From the first time I wrote code, I realized that computer science was more than a technical skill; It was a way to create access, solve problems, and reshape systems that were never built with people like me in mind. To me, computer science is not just about writing software; it is about building tools that improve lives, expand opportunity, and challenge who gets to participate in shaping the future. As an Afro-Latino student, I have often felt pressure to choose one identity over another. Instead, I have learned to embrace both. Being part of multiple communities has shaped my perspective and strengthened my desire to give back. I’ve seen how representation, or the lack of it, directly impacts who feels welcome in technical spaces. Rather than letting that discourage me, it has fueled my ambition to carve out space for myself and others in technology. At Northeastern University, I am pursuing computer science with a focus on building real-world, impactful systems. My interest in the field began with Java, where I built simple games and projects that showed me how logic and creativity intersect. Since then, I have continued developing my analytical and problem-solving skills through rigorous coursework while gaining hands-on experience as a software engineer intern in big tech. This experience exposed me to the scale and responsibility of modern software systems and confirmed my goal of building technology that serves people and not just products. Equally important to my technical growth has been my involvement in organizations dedicated to diversity and inclusion in STEM. I am an active member of NSBE and SHPE, where collaboration and mentorship are central values. Through ColorStack, where I serve as Head of Operations, I help organize initiatives that connect underrepresented students to career opportunities, resources, and professional networks that many of us did not grow up with. This role has strengthened my leadership skills and reinforced my belief that access changes outcomes. Looking ahead, I plan to continue building a career in software engineering while investing in mentorship, scholarship creation, and career guidance for students from similar backgrounds. I want to change the perception of what a software engineer looks like and show that technical excellence and community impact are not mutually exclusive. Computer science has given me the tools to imagine a better future. With continued education and opportunity, I intend to use those tools to build systems that uplift others, just as I hope this scholarship will help uplift me.

Being a first-generation college student from Dover means carrying the sacrifices of my parents while building a future they were never allowed the opportunity to pursue. My mother immigrated to the United States from Colombia, and neither of my parents attended college. They arrived in this country with limited resources but unlimited determination, believing that education could open doors that had always been closed to them. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices they made so that I could have opportunities they never had. Every class I attend and every milestone I reach represents their courage, resilience, and faith in a better future. Throughout high school, I pushed myself academically and personally because I understood the rarity and importance of opportunity. I enrolled in rigorous AP and Honors courses, often staying up late to ensure I was giving my best effort, knowing that my education was not something to take for granted. Beyond academics, I actively sought leadership and service roles that helped shape who I am today. As a member of the National Honor Society and Key Club, I learned the importance of accountability, service, and giving back to my community. Through mentoring, I discovered a passion for helping others navigate challenges similar to my own, particularly students who lacked guidance or role models in academic and career planning. These experiences taught me that success is not meaningful unless it is shared. Today, I am a Computer Science student who has interned in large tech companies. This opportunity has validated years of persistence and reinforced my ambition to build a career in technology. More importantly, it has shown me the power of access and representation. At my university, I actively help other low-income and first-generation students prepare for internships and navigate the technical interview process, offering guidance I once needed myself. Despite this progress, financial pressure remains a constant reality. To help pay for school, I work as a cashier at a local mall in Boston while also serving as a teaching assistant. Balancing these responsibilities alongside a challenging academic workload requires discipline and resilience, often limiting the time I can dedicate fully to studying or rest. However, I continue because I understand the value of opportunity and the responsibility I carry as a first-generation student. Receiving this scholarship would significantly ease this burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my education and continue excelling academically without the constant strain of financial stress. Becoming a first-generation college graduate would honor everything my parents sacrificed and stand as proof that perseverance and education can change the trajectory of a family. This scholarship would not only support my academic journey but also empower me to continue uplifting others.

