From the moment I learned how bridges and roads connect entire cities, I realized that engineering is more than math and blueprints; it is a way to build hope. Every lane, crosswalk, and highway can either connect people or keep them divided. My goal as a future civil engineer is to create transportation systems that do not just move traffic but move communities forward. Growing up in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Atlanta, I saw firsthand how poor infrastructure affected people’s daily lives. Some streets did not have sidewalks, which made it unsafe for children to walk to school. Buses ran late, forcing people to walk long distances to work. Potholes damaged cars, and flooding after heavy rain made roads impossible to use. It was clear that the condition of a neighborhood often determined the opportunities people could access. Those experiences are what drive my passion for civil engineering today. After college, I plan to focus my career on improving transportation systems, especially in underserved areas like the one I grew up in. I want to help design safer, more reliable roads, bridges, and public transportation routes that make it easier for people to access education, jobs, and healthcare. My dream is to work with city planners and local leaders in Atlanta to create infrastructure that not only supports growth but also reflects equity and fairness. Transportation may not sound personal to everyone, but to me it is deeply connected to community empowerment. When people have access to safe roads and dependable transit, they have access to opportunity. Better systems mean parents can get to work on time, students can reach school safely, and emergency services can respond faster. It is not just about construction; it is about connection. Currently, I volunteer and collaborate with different engineering student groups on the Marietta campus, where I participate in discussions, projects, and events that help me better understand the field of engineering. These experiences allow me to learn directly from peers who share my goals, while also developing teamwork and problem-solving skills that I will carry into my future career. Being surrounded by motivated students who want to improve the world through engineering constantly reminds me why I chose this path in the first place. The Trees for Tuition Scholarship represents exactly what I believe in: growth, renewal, and giving back. Just like trees strengthen the environment around them, I want to strengthen the community that raised me. Through my civil engineering degree, I plan to turn my education into action, building safer, greener, and more connected spaces for everyone. In the future, when people drive through a newly built street or cross a bridge that connects two parts of the city, I want them to feel the same pride and security I dreamed about as a kid. Because to me, civil engineering is not just about creating structures; it is about creating pathways to opportunity, equality, and lasting change.

My passion for STEM and leadership started with a simple box of popsicle sticks. In fifth grade, my class was assigned a project to build a bridge that could hold as much weight as possible using only popsicle sticks and glue. At first, it sounded easy. I loved building things, but I quickly learned that it was more challenging than I expected and that real leadership sometimes comes from mistakes, patience, and teamwork. When I started my bridge, I had a design in mind that I thought would be perfect. I built it by myself, rushing to get it done early. But during testing day, my bridge collapsed under barely any weight. I was embarrassed and frustrated, especially since I had been confident in my design. While some students laughed or moved on, I stayed after school to figure out what went wrong. My teacher, who noticed my determination, encouraged me to rebuild the bridge, but this time with a team. Working with two classmates taught me more than I expected. We discussed different designs, studied what made real bridges strong, and divided up responsibilities. I focused on reinforcing the base with trusses after learning that triangles help spread out weight evenly. On testing day, our new bridge held almost triple the weight of my first one. It wasn’t just stronger, it represented what happens when you combine leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. That experience planted the first seed of my dream to become a civil engineer, especially one focused on transportation systems. I realized that bridges, roads, and transit systems are more than just structures; they connect people, communities, and opportunities. Without strong infrastructure, people can’t get to work, schools can’t function, and emergency vehicles can’t reach those in need. As I have grown older, I have started paying closer attention to the transportation challenges around me. I notice potholes that cause traffic delays, highways that flood easily during storms, and areas where sidewalks are missing or unsafe. I have learned that engineers and emergency management teams work together to solve these problems, making sure transportation systems are safe and reliable, especially during natural disasters or emergencies. That connection between engineering and crisis management inspires me. Now that I am in college pursuing a degree in civil engineering, I am more focused than ever on using STEM to make a real difference in the world. My goal is to design safer bridges, roads, and transit networks that can handle heavy traffic, natural disasters, and the impacts of climate change. I also want to study how emergency response routes can be improved so ambulances, fire trucks, and disaster teams can reach people faster when every second counts. Leadership to me means using my skills to make life better for others. From the popsicle bridge that broke to the one that held strong, I have learned that failure is just part of growth and that true innovation comes from perseverance and collaboration. Those lessons continue to guide how I approach challenges in school and in life. Receiving the Dr. Terran Jordan International Excellence in Leadership, STEM & Emergency Management Scholarship would mean more than just financial help. It would be recognition that the same curiosity and determination that started with popsicle sticks can grow into something much bigger: a career that builds stronger, safer, and more connected communities around the world. I want to be part of the next generation of engineers who lead with creativity, resilience, and compassion. In the end, leadership is not just about solving problems; it is about building bridges, both literally and figuratively, that bring people together.

