. When my father passed away from a stroke, my world changed overnight. I was only twelve years old, but childhood suddenly felt shorter. I watched my family try to navigate grief while also figuring out how to keep moving forward financially and emotionally. There was no time to sit still for long because life kept going. My mom carried responsibilities that should have been shared between two parents, and watching her manage everything showed me what perseverance truly looks like. As I got older, I realized education was more than grades or a diploma. To me, education became security, freedom, and opportunity. I knew I wanted a future where I would not have to struggle the way my family had. That mindset pushed me to become deeply involved in my school and community. I became class president, president of the Black Student Union, joined the Superintendent Advisory Board, worked multiple jobs, and still maintained my academics while helping care for my younger siblings. Many people only see accomplishments on paper, but they do not see the pressure behind them. There were days I went from school, to work, to family responsibilities, then stayed up late finishing assignments because failure never felt like an option for me.Growing up in a single parent household also made me pay attention to people who are often overlooked. I understand what it feels like to carry responsibilities quietly while still trying to be a normal teenager. That is why I naturally gravitated toward leadership and service. Working with children in afterschool and summer programs became important to me because I know how powerful encouragement can be. Sometimes young people just need one person to remind them that their circumstances do not determine their future.In the future, I want to give back by mentoring and creating opportunities for underserved youth, especially students who come from difficult home environments. I plan to use my education and career to build programs that combine leadership, technology, and community outreach. I want students to have access to resources, mentorship, and spaces where they feel supported and valued. I also want to show younger girls that they can lead confidently, pursue ambitious goals, and still remain authentic to themselves. Coming from a single parent household did not make my journey easy, but it made me stronger. It taught me how to lead during difficult times, how to work for what I want, and how to keep showing up even when life feels heavy. My story is not just about hardship. It is about growth, purpose, and using everything I have been through to positively impact other people.

I deserve this scholarship because I have never allowed my circumstances to decide how far I can go. While many students are still figuring out responsibility, I have already spent years balancing leadership, work, academics, and family obligations all at once. I know what it feels like to carry pressure, but I also know how to keep moving forward despite it. Losing my father at twelve years old changed the way I viewed life very early. Later, after losing my grandfather and experiencing instability at home, I learned that nothing is guaranteed. I could have used those experiences as excuses to give up or lower my expectations for myself, but instead they became the reason I push harder. They taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of creating opportunities instead of waiting for them.What gives me an advantage over other applicants is not that my life has been easier, but that I have learned how to succeed even when it was difficult. I work multiple jobs while maintaining my academics and taking on leadership roles such as serving as president of my school’s Black Student Union and sitting on the Superintendent Advisory Board. I spend my time mentoring younger students through summer camps and afterschool programs because I understand how important guidance and representation can be for young people growing up.I am not pursuing college simply for a degree. I am pursuing it because education represents stability, opportunity, and generational change for my family. I plan to study computer science and business because I want to build a successful future while also creating opportunities for others who come from situations like mine. This scholarship would not just help me financially. It would allow me to continue turning hardship into motivation and leadership into impact. I have already proven that I can persevere through adversity, lead others, and stay committed to my goals. With the right support, I know I can accomplish even more.

Joe Gilroy’s motto, “Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan,” strongly connects to the way I approach my own future. I have always believed that goals mean very little without discipline, structure, and the willingness to keep working even when life becomes difficult. My long-term goal is to build a successful career in technology while also creating opportunities for others through leadership, mentorship, and entrepreneurship. This fall, I will attend Howard University, where I plan to major in computer science. I am especially interested in artificial intelligence, software engineering, and business technology. Technology continues to shape nearly every industry, and I want to be part of creating systems and tools that make life easier and more efficient for people and businesses. At the same time, I want to combine my technical skills with my strengths in communication and leadership. My plan starts with education, but it does not stop there. Throughout college, I plan to build experience through internships, networking, coding projects, and certifications. I already understand that classroom knowledge alone is not enough in competitive industries. Because of this, I plan to spend time outside of class learning practical skills such as website development, AI integration, and business automation tools. One area I am especially interested in is helping small businesses use AI systems like chatbots and automated customer support tools. Many companies want these services but do not know how to build or customize them. I want to develop the skills necessary to provide those solutions.Financial planning is also a major part of my goals. I have worked since I was fourteen years old, balancing jobs with academics and leadership responsibilities. Those experiences taught me responsibility, communication, and time management at a young age. In college, I plan to continue working during summers and school breaks while aggressively applying for scholarships and paid internships. My budget includes tuition, books, transportation, housing, technology expenses such as a reliable laptop and software programs, and personal living expenses. To reduce unnecessary debt, I plan to save money consistently, use campus resources, and maintain disciplined spending habits. Leadership and service are equally important parts of my future. In high school, I served as president of the Black Student Union and participated on my school district’s Superintendent Advisory Board. I also worked with children through summer camps and afterschool programs. These experiences showed me how important representation, mentorship, and encouragement can be. In college and beyond, I want to continue mentoring younger students and eventually create programs that help students from difficult backgrounds access opportunities in education, leadership, and technology. I understand that success rarely happens in a straight line, so I have thought carefully about multiple paths toward my goals. Even if one opportunity does not work out, the combination of technical skills, leadership experience, communication abilities, and entrepreneurship will allow me to adapt. My plan is not only to create financial stability for myself, but also to build a career that allows me to make a meaningful impact on other people’s lives. Like Joe Gilroy, I believe success comes from having a plan and committing to it every single day.

