Growing up, stability was something I rarely experienced. I moved through hotels, apartments, and foster homes, and there were times when I didn’t know where my next meal would come from. I had to navigate childhood challenges that no one should have to face, from abuse and neglect to learning how to survive on my own. Those experiences were difficult, but they also taught me resilience, self-reliance, and the importance of helping others who are struggling. Because of what I’ve been through, I’ve made it my mission to support students and community members who face similar obstacles. In high school, I got involved with Youth in Philanthropy and Expose Excellence, where I helped design programs to mentor students who lacked guidance and access to resources. I organized workshops, events, and activities that introduced students to opportunities in STEM, leadership, and scholarships. I wanted them to feel seen, to know that their circumstances don’t define their potential, and to have tools to pursue their goals. Beyond structured programs, I’ve tried to step up wherever I see a need. At school, I support peers in extracurricular activities, help with events, and lend guidance to those who feel overlooked. I volunteer at church, mentoring younger students and giving my time to help families in the community. Every action I take is shaped by my understanding of what it’s like to be underserved — small gestures of support can make a huge difference. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that leadership is about more than directing others; it’s about listening, acting, and creating spaces where people feel valued. It’s about noticing what’s missing and working to fill the gap, especially for those who might not have anyone advocating for them. I try to approach every project and every interaction with that mindset, turning my past challenges into motivation to help others succeed. Looking ahead, I plan to study civil engineering, combining technical knowledge with my desire to improve communities. I hope to design and build spaces that are safe, accessible, and resilient, while also continuing to mentor students from marginalized backgrounds. I want to leave a tangible impact — structures that help people and programs that inspire them. I believe that the best way to honor the struggles I’ve faced is by turning them into opportunities for others. By using what I’ve learned to lift up those around me, I hope to be a trailblazer in both my career and my community, creating paths where none existed before.

I’ve always believed that the ways we face challenges and care for others define who we are. Growing up, my family faced hardships that shaped my perspective on life. There were times of instability, foster care, and struggles that tested my patience and perseverance. Even with these challenges, my step-mom, who I consider my real mom, showed me what it means to stay strong and care for others. Her example taught me that adversity doesn’t have to define you — it can teach you resilience, empathy, and the importance of lifting others up. Education has been my path to creating a better future, not just for myself but for the people around me. I plan to pursue a degree in civil engineering, combining my love for problem-solving and building with a desire to make a tangible difference in communities. I want to design and construct spaces that are safe, functional, and accessible, helping improve the lives of the people who use them every day. My goal is to turn challenges into opportunities, creating structures that support communities the way my family and mentors have supported me. I also hope to use my education to give back in more personal ways. Through my leadership roles at school — including Student Council, Youth in Philanthropy, and Expose Excellence — I’ve learned that even small acts of service can have a lasting impact. Whether mentoring younger students, organizing school events, or volunteering in my community, I try to model the kind of compassion and dedication I’ve received from the people who shaped me. These experiences have taught me that education is more than grades or degrees; it’s a tool to uplift others and create opportunities where they might not exist. Overcoming adversity has made me patient, persistent, and committed. I know what it feels like to struggle and wonder if anyone will notice or care, and that drives me to be someone who does notice and cares. By pursuing my education, I hope to make the world a little brighter and more stable for those around me — whether through my work in engineering, my leadership, or my efforts to inspire others to pursue their goals despite obstacles. I want to honor Vanessa’s legacy by approaching life with kindness, creativity, and dedication. Like her, I aim to leave a positive mark on the people I encounter, helping them feel seen, supported, and capable. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education and strengthen my ability to serve others, building a future where compassion and impact go hand in hand.