During my sophomore year of college, my journey shifted in ways I could never have anticipated. My father lost his job, and the stability that I had grown up with suddenly disappeared. Overnight, my priorities changed. I began working three part-time jobs at school to help my family and cover my own tuition expenses. Between coursework, shifts, and commuting, my days often stretched into the early morning hours. I was exhausted, falling behind in classes, and struggling to keep up with everything at once. There was a moment during that year when I seriously considered taking a leave of absence. My grades were slipping below C's, and the weight of balancing work, family, and school felt unsustainable. But as difficult as that period was, it forced me to take an honest look at my habits, my motivations, and what I truly wanted from my education. I realized that if I wanted to build a better future, I had to change how I approached every aspect of my life. The first step was learning to focus. I made a decision to put aside the typical “college experience” and fully commit to growth. I reorganized my schedule to maximize my most productive hours and treated school and work like a full-time profession. I spent late nights teaching myself programming concepts, practicing coding challenges, and working on small projects that helped me understand how software could solve real-world problems. It wasn’t easy. There were many nights when I’d come home from work mentally drained but still determined to make progress, even if it meant learning just one new concept before bed. Slowly, those efforts started to pay off. Near the end, my grades began to recover, and I started applying for internships with the confidence that I had built something meaningful through discipline and persistence. That period taught me more than any single class could. I learned how to manage my time effectively, stay resilient under pressure, and maintain focus on long-term goals even when short-term challenges felt overwhelming. When I eventually secured my first internship, it was more than just professional validation; it was proof that perseverance and adaptability can turn difficult circumstances into opportunities for growth. Since then, I’ve completed several internships that have deepened my passion for engineering. I’ve worked at companies like Slack, Datadog, and Liberty Mutual. Each of these experiences reminded me why I first chose to study computer science and design: to create tools that improve people’s lives. The discipline I developed during my sophomore year became the foundation for everything that followed. What began as one of the most challenging times in my life ultimately shaped my career goals in the best way possible. More importantly, the obstacles I faced taught me empathy. I know what it feels like to struggle, to doubt yourself, and to have to push forward when everything feels uncertain. That perspective drives me to not only become a better engineer but also a more grounded person. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue that journey. As a student who independently manages tuition and living expenses, financial support would ease the burden of working long hours while studying full-time. It would give me the ability to dedicate more time to research, coursework, and personal development. My story isn’t one of overnight success. It’s a story of persistence. The lessons I learned during that time have shaped not just who I am as a student, but who I strive to be as an engineer and as a person.

As a first-generation, low-income college student, pursuing a career in engineering (specifically computer science) means more than just building software. It is a path to transform my future and the future of others in my community. I’ve always been drawn to technology's power to solve real-world problems, connect people worldwide, and simplify daily lives. Being able to contribute to that through engineering is what drives me. Computer science offers limitless opportunities to innovate, and it allows me to apply my thinking and creative ways to make meaningful change. Whether it’s designing tools that make systems more reliable or building applications that improve lives in underserved communities, I want my work to be impactful and accessible. I’m currently studying Computer Science at Northeastern University, where I’m part of the co-op program. This program has allowed me to gain valuable, hands-on industry experience that has shaped both my technical and professional growth. I’ve completed software engineering internships at Liberty Mutual, Slack, and Datadog, and I’ll be returning to Slack for another term. These roles have not only deepened my skill set but also reaffirmed my passion for engineering. At Datadog, I worked on the REDAPL Storage team, where I built server-side streaming infrastructure using Go, gRPC, and Kubernetes to support real-time data delivery. I also developed a Kafka lag monitoring tool for a key service-level objective, which reduced incident response times. At Slack, I created an eBPF program in C and Go that tapped into network headers to enhance diagnostics, contributing over 1,000 lines of code. These projects challenged me to think critically about system design, observability, and scalability. At my first internship, I interned at Liberty Mutual, where I enhanced three internal web applications used by over 200 underwriters. Using tools like React, TypeScript, and MySQL, I helped streamline workflows and contributed to a 30% improvement in efficiency. What makes engineering special to me is that it combines creativity and logic with purpose. As someone who didn't grow up surrounded by people in tech, I understand how important visibility and representation are. That’s why I also lead as Head of Operations for ColorStack @ Northeastern, a student organization dedicated to increasing the number of Black and Latinx CS graduates. I am also a mentor for HeadStart Fellowship where I help underclassmen navigate the professional world in tech. My mentee was able to get an offer from Meta with my help. Long term, I hope to use the skills I gain through my education and work experience to support other first-generation, low-income students who just need an opportunity. I want to continue building tools that improve people’s lives and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Math has always been my best subject because it turns everything into facts. In a world where so much is open to interpretation, math provides a definitive answer. This certainty is what initially drew me to the subject and has kept me fascinated ever since. Math is not just about numbers and equations; it is a universal language that underpins everything around us, from the simplest patterns in nature to the most complex technological advancements. My love for math began in elementary school when I realized multiplication was so interesting, there was always a logical path to the solution. It taught me that with persistence and logical thinking, I could solve any problem. This mindset has been invaluable, not only in my academic pursuits but in life as well. As I delved deeper into mathematics, I discovered its profound connections to other fields. In physics, math explains the fundamental laws of the universe. In computer science, algorithms and data structures are grounded in mathematical principles. Even in economics, math models market behaviors and predicts economic trends. This interdisciplinary nature of math has broadened my intellectual horizons and opened doors to diverse opportunities. Math has played a crucial role in my academic success. It helped me develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which were essential in getting into a great school. The discipline and rigor required to excel in math have translated into other areas of my life, fostering a strong work ethic and a passion for learning. Furthermore, math is filled with a source of joy and satisfaction. There is an unparalleled thrill in solving a complex problem, in unraveling the layers of a challenging equation, and in discovering the elegance of a mathematical proof. This joy is something I cherish and look forward to every day.

