From a young age, I’ve always been curious about how things work. Whether I was taking apart gadgets to understand their inner workings or solving complex problems in school, this curiosity ignited a lifelong passion for exploration and learning. It’s what led me to pursue a degree in STEM, specifically in computer science. For me, STEM represents more than just a career path—it’s an opportunity to innovate, solve pressing global challenges, and make a lasting impact on society. As a person of color and an international student who moved from Nigeria at the age of 10, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating spaces where I’m underrepresented. In the U.S., STEM fields have historically lacked diversity, and I’ve often been one of the few people of color in my classrooms and extracurricular activities. These experiences have been both challenging and motivating, fueling my determination to succeed and to help transform STEM into a more inclusive space. One of the reasons I am so passionate about computer science is the field’s potential to drive positive change, particularly in underrepresented communities. Technology has the power to address critical issues, from improving healthcare accessibility to bridging educational gaps. As a person of color, I feel a deep responsibility to ensure that the technology I help create is inclusive, equitable, and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. I want my work to reflect a commitment to breaking down barriers and opening doors for others who, like me, may face challenges due to their identity or circumstances. I also aspire to be a role model for young people of color who may not see themselves represented in STEM. Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me in technical fields, and I know how impactful it can be to have role models who prove that success in STEM is possible for everyone. I plan to create mentoring programs and outreach initiatives to inspire interest in STEM among students from underrepresented backgrounds. These programs could include workshops, resources, and one-on-one guidance to help young people navigate academic and career paths in science and technology. Beyond mentoring, I want to advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the development of technology itself. Too often, the lack of diverse voices in STEM results in solutions that overlook the needs of marginalized communities. In fields like artificial intelligence, for example, bias can unintentionally be embedded into algorithms, perpetuating inequalities. As a person of color in STEM, I am committed to bringing diverse perspectives to the table to ensure that the technologies we create reflect and serve the full spectrum of human experience.