I am passionate about pursuing a future in the construction and skilled trades fields because I have always been drawn to building, problem-solving, and creating things that last. Welding, in particular, excites me because it combines technical skill, precision, and creativity. It’s a craft where focus and patience produce tangible results — a skill you can see and touch. This hands-on approach to creating structures aligns perfectly with my interest in civil engineering, where I hope to combine design, planning, and craftsmanship to make a meaningful difference in the communities I serve. My inspiration to pursue this path comes from several places, but most notably from my family and mentors who have guided me through challenges. My step-mom has been a constant source of encouragement, showing me the value of hard work, perseverance, and selflessness even when life is difficult. I have also been influenced by my own experiences growing up — overcoming instability, foster care, and other hardships taught me resilience and the importance of creating something lasting for myself and others. Seeing how skilled tradespeople build and repair things that communities rely on has made me realize that this field is about more than just work — it’s about leaving a legacy of utility, reliability, and care for others. I want to make a positive impact through my career by combining the practical skills of welding with the broader vision of civil engineering. I plan to work in construction and infrastructure, helping to build safer, more efficient, and sustainable structures that benefit communities. I also hope to mentor young people, especially students from backgrounds like mine, showing them that pursuing a skilled trade is a valuable and rewarding career path. Too often, trades are underestimated, but I believe that combining technical expertise with creativity and leadership can change how people see the field and inspire the next generation of builders, engineers, and problem-solvers. Beyond technical skills, I want to use my career to show that dedication, patience, and resilience matter as much as talent. Welding and construction require focus, discipline, and adaptability — qualities I have developed through my own life experiences. By showing others what is possible through effort and perseverance, I hope to leave a lasting mark on both the work I create and the people I support along the way. In every job, whether it’s helping on a project, collaborating with a team, or mentoring someone learning a new skill, I aim to carry the same principles Dustan Biegler exemplified: humility, hard work, and a desire to help others succeed. This scholarship would help me continue my training in the skilled trades while pursuing my broader goal of contributing to civil engineering projects that strengthen and uplift communities. It would allow me to dedicate myself to learning, growing, and building a future that reflects both my passion and the lessons I’ve learned from those who have influenced me. Welding and civil engineering are more than careers to me — they are ways to create, solve problems, and leave a tangible legacy. Through my work, I hope to honor the values of hard work, leadership, and impact that Dustan Biegler represented, while inspiring others to pursue their goals in skilled trades and construction with the same dedication and care.

My name is Sidney Days, and I am a senior at Willowridge High School in Houston, Texas. I am passionate about leadership, community service, and STEM, and I plan to pursue a degree in civil engineering. Growing up, I faced many challenges that shaped who I am today — from experiencing instability and foster care to navigating the effects of ADHD. Despite these obstacles, I have always been motivated to work hard and give my best in every situation, both in school and in my community. Faith has been an anchor throughout my life. As a Christian, I believe that my talents and opportunities are gifts, and it is my responsibility to use them to uplift others. I regularly attend and volunteer at church, where I have learned the importance of service, empathy, and perseverance. These lessons influence everything I do, from supporting my peers as Student Council President to volunteering with programs like Youth in Philanthropy and Expose Excellence. Faith teaches me that impact is not measured only in accomplishments but in the ways we serve and inspire those around us. I am committed to pursuing higher education because it represents the tools I need to create lasting change. Civil engineering excites me because it combines STEM, creativity, and problem-solving to build structures that serve communities. I want to design and construct safe, efficient, and sustainable spaces that improve quality of life. Higher education will give me the knowledge, skills, and connections to make these ideas a reality. My goals extend beyond personal achievement. I hope to mentor and support students who come from backgrounds similar to mine, showing them that adversity does not define their potential. I want to encourage other young people — especially African American students — to pursue STEM fields and leadership roles, providing guidance and opportunities where support may have been lacking. I believe that sharing my experiences and helping others navigate challenges can amplify my impact far beyond my own career. Ultimately, I hope to leave a legacy rooted in service, innovation, and inspiration. I want to be someone who builds — not just structures in civil engineering, but stronger communities and opportunities for others to thrive. The lessons I’ve learned through faith, leadership, and perseverance have shown me that success is not just about what you achieve for yourself, but how you help others along the way. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my journey toward higher education and allow me to focus on learning, growing, and giving back. It would be an affirmation that my dedication, values, and vision for the future are worth supporting. I am determined to honor the spirit of Nellie Delores Blount Boyce by using my education to make a meaningful difference, creating opportunities, and inspiring others to reach their full potential.