Since I was young, I’ve always been curious about how things work—especially the things we often take for granted, like roads, bridges, and buildings. I remember driving through construction zones and wondering how engineers planned every detail to make sure things were safe and functional. Over time, that curiosity grew into a passion for STEM, particularly civil engineering. I’m drawn to this field because it allows me to solve real-world problems and improve the way people live and move through their communities. What excites me most about STEM is its power to create, innovate, and impact lives. STEM isn’t just about numbers or formulas—it’s about building solutions. Whether it’s developing sustainable infrastructure, creating safer transportation systems, or designing flood-resistant buildings, civil engineering gives me the tools to help people on a large scale. I want to be part of the generation that builds a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future. I plan to major in civil engineering in college and focus on gaining both technical knowledge and hands-on experience. I’m especially interested in learning how engineering intersects with environmental sustainability. With the increasing threats of climate change and natural disasters, communities need infrastructure that can withstand extreme conditions and protect lives. I want to learn how to design systems that not only meet today’s needs but also prepare for the challenges of tomorrow. While academics will be a big part of my college journey, I also plan to pursue internships, join engineering clubs, and take part in community-focused projects. Gaining real-world experience will help me grow as both a student and a future professional. My goal is to graduate with a strong foundation, a completed internship, and a clear path toward a career in the civil engineering field. After college, I want to use my degree to work on projects that make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s helping design more efficient public transportation, improving roads in underserved areas, or working on water infrastructure in developing communities, I want my work to benefit others. One of my biggest goals is to be financially stable while doing work that matters—and to eventually give back to the communities that supported me along the way. Beyond my career, I also want to be a role model for other young people, especially girls and students of color, who may not see themselves represented in STEM. I plan to volunteer, mentor, and speak to students about the importance of education and the possibilities that STEM careers offer. Representation and encouragement can change someone’s future, and I hope to be that source of motivation for others. In every step of my journey—through my studies, career, and community involvement—I plan to use my passion for STEM and civil engineering to create lasting change. I’m driven not just by what I can achieve, but by the impact I can make. For me, engineering is more than a career path—it’s a purpose.

Growing up, I’ve always been aware of the challenges that many people in my community face. Whether it’s limited access to resources, education, or support systems, I’ve seen how these barriers can hold people back—especially those in underserved neighborhoods. Although I haven’t launched a large-scale project yet, I’ve taken initiative in the ways I can, using my time, leadership, and skills to make a positive impact where it’s needed most. One way I’ve stepped up is by mentoring and supporting younger students at my school—especially girls and students of color who sometimes struggle to see themselves in academic or leadership roles. As a student-athlete and someone who excels academically, I understand the power of visibility. I try to lead by example, but I also go further by offering to tutor, help with assignments, or simply talk with students who need advice or encouragement. For some of them, just knowing someone is in their corner makes a huge difference. I’ve seen their confidence grow, and that motivates me to continue being a role model. I’ve also volunteered with local food drives and school supply donation events, especially during back-to-school season. These events are often targeted at families in need—many of whom are juggling multiple jobs or struggling to keep up with expenses. I helped organize collections, sort donations, and distribute supplies directly to students and parents. Though these efforts may seem small, I know how meaningful it is for a student to start the school year with everything they need to succeed. These experiences have deepened my understanding of community service—not just as charity, but as a way of restoring dignity and opportunity. Another self-initiated project I’m proud of is speaking up about college and career opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. When I realized how few students at my school were aware of programs, scholarships, or internships in engineering, I began sharing information and encouraging others to apply. I’ve helped classmates with applications, edited essays, and even presented to small groups about the benefits of choosing a career in the trades or engineering. I hope to turn this into a larger peer-led initiative in the future—something more structured and consistent that gives students access to resources they may not get elsewhere. Looking ahead, I plan to continue serving marginalized communities through civil engineering. My long-term goal is to work on infrastructure projects that directly impact low-income and underserved areas—things like affordable housing developments, clean water systems, and safer roads. I want to make sure that my work doesn’t just benefit the wealthy or well-connected, but truly serves people who need it the most. I also hope to one day create scholarship or mentoring programs for young women and underrepresented students interested in engineering. Even though I’m still a student, I’ve learned that you don’t need a title or a big platform to make a difference. All it takes is a willingness to act, listen, and support others where they are. That’s a lesson I carry with me every day—and one I plan to build on in the future.