To me, Computer Information Systems is more than technology. It is a way to connect innovation, business, and advocacy to create opportunities for communities that are often overlooked. I think about how many students are capable of succeeding in STEM but never get the same access, exposure, or support because of financial barriers and lack of representation. That reality is part of what pushed me toward Computer Information Systems at Howard University, where I can grow in a space that reflects both excellence and culture while preparing me to enter a field where Black voices are still underrepresented. My path has not been easy. Losing my father when I was twelve changed how I saw responsibility and stability. After that, I had to grow up quickly while also experiencing family instability and learning how to balance school, work, leadership, and supporting my family. Living with my uncle while managing my own responsibilities taught me discipline, resilience, and how to keep going even when life feels overwhelming. These experiences shaped me into someone who does not take opportunities for granted, especially education. I started working at fourteen, which shaped how I communicate and lead. Working in afterschool programs and as a summer camp counselor gave me real responsibility with younger students. I learned patience, guidance, and how powerful it is for a young person to feel supported. Over time, I became someone younger students naturally looked up to, not because I tried to lead, but because I showed up consistently. That understanding of leadership became even clearer when I served as president of my school’s Black Student Union. I organized a talent show for students who are often overlooked because they are the ones who always do the right thing but rarely receive recognition. Watching them step on stage with pride reminded me that leadership is about creating space where people feel seen and valued. My interest in Computer Information Systems also connects to growing up around entrepreneurship. I saw the importance of independence and building opportunities, but also how access still limits who succeeds. That is why I want to study technology and business together, because I see how both shape opportunity and how often marginalized communities are left out. After completing my degree in Computer Information Systems, I plan to attend law school so I can combine technology, business, and law to advocate for marginalized communities. I want to help close the gap in both STEM and legal fields by increasing Black representation and ensuring our voices are included in decisions that affect access and opportunity. In the future, I hope to create programs that expose Black and Brown students to STEM, business, and law earlier in life. Many students in underserved communities are never given hands-on exposure, even when they have the talent to succeed. I want to build mentorship programs and real-world opportunities that help students see what is possible for them. My goal is not only personal success but creating a pipeline that supports the next generation of Black learners in STEM.

I am passionate about using computer science and political science together to understand systems, solve real problems, and advocate for people who are often left out of decision-making spaces. My long-term goal is to go to law school after working in my fields because I want to sit at the intersection of technology, policy, and advocacy. I am not interested in just one lane. I am interested in how all of these areas connect to shape people’s everyday lives. Computer science drew me in because it is one of the most powerful tools shaping the world today. Everything from education to healthcare to communication runs through technology in some way. But what made me stay interested is realizing that technology is not neutral. It reflects the systems and decisions behind it. That means if certain voices are missing from tech spaces, then the systems being built will also miss those voices. That is something I take seriously. At the same time, political science and leadership are a huge part of who I am. I have always been someone who naturally steps into leadership roles, not just for titles, but because I pay attention to what people are going through. Whether it is in school, student organizations, or community spaces, I have found myself in positions where I am organizing, speaking up, or creating spaces where people feel seen. I do not believe leadership is about being the loudest person in the room. I think it is about noticing what is missing and being willing to do something about it. One of the biggest issues I have noticed in my community is that a lot of young people feel disconnected from school and overlooked in general. Many students are not necessarily failing because they cannot succeed, but because they do not feel recognized or engaged. In my own school experience, I noticed that students are often only acknowledged when something goes wrong, not when they are doing well or trying their best. That imbalance sticks with people. That is part of why I became interested in leadership initiatives that focus on student engagement and recognition. I wanted to create spaces where students could express themselves, be celebrated, and feel like they matter. I have been involved in organizing student-centered events and activities that give people a break from the pressure and remind them that school is also a place where they can be seen as more than just grades or behavior. Those experiences showed me how powerful it is when people are given space to show who they are. But I also started thinking deeper about why these issues exist in the first place. That is where political science comes in for me. A lot of the challenges I see are not just individual problems, they are system problems. Policies, structures, and decisions shape what resources students have access to and how supported they feel. Once I started thinking in that way, I realized I did not just want to respond to problems on a surface level. I wanted to understand how those systems are built and how they can be changed.This is where computer science connects directly to my advocacy work. Technology is now deeply tied to how systems function. Schools use data systems, communication platforms, and digital tools that affect how students are tracked, supported, and engaged. I became interested in how those systems could be improved or redesigned to actually serve students better. For example, how can data be used to identify when students are disengaging before it becomes a bigger issue? How can technology make resources more accessible instead of more complicated? How can schools use digital tools to recognize student achievement in real time instead of only highlighting a small group of people?These are the types of questions that motivate me to study computer science. I see it as a way to build solutions, not just understand problems.My leadership experience has also taught me how to communicate with different types of people and understand different perspectives. I have learned that real change does not happen in isolation. It requires listening, collaboration, and sometimes compromise. Those skills matter just as much in technology and political spaces as technical ability does. Whether I am building a system or advocating for change, I need to understand the people who are impacted by it.I also come from a background where hard work and entrepreneurship are deeply valued. I have seen what it means to build something from the ground up, to take responsibility seriously, and to keep going even when things are not easy. That mindset is part of why I am comfortable taking on multiple fields at once. I do not see computer science, political science, leadership, and law as separate paths. I see them as connected parts of a bigger mission.My plan is to pursue computer science in college while also continuing to develop my understanding of political systems and leadership. After that, I plan to attend law school. I want to use law as another tool to advocate for people, especially in areas where technology and policy overlap. As technology continues to grow, there are more questions being raised about fairness, access, privacy, and responsibility. I want to be part of the people helping shape those conversations in a meaningful way.Long term, I want to work in spaces where I can bridge these fields together. That could mean working on tech policy, supporting organizations that focus on education and youth development, or helping design systems that are both technically strong and socially responsible. My goal is not just to be part of one industry, but to be someone who understands how multiple systems interact and how they can be improved together.Earning a college degree in computer science is important to me because it gives me the technical foundation to build. But combining it with political science and leadership is what gives it purpose. It allows me to not just create systems, but to question them, improve them, and make sure they actually serve the people they are meant for.At the core of everything I do is a desire to create impact that lasts beyond me. I want to be remembered not just for what I accomplished individually, but for how I helped shift opportunities and systems for other people. That is what drives my interest in these fields, and that is why I am committed to this path.