Leadership and science are two forces that work hand in hand to shape the world around us. Science gives us the tools to discover and create, while leadership gives us the direction and drive to use those tools for something meaningful. Without strong leadership, even the best ideas can fade away. Without science, leaders wouldn’t have the knowledge or innovation to push progress forward. Together, they’re what move the world ahead. For me, science represents hope and growth. It’s about learning how the world works and finding ways to make it better. I’ve always been drawn to STEM because it turns curiosity into real solutions — whether it’s through building, designing, or improving the systems that keep our communities running. I plan to study civil engineering, where I can use both creativity and logic to help build safer and stronger environments for others. Leadership, on the other hand, is about inspiring action — not through power, but through example. I’ve learned that being a leader doesn’t always mean standing in front of everyone; sometimes, it means listening, supporting, and encouraging others to do their best. As a student leader, I’ve had the chance to work with others toward shared goals, from organizing school events to volunteering in my community. Those experiences showed me that small actions can create real impact when people work together with purpose. Science gives us the potential to change lives, and leadership ensures that change actually happens. The future depends on people who can think critically, care deeply, and act responsibly — people who can lead with both knowledge and empathy. By combining leadership and science, I hope to contribute to building a future that’s not only advanced but fair and sustainable. With the support of this scholarship, I can continue my education and keep working toward a future where innovation and compassion go hand in hand.

The trade I’m most passionate about pursuing is welding. To me, welding is more than just a technical skill — it’s an art form that brings ideas to life. I’ve always loved STEM and working with my hands, and welding gives me the chance to connect both. There’s something powerful about being able to take raw materials and turn them into something functional and lasting. It’s a skill that requires patience, focus, and precision — all things I’ve had to develop over time in my own life. I’m drawn to welding because it’s the foundation of so many things we depend on every day — bridges, buildings, pipelines, cars. It’s about creating stability and strength, both literally and symbolically. That’s why I also plan to combine my trade education in welding with a degree in civil engineering. I want to understand both the design and the craft, using my education to help improve the world around me. Welding will give me the hands-on experience, while civil engineering will give me the tools to plan and lead larger projects. After completing my trade education, my goal is to work in the construction and infrastructure field, helping to build safer, stronger, and more sustainable structures. I also want to mentor other young people — especially students from backgrounds like mine — to show them that learning a trade can open real doors. So many students are told that college is the only option, but the truth is, skilled trades are just as valuable and essential. They give people the opportunity to build careers, communities, and confidence. The biggest adversity I’ve faced in my life has been overcoming instability and trauma from my childhood. I grew up in difficult circumstances — experiencing homelessness, foster care, and abuse — and for a long time, I felt like I was always trying to survive instead of grow. I was diagnosed with ADHD and struggled to focus and express myself in healthy ways. There were times when I felt like nobody really saw my potential, and I didn’t always see it myself either. Things began to change when I started to take school more seriously and surrounded myself with mentors who believed in me. My step-mom, who I consider my real mom, played a huge role in helping me find direction. She taught me what it means to stay strong even when life isn’t easy. Through her support and my own determination, I learned how to take all that pain and turn it into purpose. Being a student leader now, I try to give my all in everything I do — whether it’s helping my peers, volunteering through programs like Youth in Philanthropy, or just being someone people can count on. My past didn’t define me — it prepared me. It gave me patience, discipline, and empathy. Welding represents everything I’ve learned about life: how to rebuild, how to stay steady, and how to create something strong out of what once seemed broken. With the support of this scholarship, I’ll be able to continue my education, master my trade, and build a future where I can keep growing and helping others do the same.