Computer science is the best way to improve technology and change the world. Among the different lines of code, the possibilities of developing new software, interfaces, security, etc. endless. Computer science gives people a chance to improve the world. With past experience with java, creating simple games, and ideas, prove: with more education, something big can be made. Pursuing my education in computer science is something I wanted to do. I am excited about furthering my education, as I am very interested in technology and how easy it makes people’s lives. As a critical thinker, problem solving and my complex analytical skills are all involved, this allows me to become very prepared when learning more advanced Computer Science at Northeastern University. As a person who identifies as Afro-Latino, I have continued to receive criticism from Latinx and black individuals for not choosing one side. However, I just love being a minority. I enjoy the people I meet, the similarity in cultures, and how each minority would want to help one another. My most important goal is to give back, in the form of a scholarship or career guidance, to others who are in the same position as me. To achieve this goal, I must meet it myself. Currently, I am a part of numerous organizations on campus that include NSBE, SHPE, and ColorStack (for which I am the Head of Operations). I enjoy meeting others, collaborating with other schools near me, and understanding the meaning and importance of DEI in a workspace. I need to achieve my goal of gaining the degree and securing my spot in the workspace. Computer Science builds careers for individuals like myself who thrive to make a change in technology. Technology is the most important thing in modern society. Having the prestige and honor to be called a computer scientist allows me to explore new types of technologies and jobs. I would never think I would be able to achieve. Setting myself up for professional success can open doorways to giving back to the community and showcasing my journey to students. Creating new ideas and software that can improve one’s day is something that can whole-heartedly change one’s life, and I aspire to do that. In the future, I promise I will give back. There are always people who are looking for help, and I want to be the X factor that changes someone's perspective on a software engineer.

Who am I? I am a curious, motivated, and resilient person, that is determined to make my dream of success a reality. However, being a proud African-American, I have faced many challenges throughout my life. Regardless of being overlooked and underestimated, I have to exceed the expectations of many and continue to break the stereotypes that have held me back. Growing up, I believed my parents were successful. My mother was an immigrant and my father did not even receive his high school diploma. Despite these challenges, they provided for my twin brother and me in the toughest of times. After attending a private university, I look back on their perseverance and determination. It has inspired me to pursue a career and achieve success, something they were unable to do. As a critical thinker and admire the benefit of how the world interacts with each other. I am currently studying Computer Science. I believe that the fact that computers allow people to communicate, work, and make life easier has interested me the most. In hopes of being a Software Engineer, I plan to assist companies with their solution software. Throughout my academic studies, I have realized the importance of advocating and supporting other people who look like me and are just as motivated and intelligent as I am. Attending a highly-selective school in the United States has taught me that I need to work even harder to become a leader and make a positive impact. To do this, I have joined various diversity-focused clubs at Northeastern University (ColorStack, SHPE, NSBE, etc;), which have provided me with a community of individuals who share my aspirations and want to create change. Although my hometown in Morris County, NJ may have had a horrible stigma attached to it, I am determined to be the one to break the cycle and start the change. I want to show others that success is achievable no matter where you come from or what obstacles you face. Currently, I provide advice to current seniors at my high school and help them with the college process, something that I wish I had. I want more students from my high school to succeed and reach their dream careers. By pursuing my dreams and becoming a leader in my field, I hope to inspire others who may feel overlooked or underestimated to strive for greatness. I am proud of who I am and where I come from, and I am excited about what the future holds. Currently, I am working to balance my studies with part-time jobs to help fund my education. While it is tough, I am determined to succeed. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to work fewer hours and spend more time studying and earning better grades. It will help me maintain my focus on school work and not worry about covering the costs of college. In conclusion, being a current college student is a significant milestone in my life, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. My ultimate goal is to make my family proud. Being a first-generation student, it seemed like nothing was possible for me. After attending my post-secondary school, I will graduate with a Bachelor's in Computer Science, and become a Software Engineer. With this title, I hope to connect with some of the most well-known household technology companies in the world.