What makes me different is that I don’t just follow what already exists, I create what I wish existed. One of the clearest examples of that was helping organize a kickball cookout for my community. It started as something fun for the class of 2026 in Pittsburgh, but the real purpose was deeper. I wanted us to feel like kids again. I feel like a lot of teens get pushed into growing up too fast, where fun starts looking like parties, drinking, or things that don’t always leave you better than before. I wanted to create something different where people could just show up, laugh, compete, and be themselves without pretending.After we hosted it, people told me I made a new way for us. At first I didn’t even realize the impact because to me, I was just doing what felt right. But then I started seeing other people recreate similar events and send me flyers saying I started something new. That’s when it hit me that impact doesn’t always feel big in the moment. Sometimes it shows up later when people start changing what they consider normal because of you.That same pattern shows up in other parts of my life. I’ve run for leadership positions multiple times, even when I didn’t get the outcome I wanted. One time I won the student vote but lost my position after new voting rules were added that didn’t exist before. In that moment, I felt discouraged, but over time I realized something important. I still had influence without the title. People still came to me for advice and looked at me like a leader. That taught me that my impact is not tied to positions, it is tied to how I show up.Even before titles like BSU president or advisory board member, I was already leading. As a kid, I organized games and made sure everyone was included. People used to call me bossy, but I’ve learned that was really my natural leadership showing up early. Over time, I learned how to turn that into something positive instead of shrinking it.A big part of who I am also comes from experiences where I felt isolated. Those moments made me more aware of how important it is to make people feel seen because I know what it feels like when they don’t.That shows up even in my family. My little sister watches everything I do and has picked up my independence without me teaching it directly. She tries to figure things out on her own because she sees me doing the same. It makes me proud, but it also reminds me that influence is real even when you don’t notice it.When people say they are watching me or looking up to me, it changes how I carry myself. It reminds me that my actions affect people I may never meet, so I stay intentional about how I move. At the end of the day, my difference is that I naturally create impact in spaces I’m in, even without trying to. And I’ve learned that someone is always watching, so I try to make sure what they see pushes them to believe they can build something different too.

A college degree to me is bigger than just a piece of paper. It represents stability, freedom, and a completely different path for my family than what we’ve had before. Growing up, I’ve seen what it looks like when opportunities are limited and people are forced to figure things out with whatever they have. After my dad passed, things changed a lot for my family. There were times where stability wasn’t guaranteed and we had to adjust quickly just to get through. Because of that, I don’t look at college as optional for me, I see it as necessary. Not just for me, but for the future generations that are watching me right now.When I think about how my college degree will change my life, I think about access. Access to careers where I’m not just surviving, but actually building something meaningful. I plan to study computer science and political science because I want to be in spaces where technology and policy overlap. Technology is shaping everything right now, but not everybody has a voice in how it’s built or who it serves. I want to be one of the people making sure communities like mine are not left out of that conversation. A degree would give me the skills to work in software engineering or data science, but also understand how decisions are made on a larger scale. That combination matters to me because I don’t just want to work a job, I want to understand the systems behind it and help improve them.Personally, a college degree also means breaking cycles. In my family, we come from hardworking people, entrepreneurs, people who grind every day in trades, trucking, business, all of that. I’ve learned a strong work ethic from that, but I also want to take it further in a different direction. I want my future kids and younger family members to see that education opened doors that didn’t exist before. I want them to grow up knowing that college is not just “if you can,” but something we’ve already made possible in our family because someone decided to push through and do it first.What I’m passionate about connects directly to that. I’m passionate about leadership, community, and making people feel seen. In school, I’ve taken on leadership roles like being part of advisory boards and leading student groups. One of the things I’m most proud of is helping organize a talent show through BSU. I noticed a lot of students didn’t feel motivated or recognized unless they got in trouble or fit into a certain box. So I wanted to create something where people could actually be seen for their talent and personality. That experience showed me how much impact you can have just by paying attention to what people need and acting on it.Outside of school, I also work with kids in afterschool programs and summer camps. That has shaped me a lot because I see how early confidence and encouragement matters. I’ve been pursuing my passion by putting myself in spaces where I can lead, communicate, and build programs that actually help people feel included. A college degree for me is not just about my future, it’s about rewriting what my family’s future can look like.

I am a student who cares deeply about people being seen, heard, and given fair access to opportunities. A lot of my motivation comes from growing up and witnessing how easily certain communities, especially marginalized ones, can be left out of important systems like education, resources, and even voting. Because of that, I’ve naturally been drawn to leadership roles and spaces where I can help change that. Right now, I serve as president of the Black Student Union at Penn Hills High School, where I’ve worked on creating events like a student talent show to highlight students who are often overlooked. That experience taught me that impact doesn’t always have to be huge to matter. Sometimes it’s just about making people feel valued and included. One cause I care about even more now is voter awareness, especially among young Black people between the ages of 18 and 21. I’ve noticed a lot of people don’t vote not because they don’t care, but because they feel uninformed or disconnected from the process. I’ve started using my voice on social media and in my everyday conversations to help change that by encouraging my peers to learn more and understand why their vote matters. I also take time to educate myself so I can explain it in a way that actually connects with people. This matters to me because voting has always been something people had to fight for, especially in the Black community. From historical movements like the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to the present day, it’s clear that access to political voice was never freely given. That makes it even more important that my generation shows up informed and ready to participate. Through my chosen majors in computer science and political science, I plan to take this impact even further. Computer science will give me the ability to work with technology, data, and digital tools that can simplify access to information. Political science will help me understand the systems and laws that shape communities and determine who gets represented and who gets left out. My goal is to combine both so I can help build tools and spaces that make complex systems like voting, law, and public resources easier to understand and access, especially for marginalized communities. Overall, I want my work to bridge gaps between people and systems. Whether that’s through technology, education, or advocacy, I want to be someone who helps others feel informed, empowered, and included in decisions that affect their lives.

“Do not go where a path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” That quote reflects what I’ve had to learn as both a student and a leader. In a school of over a thousand students, I began to notice something that didn’t sit right with me: the students who showed up every day, did what they were supposed to do, and stayed out of trouble were often invisible. Recognition usually came when something went wrong, not when things were done right. Over time, that lack of acknowledgment started to affect motivation, attendance, and school culture as a whole. As President of the Black Student Union, I decided not to accept that as the norm. I wanted to create something that celebrated students for who they were, not just what they did wrong. That’s where the idea for a talent show came from. I wanted to give students a space to express themselves, be seen, and feel valued. There was no blueprint to follow, no existing structure I could rely on, especially not one that centered all students equally. So I had to build it from the ground up. With only two weeks to plan, I organized meetings with my peers, school administrators, and even the superintendent to bring the vision together. I had to make decisions about participation, attendance, structure, and promotion, all while making sure the event stayed inclusive and student-centered. Many people doubted whether it could even happen in such a short amount of time, but I stayed committed to the purpose behind it. The result was more than just a successful event. It became something students could look forward to. Even those who didn’t participate or attend heard about it and wanted to be involved the following year. By the second year, turnout had grown significantly, and I began to notice a shift. Students were more engaged, attendance improved, and there was a stronger sense of community within the school. For once, students who were often overlooked had a moment to be recognized and celebrated.What made this initiative meaningful was not just the event itself, but the intention behind it. I didn’t want to create something that only highlighted a select group, like traditional school events often do. I wanted something that was truly inclusive, where anyone could show up, be themselves, and be appreciated for it. Instead of following a path that already existed, I created one that better reflected the needs of the students around me.This experience showed me that leadership is not about maintaining systems as they are, but about recognizing when they fall short and having the courage to change them. In the future, I plan to continue creating spaces and opportunities that uplift and empower others, whether through my work with students, my interest in technology, or my commitment to community impact. No matter where I go, I will continue to lead by building paths where none currently exist.