Living with ADHD has shaped a lot of my journey, both in and out of the classroom. It’s something that has challenged me, frustrated me, and taught me more about myself than I ever expected. There were times when I felt like my brain just didn’t work the way other people’s did — I’d lose focus easily, forget simple things, or struggle to stay still when I wanted to pay attention. For a long time, that made me feel like I wasn’t smart enough or capable enough to succeed in school. I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was younger, and it took a while for me and the people around me to really understand what that meant. I had an IEP that gave me extra support, but it wasn’t just about accommodations — it was about learning how to manage myself. Medication helped for a time, but what really made a difference was the people who didn’t give up on me. There were teachers and mentors who were patient, and eventually, I learned to be patient with myself too. One of my biggest challenges was learning how to communicate. When I was younger, I didn’t always know how to explain what I was feeling, and that sometimes led to misunderstandings or frustration. I had to learn that needing help wasn’t a weakness — it was part of learning how to grow. Over time, I figured out ways to stay focused, organize my time, and manage stress in ways that worked for me. It’s still not easy, but I’ve come a long way. Having ADHD also taught me creativity and adaptability. I had to find my own ways to make learning interesting — whether that meant using visuals, hands-on projects, or breaking tasks down into smaller steps. That creative problem-solving is a big reason why I fell in love with STEM, especially civil engineering. I like understanding how things fit together, finding solutions, and seeing the results of my work come to life. Even though my ADHD can still be a challenge, I see it now as part of what makes me unique. It’s taught me how to be determined, flexible, and compassionate — especially toward others who may struggle in silence. I know what it feels like to be underestimated or misunderstood, and that motivates me to prove not only what I can do, but what others like me are capable of too. As I prepare to continue my education in college, I want to keep using those lessons to build my future. I plan to study civil engineering at Prairie View A&M University, where I can combine my love for STEM with my desire to help communities through real-world projects. I know that getting here wasn’t easy, but every challenge I faced made me stronger and more driven to succeed. Having a learning disability doesn’t define me — it’s just part of my story. What defines me is how I keep showing up, working hard, and believing in myself, even when things get tough. I want to inspire others with IEPs or learning disabilities to see that their goals are possible too. With the right support, patience, and determination, we can all build something meaningful — not just in school, but in life.

The teacher who has made the biggest impact on my life is my English IV teacher, Ms. Johnson. She’s one of those teachers who doesn’t just tell you what to think — she pushes you to think for yourself. From the first day of class, she made it clear that she expected effort, curiosity, and creativity. She challenges me to look deeper into things and connect ideas in ways I never thought about before. Ms. Johnson has this way of asking questions that don’t have simple answers. At first, it frustrated me — I was used to trying to get things “right.” But over time, I realized what she was really doing: teaching me how to think beyond the surface. Whether we’re analyzing a novel or discussing real-world issues, she makes me use my voice and see how my perspective matters. That kind of thinking has changed the way I approach school, leadership, and life in general. Her class has also taught me the value of being uncomfortable in order to grow. I used to avoid speaking up or taking risks because I didn’t want to be wrong, but she helped me see that learning isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. That mindset has helped me in every area of my life, from leading Student Council to balancing community service with my academics. Ms. Johnson also reminds me that intelligence comes in many forms. I’ve always loved STEM and hands-on problem solving, but her class helped me understand how communication, writing, and creative thinking are just as important. She made me realize that engineering isn’t just about numbers and measurements — it’s also about imagination, design, and understanding people’s needs. As I get ready to attend Prairie View A&M University to study civil engineering, I plan to take everything Ms. Johnson has taught me and apply it to my college journey. I want to continue thinking critically, finding creative solutions, and using my education to make a difference in my community. PVAMU is a place where I can grow not only academically but also as a leader and a thinker — exactly the kind of environment Ms. Johnson has prepared me for. Her lessons go beyond the classroom. She’s shown me how powerful it can be when someone believes in your potential and pushes you to reach it. That encouragement motivates me to give my all in everything I do — in my studies, in leadership, and in helping others. Ms. Johnson has influenced me in ways she might not even realize. Because of her, I think differently, work harder, and believe more in what I’m capable of. She taught me that success isn’t about always being right — it’s about having the courage to keep learning, keep questioning, and keep trying. Those lessons will stay with me long after high school and will guide me as I start my next chapter at Prairie View A&M University.