Who am I? I am a curious, motivated, and resilient person, that is determined to make my dream of success a reality. However, being a proud African-American, I have faced many challenges throughout my life. Regardless of being overlooked and underestimated, I have to exceed the expectations of many and continue to break the stereotypes that have held me back. Growing up, I believed my parents were successful. My mother was an immigrant and my father did not even receive his high school diploma. Despite these challenges, they provided for my twin brother and me in the toughest of times. After attending a private university, I look back on their perseverance and determination. It has inspired me to pursue a career and achieve success, something they were unable to do. As a critical thinker and admire the benefit of how the world interacts with each other. I am currently studying Computer Science. I believe that the fact that computers allow people to communicate, work, and make life easier has interested me the most. In hopes of being a Software Engineer, I plan to assist companies with their solution software. Throughout my academic studies, I have realized the importance of advocating and supporting other people who look like me and are just as motivated and intelligent as I am. Attending a highly-selective school in the United States has taught me that I need to work even harder to become a leader and make a positive impact. To do this, I have joined various diversity-focused clubs at Northeastern University (ColorStack, SHPE, NSBE, etc;), which have provided me with a community of individuals who share my aspirations and want to create change. Although my hometown in Morris County, NJ may have had a horrible stigma attached to it, I am determined to be the one to break the cycle and start the change. I want to show others that success is achievable no matter where you come from or what obstacles you face. Currently, I provide advice to current seniors at my high school and help them with the college process, something that I wish I had. I want more students from my high school to succeed and reach their dream careers. By pursuing my dreams and becoming a leader in my field, I hope to inspire others who may feel overlooked or underestimated to strive for greatness. I am proud of who I am and where I come from, and I am excited about what the future holds. Currently, I am working to balance my studies with part-time jobs to help fund my education. While it is tough, I am determined to succeed. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to work fewer hours and spend more time studying and earning better grades. It will help me maintain my focus on school work and not worry about covering the costs of college. In conclusion, being a current college student is a significant milestone in my life, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. My ultimate goal is to make my family proud. Being a first-generation student, it seemed like nothing was possible for me. After attending my post-secondary school, I will graduate with a Bachelor's in Computer Science, and become a Software Engineer. With this title, I hope to connect with some of the most well-known household technology companies in the world.