My career interest is in computer science, specifically software engineering with a growing focus on artificial intelligence and data science. I’ve always been drawn to understanding how systems work behind the scenes, but what really pushed me toward this field is realizing how much technology shapes everyday life and how few people who look like me are represented in building it. I don’t just want to use tech, I want to create it, improve it, and make sure it reflects more diverse experiences. Right now, I am taking a coding class through Carlow University where I’ve been learning the basics of programming and problem solving. At first, it felt overwhelming because it forced me to think in a completely different way, but over time I started to enjoy breaking problems down step by step and seeing my code actually work. That class confirmed that I can handle the challenge and that I actually enjoy the process of building something from scratch. Outside of academics, I’ve taken steps to build leadership and real-world experience. I serve as president of my school’s Black Student Union, where I help organize events that highlight Black culture, student voices, and community support. I also sit on the Superintendent Advisory Board, which gives me a chance to speak on student issues and be part of conversations that impact the entire district. Those roles have helped me build confidence in my voice and taught me how to lead in spaces where decisions are being made. I also work 20 hours a week at an afterschool program, where I support younger students with homework and daily activities. Working with kids has shown me the importance of patience, communication, and responsibility. It also reminds me that impact does not always have to be big to matter. Sometimes it is just being consistent for someone who needs it. In addition to that, I’ve volunteered with my school district and community organizations on events like school cleanups, food drives, and youth programs. These experiences taught me how much teamwork and service matter, especially in communities that are often overlooked. Everything I’ve done so far connects back to my goal of entering tech and using it to create opportunities, especially for underrepresented communities. I want to build systems that are not just advanced, but also accessible and fair. In college, I plan to continue studying computer science while seeking internships, research opportunities, and mentorship that will help me grow in this field. My ambition is not just to succeed individually, but to be someone who opens doors for others who come after me.

I didn’t grow up with much structure around money or financial education. Most of what I learned about finances came from real life situations, not classrooms or conversations at home. When my dad passed away, everything in my family shifted. There were moments where we didn’t have stable housing and had to move between a car, hotels, and temporary living situations. At that age, I didn’t fully understand the financial weight behind what was happening, but I saw how quickly money, stability, and planning can affect every part of life. As I got older, I started working early because I knew I wanted to contribute and not just depend on others. Having a job while still in school taught me how to manage small amounts of money, but also showed me how easy it is to lose track of spending when you don’t have a real system. I learned things like saving is not just about intention, it is about discipline and consistency. I also learned that if you do not understand how money works, it is very easy to make decisions that feel good in the moment but hurt you long term. One of the biggest gaps I noticed in my life and around people my age is financial literacy. A lot of us are expected to just “figure it out” when it comes to credit, budgeting, loans, and college costs, but we are not really taught how any of it works. Things like credit scores, interest rates, or student loans were not explained to me in detail in a way that felt real until I started actively looking into college and scholarships myself. Even now, I am still learning what it actually means to make smart financial decisions instead of just surviving paycheck to paycheck. What motivates me to take financial education seriously is my future. I want to go to college for computer science, and I know that comes with major costs. My goal is to graduate without being buried in debt and to understand how to manage money in a way that builds long term stability. I also want to be able to support my family and eventually create opportunities for others, especially young people who come from similar backgrounds and do not have access to financial guidance at home. Going forward, I plan to use financial education to make intentional decisions instead of reactive ones. That means budgeting properly, understanding credit before I use it, learning how loans actually work, and building savings even while I am in school. It also means seeking out information instead of avoiding it when it feels complicated. Overall, my experiences have taught me that financial literacy is not optional. It is a tool that can either limit your future or expand it. I want to use what I learn to make sure I am always moving toward stability, independence, and eventually the ability to give back and help others avoid the same struggles I had to learn through.

My career goals are rooted in both my lived experiences and my desire to create meaningful change in the lives of others. I plan to major in computer science, with a focus on fields such as software engineering, data science, or artificial intelligence. While these fields are often seen as purely technical, I view them as powerful tools to improve people’s lives—especially those who are underserved, overlooked, or living with disabilities. Growing up, I was exposed to instability at a young age after my father passed away. My family faced housing insecurity, and I had to mature quickly while helping care for my younger siblings. Those experiences shaped my resilience, but more importantly, they shaped my perspective. I understand what it feels like to struggle and to need support, and that drives me to be someone who creates solutions that make life easier for others. In addition to my academic goals, I have consistently been involved in leadership and service. As the president of my school’s Black Student Union and a member of the Superintendent Advisory Board, I’ve worked to create inclusive spaces and advocate for students. I also work with children through my afterschool job and summer camp counseling, where I’ve learned patience, communication, and the importance of meeting people where they are. These experiences connect directly to the mission of organizations like United Disabilities Services, which focus on helping individuals live fuller, more independent lives. In the future, I hope to combine my passion for technology with my commitment to service by developing tools and systems that increase accessibility. This could include creating apps that support individuals with disabilities, improving assistive technologies, or using data to better understand and address gaps in care and resources. I want my work to not only innovate but to uplift. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me achieve these goals. As I prepare for college, financial barriers are a real concern. While I have worked hard academically and earned scholarships, there are still significant costs that I must cover. This support would reduce that burden, allowing me to focus more on my education, leadership opportunities, and career development instead of financial stress. The legacy of Shawn M. Long reflects a life dedicated to service, leadership, and community impact. That is the same standard I hold for myself. I am committed to using my education not just for personal success, but to make a difference in the lives of others—especially those who need it most.