Being a female athlete has shaped me in powerful ways. Balancing sports, school, and life has not only made me stronger physically and mentally, but it has also taught me how to stand confidently in spaces where I may be underestimated simply because I’m a young woman. In a world that often sees strength, leadership, and dominance as male traits, sports have helped me prove otherwise—both to others and to myself. Playing sports has pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Practices, games, and training sessions require discipline, commitment, and resilience. It’s not easy to show up every day and give 100%, especially while maintaining good grades and managing personal responsibilities. But being part of a team has taught me time management, focus, and how to keep going even when I’m tired or overwhelmed. These are life skills I carry into the classroom, into leadership roles, and into the challenges I face as a young woman pursuing a future in a male-dominated field like engineering. I’ve experienced moments where my efforts were overlooked or my ability was questioned—not because I wasn’t capable, but because I was a girl. Those moments only motivated me to push harder. I’ve learned to speak up for myself, compete with confidence, and let my performance speak louder than anyone’s doubts. Sports have given me the platform to lead, to earn respect, and to show that strength doesn’t have a gender. Balancing athletics and academics has also taught me how to prioritize and stay grounded. I’ve had to make sacrifices, stay organized, and hold myself accountable—qualities that have helped me succeed both on and off the field. I’m proud to be at the top of my class while also being a committed athlete. This balance has made me stronger and more prepared for the real world, where I know I’ll have to continue proving myself, especially in competitive and male-dominated spaces. In the future, I plan to enter civil engineering, a field where women are still underrepresented. But because of my experience in sports, I don’t see that as a reason to be intimidated—I see it as a reason to lead. I want to show young girls that they belong in every room, on every team, and in every profession. I hope to use my voice and example to inspire others to go after their goals, no matter the obstacles. Being a female athlete has helped me embrace challenges, build confidence, and develop resilience. It’s taught me that being strong means more than just winning—it means showing up, working hard, and lifting others up along the way. I’m proud of the woman I’m becoming, and I know that the strength I’ve built through sports will carry me through every challenge I face in the future.

Growing up, I’ve had to become aware of finances at a young age. Like many families, mine had to be careful with how money was spent, which taught me the value of budgeting, saving, and being responsible with every dollar. I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can affect not just day-to-day life but also long-term planning. These experiences helped me understand the importance of financial education and inspired me to take control of my own financial future. I wasn’t formally taught much about money in school, but I learned a lot through real-life experiences. From helping my family manage basic expenses to making decisions about how to spend money I earned through part-time work or sports-related opportunities, I’ve developed a basic understanding of financial priorities. I’ve learned to ask important questions before spending—“Do I need this?” “Can it wait?” “Is there a smarter way to use this money?” This mindset has helped me stay disciplined, even with limited resources. Although I’ve made progress, I know I still have a lot to learn. That’s why I plan to take advantage of financial literacy resources in college. I want to understand more about credit, loans, taxes, investing, and long-term planning so I can build a strong financial foundation. With the cost of college, student loans, and everyday expenses, I know I’ll need to stay focused and make smart decisions. My goal is to graduate with as little debt as possible and to be financially stable shortly after starting my career. I plan to use what I learn to make wise choices in my personal life—like saving for emergencies, avoiding unnecessary debt, and eventually investing for my future. I want to own a home one day, help support my family, and even start a business if the opportunity arises. Financial education will help me not only avoid common pitfalls but also take advantage of opportunities that come my way. Beyond just helping myself, I want to use my knowledge to educate others in my community. Financial literacy isn’t something everyone grows up with, and it’s often overlooked in schools. I believe that even basic financial knowledge—like how to budget, save, or build credit—can change lives. In the future, I want to lead workshops, speak to youth groups, or even start programs that help young people and families make smarter financial decisions. I want to help others avoid the struggles I’ve seen and empower them to build better futures for themselves. In conclusion, my personal experiences with finances have taught me that financial education is not just about numbers—it’s about freedom, opportunity, and peace of mind. By learning more and applying that knowledge, I can build a secure future for myself and help others do the same. Whether through my career, my community involvement, or my personal example, I plan to use financial literacy as a tool for growth, stability, and giving back.