“Your name’s Sebastian, too?” It was the ninth time I’d heard that phrase the entire day, and only about the seventeen thousandth time I had heard it. With endless responses floating above my head, I chose one randomly. “Oh, really? I didn’t know that,” I responded unenthusiastically. I always tend to believe that my name was forever unique to me, however, having friends with the same name and countless encounters made me seem more generic to others and myself. From a young age, I’ve always held a name that I considered way too ordinary. Growing up in a Hispanic community, my name has been said countless times and owned by many. The variety of encounters of people and teachers who had my name, or knew someone else who had the same name made everything a bit more confusing. Innumerable replies ensued: “Yea, we have the same name,” “That’s so cool,” “It's common.” Those were the few responses I had prepared after endless remarks on one of the most common names in my community. The most irritating part was when other people would yell out “Sebastian,” and I would turn my attention and find out they weren’t talking to/about me. Now, I don’t even bear to act. Embarrassment usually came with my name and I had learned to own up to it. Sometimes, when being the same as the rest of the crowd, it becomes super overwhelming and the rejection allows you to understand, you are the same as everyone else. Over time, I had always wondered what went through my parents’ heads when naming me. But the only answer was really to match with my twin brother’s name, Christian. I had multiple identities growing up. There was “twin”, the person who was overseen by his name.  He was always confused about who they referred to. When people ask what my name was, I would say Sebastian. Still, people would continue to say Christian which was actually my brother’s name. People who I’ve known for years still get me mixed up. Being an identical twin, my identity and name were never viewed, but compared. The next was Sebas. My dad always considered naming me Sebas, but it was because my father always used “Sebas” in his passwords, he figured it was the best way to remember. Inspired by his anecdotes, I continued to own up to the nickname. This one was tough because others also called other Sebastian(s) ‘Sebas,’ and I was still confused. Lastly, was the name Skips. The name was pinned on my mental wall for as long as I could remember. My goldfish was named Skips, my Xbox gamertag was Skips, and my Snapchat username was also Skips. This name had no special meaning, except for my belief that it was cool, since it was related to Regular Show. If asked why my name was “Skips,” I wouldn’t have to go into my bag of responses, because it would be non-existent. Gradually, I grew out of hating my true name. Having a name doesn’t define who you are, but what you do defines your name to yourself. Even though my name reached peak popularity, it gives the chance to initiate conversations. From small talk at school to deep discussions about life and friends at church. Many translations of my name seemed initially meaningless to me; the ability to understand that I am special, has helped me embrace the Latin meaning of my name. Now, I have forever been unapologetically calling myself by the name I was proudly given, Sebastian.

Night by Elie Wiesel is a story explained from the perspective of Eliezer (named after the author), part of a family of Jews, who go through the hardships of living during the holocaust and sharing his loss of humanity. The story begins with the family in Transylvanian (their hometown), the home of Jewish individuals, which contains deep ties to the family. Hitler has begun his quest and all Jews are in jeopardy. Soon after, they are relocated to the Jewish ghetto to escape the Nazis. Upon entry, Eliezer and his father lie to be put to "work" and not enter the crematory. As the story goes on, Eliezer explains the cruel conditions where they are put and feels like he's never going to get out. His unanswered prayers continue to climb his back and feels like all hope has been thrown away. Eliezer had shown his sympathy and forgiveness throughout the story. It became more notorious that his lack of care came from the setting, and his inability to reject the possibility of death. Eliezer's honesty and minimal complaining allow him to be above others in the story against pressures from the Nazis, making him a character that I appreciate. Finally, the story ends in Buchenwald, after completing a mission in a village issued by the Nazis. The sudden ending allows suspense to be made. Night allows the reader to be brought into the Holocaust and understand the experience and struggles. After closing the hardcover, I became more aware of how it relates to modern society. Losing humanity is something everyone experiences. Whether it is about racial injustice, losing a close person, or not accepting others for what they believe in. Losing humanity in others/ourselves is a characteristic we all experience, but we never realize it.

My greatest achievement is getting into college and making my family proud. Being successful and changing the world seemed impossible to me. However, it is no longer a fantasy to me. Many would argue that it is very immature of me to say that, but it isn’t. I was always taught that education can make someone very successful, and I live by that. My education at Dover High School is something that I hold dear to myself. Using my education was a way to branch out and meet other people. I worked enough and it has gotten to where I am today. With the opportunity to attend and achieve a college education, the possibility of impacting the world is now at my fingertips. Being a first-generation student, I feel that I will be able to relate to those who don’t (or didn’t) have the motivation and the resources to gain a college education. Having attended Northeastern University, I will be able to gain all resources to help increase innovation and productivity in the world. First and foremost, creating websites to guide and aid all individuals in the college process would be a priority. Anyone can reach their dreams, and my assistance and experiences would be able to benefit someone. Next, as the world develops, I would continue to express the importance of STEM. Engineering/Sciences are one of the least favorite major(s) in which students would generally take. Innovation in technology is developing and students need to take advantage. Through my complex understanding of Data Structure and Computer Science, I will be able to create and establish ideas for future generations. As a graduate, I will contact the “next generation” through public speaking, assisting, and preparing the “next kin” of software engineers. Although my journey has been very rough: working four different jobs throughout high school, maintaining a high GPA, and taking care of my grandparents, I will not stop. With my positive attitude and perseverance toward education, being on the dean’s list at my university is something I plan to achieve. Finally, I will also show the importance of what it means to be a ‘leader’ in today’s society. Leaders and Innovators are the ones that create change in the world and I want to let everyone know that they can help change the world. It just takes dedication and effort. Although I may be set up for success, there is a chance I may fail. I believe I have no choice but to try my hardest. Seeing the endless possibilities that a “child from Dover” can have is something I want to extend to all children. A small percentage of Dover graduates attend a “Top-Tier University”, and I want to change that. Most importantly, my education will make a difference for future scholars and those who come from similar backgrounds. All of the achievements that I have gained will not be complete until I am able to influence others. Having the ability to say “I changed someone’s perspective on education”, would mean that I completely made a difference and hope that everyone can take into consideration that education is important.