When I started high school at Penn Hills, I was already carrying more than I knew how to express. After losing my dad when I was 12, I moved through life in survival mode, trying to stay afloat while figuring out who I was supposed to be. By the time I was heading into my sophomore year, I had started slipping into habits that did not reflect who I wanted to become. I was getting in trouble, getting suspended, and slowly realizing that the path I was on was not going to lead me anywhere I wanted. The turning point came at the end of that summer before sophomore year. I understood that if I wanted college, leadership, and a real future, I had to change not just my actions, but my mindset. That shift was reinforced through conversations with my school social worker and especially Ms. Balint, my 10th grade honors English teacher. She told me something I never forgot: she could see who I could become, but I had to see it too. That moment pushed me to stop living stuck and start believing I had direction. That belief became real when I was nominated for the Superintendent Advisory Board in 10th grade. Sitting in that space, knowing I was chosen by teachers and approved by administration, was my first real wake-up moment. I realized I was not just a student going through the system. I had a voice in it. From there, I stepped into more leadership roles, including Class President and Black Student Union President. Being BSU President pushed me in ways I did not expect. Planning events like our annual Black History Month talent show taught me that leadership is not just vision, it is execution. I also learned how difficult it can be to bring people together without enough time or support, especially when plans do not go the way you expect. One of my biggest lessons came when a larger expansion idea I had for a Black club fair was not approved. At first, I saw it as failure, but it taught me how to adjust, find another angle, and keep moving instead of stopping at “no.” A major influence in my growth has been Ms. Balint, who consistently supported me through school challenges and personal instability at home. She helped me with SAT prep, college applications, and more importantly, she taught me how to push past limits I placed on myself and work a different angle when things do not go as planned. Because of these experiences, I no longer see myself as someone drifting. I see myself as a driven leader who does not take no for an answer. Looking forward, I plan to major in computer science, focusing on software engineering,while also pursuing law through a JD program. I want to combine tech and law creating real impact, eventually building my own firm. Moreover I want my journey showing other students that your starting point does not define your ending.

I am a student leader, mentor, and someone who has learned how to turn adversity into motivation. My life experiences have shaped not only who I am, but also how I view the world and my responsibility within it. At a young age, I experienced significant hardship after losing my father, which led to instability in my home life and periods where my family struggled with housing insecurity. During that time, I learned lessons many young people do not have to face so early: resilience, sacrifice, and the importance of having a strong support system. Although those experiences were difficult, they taught me the value of faith. Faith became something deeper than tradition for me—it became a source of strength, hope, and direction. It gave me something to hold onto during uncertain times and reminded me that my circumstances did not define my future. My faith continues to guide how I approach challenges, relationships, and leadership opportunities. It encourages me to move with purpose, remain grateful, and serve others with humility. Love, to me, is more than a feeling or word. It is intentional action. It is shown through how we treat people, how we support them, and how we make others feel seen and valued. I try to practice this daily in both big and small ways. As president of my school’s Black Student Union, I work to create an inclusive environment where students feel empowered to express themselves, celebrate culture, and have meaningful conversations. Through organizing events and initiatives, I aim to create spaces that strengthen connection and belonging within my school community. Outside of school, I work in an afterschool program with children, which has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life. Working with kids has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of being a positive role model. I understand how influential caring adults can be in a child’s life, especially for children who may be navigating their own challenges. I strive to be someone who offers encouragement, consistency, and support. Community service is also an important part of who I am. I have volunteered through school district events, community clean-up efforts, holiday food distributions, toy drives, and fundraising events that support educational opportunities such as HBCU tours. These experiences have shown me that service is not about recognition, but about contributing to something bigger than yourself. Even small acts of service can create meaningful change and remind people that they are not alone. In the future, I plan to pursue higher education in computer science while continuing to develop my leadership and communication skills. I am passionate about technology, innovation, and problem-solving, but I also care deeply about people. My goal is to combine these interests by creating tools, resources, or systems that improve accessibility and opportunity, particularly for underserved communities. Ultimately, I hope to make a positive impact by living out the principles of love, faith, and service in everything I do. Whether through leadership, mentorship, technology, or community involvement, I want my life to reflect compassion, purpose, and a commitment to helping others grow. I believe true impact is not made in one extraordinary moment, but through consistent actions that uplift individuals and strengthen communities over time.

Right now, I work as an afterschool program staff member about 20 hours a week, where I support kids academically and socially after school. It sounds simple, but it’s taught me a lot about patience and consistency. You can’t just “tell” kids what to do and expect it to stick. You have to understand them, earn their attention, and be someone they actually trust. On top of that, I’ve also worked as a summer camp counselor at a country club, where I supervise kids ages 5–12. That job pushed me into being more alert, more responsible, and more aware of how different each child is. Some need structure, some need encouragement, some just need someone to listen. Outside of paid work, I’ve been deeply involved in volunteering through my school and community. At Penn Hills High School, I’ve helped run middle school events, cleaned and picked up trash across all three district buildings, and stayed after school to help plan student activities. I’ve also read to students and helped with a clothing drive. One of the experiences that stood out to me was helping at a community senior prom. It showed me that service isn’t always big or loud. Sometimes it’s just showing up and making people feel seen. I’ve also volunteered with local organizations like Pittsburgh Omega, helping with their haunted house fundraiser that supports HBCU tours, and participating in toy drives and food giveaways during the holidays. Those moments taught me that impact doesn’t always come from having money or power. It comes from consistency and care. A lot of what I’ve learned comes from the people around me. Losing my dad when I was 12 changed everything. After that, my older brother Paris and my uncle became my main father figures. From them, I learned discipline, work ethic, and how to keep going even when life is heavy. My family overall comes from entrepreneurship, so I grew up watching people build things from nothing, whether that’s in trucking, cars, or hands-on business work. That shaped how I think about effort and ownership. Leadership in my school, especially being Black Student Union president and serving on the Superintendent Advisory Board, has also taught me how to speak up even when it’s uncomfortable. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being responsible for people who are counting on you. Looking ahead, I want to study computer science and build a career in software engineering, data science, or AI. At the same time, I want to keep growing in leadership and eventually build something of my own, like a nonprofit that supports young people, especially in my community. I also want to be able to travel more and expand my perspective beyond where I grew up. Over time, I want to grow into someone who is not just successful on paper, but someone who actually builds opportunities for others, especially kids who might be in situations similar to mine.