I believe that making a positive impact on your community doesn’t require waiting until you’ve “made it.” While I have big dreams for after college, I’ve already started laying the foundation by staying involved, leading by example, and helping those around me. I want to continue this path and eventually use my career in civil engineering to create meaningful, lasting change in my community and beyond. Right now, I try to make my community better by staying engaged in school, volunteering when possible, and being someone others can rely on. As a student-athlete and someone who takes academics seriously, I know that younger students watch how I carry myself. I work hard to set a strong example—staying disciplined, showing respect, and encouraging others to reach their full potential. I also help out with community events and school activities when I can. These experiences have taught me that even small actions—like tutoring a classmate or supporting a local fundraiser—can have a ripple effect. Looking ahead, I want to use my passion for civil engineering to create real change. My goal is to work on projects that directly improve people’s lives—things like safer roads, better public transportation, or more sustainable infrastructure. I want to work in communities that are often overlooked and bring quality, affordable, and safe development to those areas. Whether it’s a new bridge or a clean water system, I want the things I help build to serve a purpose and make life better for the people who use them. Beyond my job, I also want to stay connected to my community through mentorship and outreach. I know how hard it can be to figure out your future, especially when you don’t have many role models in the field you’re interested in. After college, I plan to speak at schools, help students apply to STEM programs, and offer internships or shadowing opportunities if I’m in a position to do so. I want to help young people see that a career in engineering—or any trade—is possible for them, no matter where they come from. One of my long-term goals is to be able to invest in my community not just with my time, but also financially. I want to support local programs, sponsor scholarships, or help fund community development projects. Giving back isn’t just something I want to do on the side—it’s part of the life I want to build for myself. Success to me means more than just a good paycheck. It means making a difference and lifting others up as I climb. In the end, whether it’s through the projects I design, the people I mentor, or the programs I support, I plan to keep giving back. I want to help build a stronger, safer, and more connected world, starting with the community that helped raise me.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by the way things are built—from roads and bridges to homes and schools. I’ve always found myself asking questions about how infrastructure works and how it shapes the way people live. As I grew older, I realized that my curiosity had developed into a deeper interest in engineering, especially civil engineering. This field allows me to combine my love for problem-solving with a desire to create structures that improve people’s daily lives. My passion for civil engineering comes from wanting to build more than just physical structures—I want to help build stronger, safer, and more sustainable communities. Civil engineering is a trade that directly impacts the world around us. Roads, buildings, water systems, and public transportation all fall under this field. I’m drawn to the idea that something I design or help build could be used by thousands of people every day. The idea that I could contribute to something lasting and meaningful motivates me to pursue this career. I’m especially interested in the environmental side of civil engineering—how we can create systems that reduce waste, manage water responsibly, and protect people from natural disasters. I believe that as our world continues to grow and change, engineers will play a crucial role in making that growth sustainable and safe. One of the reasons I’m so passionate about this trade is because it gives me a clear way to give back. My community has played a huge part in shaping the person I am today, and I want to return that support. After college, I plan to use my education and skills to make a real impact in the areas that need it most. Whether it’s working on infrastructure in underserved neighborhoods, helping to rebuild after a natural disaster, or improving transportation access for people in rural areas, I want my work to serve others. In addition to working on impactful projects, I also plan to give back through mentorship and education. As someone who didn’t always know how to navigate the path to a professional career, I want to help guide the next generation of students who are interested in engineering or trades. I plan to volunteer at local schools, offer workshops, and create opportunities for young people to explore careers in STEM. Representation and mentorship matter, and I want to be someone others can look to for guidance and support. In the long run, I hope to not only be successful in my career but also to use that success to uplift others. Whether it’s through donating time, resources, or expertise, I am committed to making a difference. Civil engineering is not just a job for me—it’s a way to leave a positive and lasting impact on the world and on the community that helped raise me. My passion for civil engineering is deeply rooted in a desire to serve, build, and improve. It’s a career path that challenges me, inspires me, and offers endless opportunities to give back. I’m excited to learn, grow, and one day be in a position to help others do the same.