Computer Science is the best way to improve technology and change the world. Among the different lines of code, the possibilities of developing new software, interface, security, etc, are endless. Computer science allows people a chance to improve the world. Past experience with java, creating simple games, and ideas, prove: that with more education, something big can be made. Pursuing my education in computer science is something I wanted to do. I am excited about furthering my education as I am very interested in technology and how easily it makes people’s lives. As a critical thinker, problem-solving and my complex analytical skills are all involved, this allows me to become very prepared when learning more advanced Computer Science at Northeastern University. Computer Science builds careers for individuals like myself who thrive to make a change in technology. Technology is the most important thing in modern society. Having the prestige and honor to be called, Computer Scientist, allows me to explore new types of technologies and jobs, I would never think I would be able to achieve. Setting myself up for professional success can open doorways to giving back to the community and showcase my journey to students. Creating new ideas and software that can improve one’s day is something that can whole-heartedly change one’s life, and I aspire to do that. Going forward, college is something that I always wanted to be a part of. The atmosphere, degree, and networking are something that can only be achieved through attending a top-tier university. As a first-generation student, I will make my parents proud of my accomplishments. Attending numerous club meetings, discovering new hobbies, and meeting new people is something I achieved as a high school student, and plan to do more in the next chapter of my life. I believe that being selected for a scholarship will ultimately help me achieve my goal of being a successful software engineer. Having the opportunity to attend Northeastern University will prepare me for the future. The ability to not attend due to money-related issues is something that I would not hope for. Although I believe I have made a change in my community and school, this scholarship would help me realize my goal of helping those who are next. Once attending college, I can help other first-generation students and guide them to a similar path as mine. With that being said, I am currently working two jobs to help fund my education. A scholarship would allow me to work fewer hours and spend more time studying and earning better grades. Although money is a big issue in attending a top-tier university, I hope receiving the scholarship will help maintain my focus on school work and not part-time jobs to cover the costs. While in college, I will continue to work part-time and pay off loans that I will receive. Working very much has taken a toll on me, however, funding my education will pay off in the long run.

Volunteering is important to students because it promotes change in one’s community, establishes leadership, and creates long-lasting relationships that are essential further down the road. In addition to the most common reason for “building your resume”, it allows one to be recognized. Becoming well-known for your commitment to helping others, helps you realize the importance of assisting others and the character it builds. It helps students “open up” and become occupied, knowing they are bringing something positive into their lives. Having leadership skills as a teen is very beneficial for many reasons. Most importantly, building self-confidence. Having this “trait” is something that is needed to become successful. Those who succeed, believe in themselves and can only be built through hard work and leadership experience. Those who are self-confident also can deal with problems and conflicts, rather than ignoring and passing problems to others. Leadership involves influencing others and self-confidence allows the leader to feel assured of their responsibility. Volunteerism has the power to create a mutually beneficial relationship between students and organizations. Organizations are provided with cost-free service by their volunteers. Usually, these organizations are non-profit, which means that they are an organization operated for a collective, public or social benefit. All individuals who assist are generally there to make a change in their environment. People from many different backgrounds and experiences could also influence the student who chooses to participate. Networking is very important in the 21st Century, and volunteering is one of the best ways to gain that experience, along with its other benefits. Students should volunteer to help the community, and gain experience, but most importantly themselves. As a student from Dover High School, I always felt there were no volunteering opportunities. Trying to build up my resume for college, I searched constantly for volunteer positions. With no progress, it was brought to my attention: I needed to go to the town hall and see if anyone could help. There, I spoke with many members (including Mayor Blackman). There I discovered, Table of Hope, a non-profit organization that had a food drive in Dover. I attended, it would change my view on helping others. Since that day, I have dedicated myself to Table of Hope for over 100 community service hours. Met countless staff members including Meredith Davison and Lavern. With my hard-working attitude and great personality, they invited me to a recognizing event hosted by CCM (County College of Morris), where I was recognized by the entire Morris County, the Town Of Dover, and as well the sheriff of Morris County. With that being said, I didn't want to stop. In addition to volunteering at Table of Hope, I also participated in annual Town of Dover Events, including the Dover Clean-Up and Dover “Eggstravaganza”. I connected with my community and it was the most important thing to me. Mayor Blackman also recognized me in a town meeting and awarded me with a certificate of “Volunteer of the Year”. Soon, the entire town staff knew who I was and what I brought to the community. Endless connections, establishing leadership, and helping others was something I loved doing. In spite of COVID taking place for the majority of my volunteering, my goal was also to give others the opportunity to volunteer. Volunteering in Dover has made me realize that many families do not have the benefits as others. Being beneficial to the community allowed me to become recognized, and learn the value of volunteering. Getting to know other people who also love “helping others” is something that made a difference in my eyes.