A father figure is not always one person for me, it’s been a group of people who stepped in and carried me through different stages of my life. My biological father passed away when I was 12 from a stroke. That loss changed everything for me. He was only in my life for about six years consistently, but those years shaped how I understood love, respect, and communication. Even in discipline, he taught me that talking things through matters more than anger or force. His presence, even in a short time, left a lasting impact on who I am. After his passing, my older brother became my biggest father figure. He was only 16 at the time, but he stepped into a role most adults would struggle with. I remember moments like him buying me a new phone before a family trip with our dad, and later, when our father passed, him just holding me and crying with me because there were no words that could fix it. Even while balancing his own life and later becoming a father himself, he still showed up for me in every way possible. There was a time he would take my niece to daycare, take me to school, then go straight to work. At 17, I don’t even think I understood how heavy that responsibility was, but now I see it clearly. My uncle, my father’s brother, also became a major father figure in my life. He opened his home to me and has supported me for the past few years. Along with my grandfather, they showed me what stability looks like through action. My grandfather taught me independence through small things like building and fixing everything in the house, showing me that being capable starts with learning how to handle things on your own. Together, they shaped how I move through life. I’ve experienced loss again with my grandfather passing from cancer in 2023, but each experience taught me the importance of being present and grateful for the people you have while they are here. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs also shaped how I see the world. My father’s side built businesses through trucking, car work, and other hands-on industries. There was never a mindset of waiting for opportunities, only creating them. That mindset is what led me to pursue computer science. I see it as a way to build, solve problems, and create something for myself while carrying forward the work ethic I was raised around. If I had to describe my father figures in three words, it would be driven, compassionate, and go-getters. Each of them, in their own way, showed me what it means to keep moving forward no matter what life brings.

Entrepreneurship has never felt like an option for me, it has been a way of life. I come from a family where building businesses is the norm, not the exception. On my dad’s side, almost everyone is an entrepreneur. From trucking and auto shops to restaurants, candy stores, and clothing businesses, my family has always created their own opportunities. My dad and his brothers never followed a traditional 9-to-5 path. Instead, they built and worked within family businesses, and that mindset was passed down to me early. My first real experience with entrepreneurship came when my dad bought me a small candy machine from Facebook Marketplace and placed it in one of my uncle’s auto shops. I would stock it, manage it, and collect the money. At the time, I did not fully understand it, but I was already learning how ownership works. That moment stayed with me. As I grew older, I kept finding ways to create small businesses on my own, whether it was selling slime during its trend, selling snacks and drinks at school, or even making buffalo chicken dip in high school. I was always looking for ways to turn ideas into income. Today, that same mindset has expanded into bigger goals. One of the first businesses I plan to build is a vending machine business. It is something I have been thinking about since I was a child, and now I see it as a real starting point for building long-term financial independence. Alongside that, I am currently developing a tech-based idea focused on helping people find Black-owned businesses more easily, especially when traveling or exploring new areas. I want people to have better access to support businesses within our communities. Beyond business, I am also working toward creating a nonprofit organization called Rising Women. My goal is to support young girls and help them understand that their background does not define their future. Representation matters to me deeply because I have had to learn how to define myself outside of the expectations placed on me. I want to build something that reminds young women that they can lead, create, and succeed without limits. During college, I have been intentional about preparing for entrepreneurship. I recently completed an internship at BNY Mellon, where I gained exposure to how technology and artificial intelligence are used in real business environments. That experience helped me see innovation in a practical way and made entrepreneurship feel even more possible. I also actively network through events in Pittsburgh, including the NLA Women Workforce event, STEM Summit, and scholarship programs. These experiences have connected me with mentors who continue to guide my growth. At my core, what drives me is resilience and leadership. I have learned how to turn challenges into motivation and responsibility into action. Entrepreneurship for me is not just about starting businesses. It is about building impact, creating opportunity, and continuing a legacy of self-made success that has shaped my family and now shapes my future.

Pursuing higher education has never been a question of if for me, but how. As a Black student from Pennsylvania with significant financial need, I have had to navigate the college process largely on my own, learning how to build a future with limited guidance and resources. I plan to attend Howard University, where the total cost of attendance is approximately $60,000 per year. So far, I have been awarded an $11,000 merit scholarship and a $16,000 need-based scholarship from the university, along with a $7,395 federal Pell Grant. Additionally, I have the option to take out $5,000 in federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Despite this support, I am still left with a remaining balance of approximately $25,000 per year out of pocket. If I don’t accept , that balance could rise closer to $30,000 annually. I have worked tirelessly to close that gap. I was awarded the Linda Kopp Memorial Scholarship for $1,000 and will receive an additional $4,000 over four years from another scholarship. I continue to apply to local and national scholarships, including foundation-based and institutional opportunities, while also exploring work-study and additional aid through my university. My family is doing what they can to support me financially, but due to limited resources, they may only be able to contribute around $3,000 per year. As a result, I am preparing to take on additional loans, including potential Parent PLUS or private loans, in order to afford my education. Even with these challenges, I am committed to making this work. If necessary, I am willing to make difficult sacrifices, such as living off-campus with extended family to reduce housing costs, which alone total nearly $20,000 annually. While this is not my ideal situation, it reflects my willingness to adapt and prioritize my education. My financial situation has shaped my character in ways that reflect compassion, integrity, and resilience. After losing my father at a young age, I experienced firsthand what it means to navigate hardship and uncertainty. That experience deepened my empathy for others, especially young people facing similar struggles. Through my leadership as President of the Black Student Union and my involvement in community service, including mentoring younger students and organizing drives, I have worked to uplift those around me. Integrity, to me, means continuing to push forward even when no one is watching and when the path is unclear. As a first-generation college student, I have had to figure out every step of this process independently, from financial aid to scholarship applications to long-term planning. I have not allowed limited resources to limit my ambition. Instead, I maximize every opportunity available to me by working multiple jobs, building connections, and constantly seeking new ways to fund my education. This journey itself is proof of my ability to make something out of very little. I am not waiting for the perfect circumstances, I am creating them. While many doubted whether I would pursue higher education, especially out of state at a prestigious HBCU, I have remained determined to achieve my goals despite the odds. This scholarship would significantly reduce the financial burden I face and allow me to focus more fully on my education and service. More importantly, it would support a student who is committed not only to personal success, but to using that success to uplift others and address inequality within my community. I am determined to attend college, and I am determined to give back. I just need the opportunity to continue making it possible.