Throughout my life, I’ve always been drawn to the idea of building and improving the world around me. Whether it was stacking blocks as a child or helping family members with small home projects, I’ve always been curious about how structures are designed and constructed. This curiosity naturally developed into a passion for engineering, specifically civil engineering. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I’m excited to pursue a degree in civil engineering and turn that passion into a career. In college, I plan to fully immerse myself in the study of civil engineering. I’m particularly interested in learning how infrastructure is designed to be both safe and sustainable. I want to understand how transportation systems, bridges, buildings, and water systems are built and maintained to serve communities efficiently. I’m excited to take advantage of hands-on learning experiences, from lab experiments to group design projects, and I also hope to get involved in engineering organizations and research opportunities on campus. Outside of the classroom, I plan to seek out internships during my college years. Gaining real-world experience is important to me because I want to graduate not only with knowledge but also with practical skills that will prepare me for the workforce. My goal is to complete at least one internship before I graduate so I can build professional connections, strengthen my resume, and better understand the demands of the field. I believe internships are a key stepping stone to finding a full-time job after college. After earning my degree, I plan to secure a position in the civil engineering field, ideally working on infrastructure projects that have a lasting impact on communities. My dream is to contribute to projects that make everyday life better and safer for people—projects like highway improvements, flood protection systems, or urban development planning. Over time, I hope to specialize in a specific area, perhaps transportation or environmental engineering, and work toward earning my professional engineering license. One of my long-term goals is to achieve financial stability through a fulfilling career, but I also want to use my success to give back. I come from a community that has supported me throughout my journey, and I want to return the favor. Whether it’s through mentoring students, supporting local STEM programs, or volunteering my time and skills on community projects, I want to make a difference beyond just my professional work. In summary, I’m driven, passionate, and ready to take on the challenges of college and beyond. Civil engineering is more than just a major for me—it’s a pathway to a meaningful career and a way to positively impact the world around me. I’m committed to working hard, staying focused, and using every opportunity to grow, learn, and give back.

Mental health struggles are a deeply personal experience that can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. These challenges often manifest as feelings of sadness, anxiety, loneliness, or a sense of being overwhelmed. For many people, the journey of navigating these struggles is long and full of setbacks, but it can also be one of great growth and transformation. One of the most common mental health struggles is depression. This condition can make it feel as though everything in life has lost its color, leaving individuals feeling stuck in a cycle of despair. When I was first facing these feelings, I didn’t know how to get out of the darkness. I often withdrew from social interactions, felt constant fatigue, and struggled to find motivation for even the simplest tasks. There were days when I questioned my worth and wondered whether I would ever feel joy again. The first step toward overcoming these feelings was acknowledging that I was struggling. It can be incredibly difficult to admit when you’re not okay, especially when society often places value on appearing “fine.” However, opening up to trusted friends, family members, or professionals marked a crucial turning point. I realized that asking for help didn’t make me weak—it made me human. The process of sharing my thoughts and feelings, whether with a therapist or a close friend, was freeing and allowed me to see my struggles from a new perspective. Alongside reaching out for help, I also worked on building healthier habits. Depression often leaves you feeling physically drained, so I focused on small, manageable steps to care for my body. I prioritized sleep, worked on eating balanced meals, and incorporated exercise into my routine. Physical activity, even something as simple as a walk, has been shown to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Over time, these small habits began to accumulate and have a significant positive impact on my mental health. Another key aspect of recovery was confronting my negative thought patterns. Negative self-talk can reinforce feelings of inadequacy, fear, or worthlessness.By identifying irrational or unhelpful thoughts, I learned to replace them with more realistic and compassionate perspectives. Instead of thinking, “I’ll never get better,” I started to say, “This is tough, but I can take small steps to improve.” Mindfulness practices also played a vital role. Learning to stay present, rather than worrying about the future or ruminating on the past, gave me a sense of control over my emotions. Meditation and deep breathing exercises helped me manage anxiety and reduce the overwhelming stress that often accompanied my struggles. One of the lessons I learned throughout this process was that healing is not linear. There were times when I thought I had made significant progress, only to find myself overwhelmed again. These setbacks were frustrating, but they taught me the importance of self-compassion. I learned to treat myself with kindness and patience, just as I would treat a friend going through the same experience. I also learned that seeking help is not a sign of failure; it’s a brave act of self-care and a commitment to one’s well-being. Ultimately, the greatest lesson I learned was that mental health struggles do not define a person. They are part of the human experience, but they do not have to control or limit the way we live our lives. With the right support, coping strategies, and resilience, it is possible to move forward. My journey taught me the power of vulnerability, self-compassion, and perseverance, and these lessons continue to guide me as I navigate life’s challenges.