Being successful and changing the world seemed impossible to me. However, it is no longer a fantasy to me. Many would argue that it is very immature of me to say that, but it isn’t. I was always taught that education can make someone very successful, and I live by that. My education at Dover High School is something that I hold dear to myself. Using my education was a way to branch out and meet other people. I worked enough and it has gotten to where I am today. With the opportunity to attend and achieve a college education, the possibility of impacting the world is now at my fingertips. Being a first-generation student, I feel that I will be able to relate to those who don’t (or didn’t) have the motivation and the resources to gain a college education. Having attended Northeastern University, I will be able to gain all resources to help increase innovation and productivity in the world. First and foremost, creating websites to guide and aid all individuals in the college process would be a priority. Anyone can reach their dreams, and my assistance and experiences would be able to benefit someone. Next, as the world develops, I would continue to express the importance of STEM. Engineering/Sciences are one of the least favorite major(s) in which students would generally take. Innovation in technology is developing and students need to take advantage. Through my complex understanding of Data Structure and Computer Science, I will be able to create and establish ideas for future generations. As a graduate, I will contact the “next generation” through public speaking, assisting, and preparing the “next kin” of software engineers. Although my journey has been very rough: working four different jobs throughout high school, maintaining a high GPA, and taking care of my grandparents, I will not stop. With my positive attitude and perseverance toward education, being on the dean’s list at my university is something I plan to achieve. Finally, I will also show the importance of what it means to be a ‘leader’ in today’s society. Leaders and Innovators are the ones that create change in the world and I want to let everyone know that they can help change the world. It just takes dedication and effort. Although I may be set up for success, there is a chance I may fail. I believe I have no choice but to try my hardest. Seeing the endless possibilities that a “child from Dover” can have is something I want to extend to all children. A small percentage of Dover graduates attend an “R1 Top-Tier University”, and I want to change that. Most importantly, my education will make a difference for future scholars and those who come from similar backgrounds. All of the achievements that I have gained will not be complete until I am able to influence others. Having the ability to say “I changed someone’s perspective on education”, would mean that I completely made a difference and hope that everyone can take into consideration that education is important.

Computer Science is the best way to improve technology and change the world. Among the different lines of code, the possibilities of developing new software, interface, security, etc, are endless. Computer science allows people a chance to improve the world. Past experience with java, creating simple games, and ideas, prove: that with more education, something big can be made. Pursuing my education in computer science is something I wanted to do. I am excited about furthering my education as I am very interested in technology and how easily it makes people’s lives. As a critical thinker, problem-solving and my complex analytical skills are all involved, this allows me to become very prepared when learning more advanced Computer Science at Northeastern University. Computer Science builds careers for individuals like myself who thrive to make a change in technology. Technology is the most important thing in modern society. Having the prestige and honor to be called, Computer Scientist, allows me to explore new types of technologies and jobs, I would never think I would be able to achieve it. Setting myself up for professional success can open doors to giving back to the community and showcasing my journey to students. Creating new ideas and software that can improve one’s day is something that can whole-heartedly change one’s life, and I aspire to do that.