When I think about selflessness, I don’t think about big, perfect moments. I think about the small, consistent choices to show up for people, even when it’s inconvenient or goes unnoticed. For me, selflessness is rooted in how I lead and how I serve. As president of my school’s Black Student Union, I’ve made it a priority to create a space where students feel seen, heard, and valued. One of the most meaningful things I organized was a talent show that highlighted students who are often overlooked. It wasn’t just about performing—it was about giving people confidence and reminding them that their voices matter. Watching students step out of their comfort zones and feel supported by their peers showed me the real impact of creating intentional spaces for others. Outside of school, I’ve committed much of my time to working with children through afterschool programs and summer camp. Whether I’m helping with homework, organizing activities, or simply listening to them talk about their day, I try to be someone they can rely on. There are days when I’m balancing school, work, leadership roles, and responsibilities at home, and it would be easier to pull back. But I don’t, because I understand that consistency matters. Kids don’t remember one perfect day—they remember who kept showing up for them. My involvement in the community also includes volunteering through clothing drives, school-wide cleanups, and events supporting families and seniors. These experiences have taught me that service isn’t always visible or celebrated. Sometimes it’s staying after school to plan events, picking up trash across campus, or organizing donations behind the scenes. Even without recognition, I’ve learned that those efforts still have a lasting impact. Perseverance has been a major part of my journey. I’ve faced personal challenges that forced me to grow up quickly and take on responsibilities beyond what is expected of someone my age. Despite that, I’ve continued to push forward academically, maintain leadership roles, and stay committed to my community. There have been moments where I felt overwhelmed, but giving up was never an option because I know people are counting on me. What drives me is the understanding that leadership is not about being in charge—it’s about being responsible for others. I don’t just want to succeed for myself; I want to create opportunities and support systems for the people around me. Whether it’s helping a younger student feel more confident, organizing events that bring people together, or simply being present when someone needs support, I try to lead with intention and empathy. Michael Rudometkin’s belief that life is about more than grades resonates deeply with me. I strive to live that out every day by prioritizing relationships, giving back to my community, and using my voice to uplift others. To me, selflessness means leaving every space better than I found it—and making sure the people in it feel valued long after I’m gone.

I’ve always known how to use my voice. Computer science taught me how to build something with it. A few years ago, I would not have seen myself pursuing this path. I was known for my leadership, my energy, and how I connected with people. Tech felt like a completely different space. But when I was introduced to coding, I was challenged in a way I was not used to. I could not rely on confidence alone—I had to think critically, problem-solve, and be okay with failing and trying again. At first, that frustrated me, but it also pushed me. I kept going, and that is where my interest grew. Over time, I realized computer science is more than just code. It is about creating solutions and building systems that can impact people’s lives. Coming from a community where opportunities are not always equal, that stood out to me. I do not just want to succeed in tech—I want to use it to create access and opportunities for others, especially for young people who may not see themselves in these spaces. My drive is deeply connected to my personal experiences. When I was 12 years old, I lost my father during a family vacation. That moment changed my perspective on everything. It forced me to grow up quickly and taught me that time and opportunity are not guaranteed. Since then, I have carried resilience into every space I enter. I do not take opportunities lightly I maximize them. Today, I serve as president of my school’s Black Student Union, where I create spaces for students to feel seen and supported. I also work with younger students, and I’ve realized they are always watching how I lead, how I speak, and how I show up. That responsibility motivates me to be better, not just for myself, but for them. Alongside this, I have earned over 30 college credits while still in high school, balancing academics, leadership, and work. These experiences have strengthened my discipline and determination. After earning my degree, I plan to pursue a career in software engineering, data science, or artificial intelligence. I want to solve real-world problems while also mentoring young people and creating programs that introduce them to technology early. I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because of my resilience, leadership, and commitment to growth. Everything I have experienced has shaped me into someone who does not wait for opportunities I create them. This scholarship would not just support my education it would be an investment in someone who will turn opportunity into impact.

One moment that really stuck with me involved a close friend I’ve known since fifth grade. She’s always been someone who expresses herself in a more masculine way, and she’s never really fit into the “typical” boxes people try to put others in. When prom season came around, instead of excitement, she started getting comments that made it feel like she had to shrink herself. People told her she couldn’t “switch it up” for prom, that she would look “bad” or “ugly,” and even questioned if she was supposed to be a “queen or a king” just because she wanted to present differently and run for prom court. Watching that happen to her honestly made me angry and hurt for her. Prom is supposed to be one of those moments where you get to show up as your full self, not perform what other people expect you to be. The way people were policing her identity and expression made it clear how quickly judgment can turn into exclusion, especially for LGBTQIA+ students who are already navigating spaces that don’t always feel fully safe or accepting. I couldn’t just sit with it. I started talking to other students and realized a lot of people agreed that the system didn’t really leave space for gender nonconforming students in something as visible as prom court. That pushed me to take action. I wrote and circulated a petition and brought it to my peers first, then escalated it to school leadership, including the principal and superintendent. My goal was to push for a gender-neutral prom winner structure so students aren’t forced into “king” or “queen” categories that don’t reflect everyone. Even though change doesn’t happen overnight, that experience shaped how I see leadership and activism. I learned that advocacy isn’t always loud rallies or big speeches, sometimes it starts with noticing what feels unfair and refusing to ignore it. It also showed me how important it is to protect people’s right to express themselves without being judged or labeled. Since then, I’ve been more intentional about speaking up in spaces where rules or traditions might be quietly excluding people. In the future, I want my activism to focus on making school environments more inclusive, especially for LGBTQIA+ students who deserve to feel seen in every part of student life, not just the parts that are convenient or traditional. I also want to keep building spaces where students don’t feel like they have to choose between being themselves and being accepted. That situation with my friend didn’t just affect how I see prom or school events. It shaped how I see responsibility. If something is unfair and I have the ability to question it, I should

The number one reason I’m pursuing post-secondary education is to create freedom, financially, mentally, and generationally, not just for myself but for the people who come after me. I know college is not the only path in life, but for me, it is the best one. It is the next step between where I am now and the life I know I am capable of having. I am not chasing a degree just to say I have one. I am chasing the life that comes with it. Growing up, I learned early that life does not always give you a clear path. When my dad passed away while I was still young, it left me with questions I did not know how to answer and emotions I did not know how to process. For a long time, that turned into anger and confusion. As I got older, I realized I had a choice. I could let my circumstances define me, or I could use them as motivation to build something better. I chose to push forward, and education became the clearest way to do that. To me, college is more than classes and a degree. It is access to knowledge, opportunities, networks, and environments I would not experience otherwise. I want to understand how systems work, especially in business, technology, and law, because I have seen how those systems can either help people or hold them back. By pursuing higher education, I am giving myself the tools to walk into those spaces prepared, not confused, and eventually be in a position to make change. This also matters because of my family. I come from a background where nothing is handed to you. You have to work for everything. I have been working since I was 14, balancing jobs, school, and leadership roles. Through that, I have seen how hard it is to get ahead without the right opportunities. I do not want to spend my life just getting by. I want stability. I want to be able to support my family and give my future kids options I did not always see growing up. I want to break cycles, not continue them. Education also represents independence for me. I want to walk into any room, whether it is a corporate office, a courtroom, or a tech company, and know I belong there. I want to be able to speak confidently, think critically, and lead without second guessing myself. My leadership roles have already shown me that people look to me and listen to me. College will help me strengthen that and use my voice in spaces where real decisions are being made. At the end of the day, I know I am capable of more. I do not want to settle for what is easy or expected. I want to challenge myself and build a life where I have real choices. Post-secondary education is how I get there.

I’ve always known how to use my voice. Computer science taught me how to build something with it. A few years ago, I would not have seen myself pursuing this path. I was known for my leadership, my energy, and how I connected with people. Tech felt like a completely different space. But when I was introduced to coding, I was challenged in a way I was not used to. I could not rely on confidence alone I had to think critically, problem-solve, and be okay with failing and trying again. At first, that frustrated me, but it also pushed me. I kept going, and that is where my interest grew. Over time, I realized computer science is more than just code. It is about creating solutions and building systems that can impact people’s lives. Coming from a community where opportunities are not always equal, that stood out to me. I do not just want to succeed in tech I want to use it to create access and opportunities for others, especially for young people who may not see themselves in these spaces. My drive is deeply connected to my personal experiences. When I was 12 years old, I lost my father during a family vacation. That moment changed my perspective on everything. It forced me to grow up quickly and taught me that time and opportunity are not guaranteed. Since then, I have carried resilience into every space I enter. I do not take opportunities lightly I maximize them. Today, I serve as president of my school’s Black Student Union, where I create spaces for students to feel seen and supported. I also work with younger students, and I’ve realized they are always watching—how I lead, how I speak, and how I show up. That responsibility motivates me to be better, not just for myself, but for them. Alongside this, I have earned over 30 college credits while still in high school, balancing academics, leadership, and work. These experiences have strengthened my discipline and determination. After earning my degree, I plan to pursue a career in software engineering, data science, or artificial intelligence. I want to solve real-world problems while also mentoring young people and creating programs that introduce them to technology early. I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because of my resilience, leadership, and commitment to growth. Everything I have experienced has shaped me into someone who does not wait for opportunities—I create them. This scholarship would not just support my education it would be an investment in someone who will turn opportunity into impact.

The first time I realized how powerful leadership could be was when I started organizing spaces for people at my school who often felt overlooked. As president of the Black Student Union and a student leader in multiple programs, I learned that leadership is not just about having a title. It is about using your voice to make sure others are heard. Those experiences shaped the type of environment I want to continue growing in, which is why I want to attend Lincoln University. My decision to attend an HBCU started long before I began applying to colleges. When the Black Common App opened, I completed that before I started the regular Common Application because I already knew I wanted to be in a space that celebrates Black culture, excellence, and community. My desire to connect with my people on a deeper level began around sixth grade, and over time that feeling only became stronger. During my junior year, I went on the Pittsburgh Sylvester Pace HBCU Tour during spring break, where we visited more than sixteen HBCUs across the East Coast. Being on those campuses felt powerful. The culture, pride, and sense of belonging among the students stood out immediately. I saw people who looked like me leading organizations, pursuing ambitious careers, and building strong communities. That experience confirmed that an HBCU environment is where I truly belong. While my original dream school was Hampton University, I also visited Lincoln University during the tour. At first, I was curious but still a little skeptical, because choosing a college is a major decision. That is why I returned during my senior year to ask deeper questions and truly see if it was the right fit for me. After spending more time on campus, Lincoln began to feel like home. The campus community felt welcoming, supportive, and family-oriented, which is the type of environment where I believe I can grow the most. Lincoln’s location also stood out to me. Being close to major cities like Philadelphia, New York City, Delaware, and New Jersey creates opportunities for internships, networking, and professional growth. At the same time, the campus is about four hours from home, which feels like the perfect balance. It is far enough away for me to gain independence and experience college life fully, but still close enough to stay connected to my support system. At Lincoln University, I plan to study Information Systems Management while preparing for law school. I am interested in technology because of the ways it shapes our society, and I want to understand the systems that influence how information, resources, and opportunities are distributed. At the same time, my long-term career goal is to become a civil rights attorney. I want to advocate for people whose voices are often ignored and work to challenge systems that create inequality. My experiences growing up and taking on leadership roles have shown me how important representation and advocacy are. In the future, I hope to combine my interest in technology with my legal career, potentially working in areas that involve digital rights, access to information, or technology policy. More importantly, I want to use my education to create opportunities for others and mentor young people who are trying to find their own path. Attending Lincoln University would allow me to continue growing as a leader while being surrounded by a community that understands the importance of culture, resilience, and excellence. I want to graduate not only with the knowledge and skills needed for my career, but also with the confidence and purpose to create meaningful change in the world.