My name is Sidney Days, and I’m a senior at Willowridge High School in Houston, Texas. I’ve always loved STEM — especially the idea of building and creating things that last. That’s what led me toward civil engineering, but I also want to learn a trade like welding to go hand-in-hand with my degree. To me, welding is more than just a skill — it’s an art that combines focus, creativity, and precision. Growing up, I didn’t have an easy path. My childhood came with a lot of challenges — instability, foster care, and times when I didn’t have much support. But those experiences taught me resilience and a strong work ethic. I learned early that nothing is handed to you; you have to build your own opportunities piece by piece. That’s part of why I’m drawn to welding. It’s something real and tangible — something you shape with your own hands. There’s power in being able to create, repair, and improve the world around you. I plan to master welding by learning the fundamentals through trade certification programs and combining that knowledge with my education in civil engineering. My goal is to eventually work in construction and infrastructure — helping to design and build safer, more efficient communities. Welding connects directly to that vision because it’s the backbone of many structures we rely on every day. I want to understand how things come together, both on the blueprint and on the worksite. Mastering my trade means more than just becoming skilled — it means constantly improving and learning from others. Welding requires patience and practice, and I plan to treat it like a craft that deserves respect. I want to gain experience through apprenticeships, internships, and hands-on projects where I can apply what I learn in real-world situations. Giving back to my community has always been important to me. As Student Council President, I’ve learned how much leadership and teamwork can impact others. I’ve volunteered through Youth in Philanthropy, Expose Excellence, and my church, and I try to use every opportunity to uplift the people around me. Once I become certified in welding and graduate as a civil engineer, I want to mentor other students — especially young Black students — who may not realize how many doors the trades can open for them. I believe that combining welding and civil engineering will allow me to bring both creativity and technical knowledge into my future work. I want to be someone who can build things that matter, not just for myself, but for the communities that raised me. Welding represents strength, precision, and creation — all values I want to live by. With the support of this scholarship, I’ll be able to continue my education and training while giving back through the work I do and the example I set.

The image I chose represents connection, leadership, and community — three things that have defined my high school experience and the person I’ve become. It captures a moment where I was helping bring people together, not for recognition or attention, but because I believe every student deserves to feel included and valued. As Student Council President, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about titles or being in charge — it’s about being present for others. Whether I’m helping organize an event, supporting the cheer team, or volunteering through Youth in Philanthropy and Expose Excellence, I try to create spaces where people feel seen and supported. The image reminds me of how powerful those small, genuine connections can be. That sense of connection means a lot to me because I haven’t always had it. Growing up, I faced instability, homelessness, and difficult family circumstances that made it hard to find a place where I truly belonged. I was in foster care, and for a long time, I didn’t know how to communicate or express what I felt. But over time — and with the help of my step-mom, who became my true source of love and guidance — I learned the value of patience, perseverance, and kindness. Every challenge I’ve faced has shaped the way I approach life and leadership. I understand what it means to struggle, so I work harder to make sure no one around me feels invisible or left behind. That’s why that image is meaningful to me — it symbolizes unity, understanding, and the importance of lifting others up. My passion for STEM, especially civil engineering, comes from that same place. To me, engineering isn’t just about math or design — it’s about building things that bring people together and provide stability, whether it’s bridges, schools, or roads. I want to use my skills to create spaces that serve communities, especially those that often get overlooked. As a Black student pursuing a career in engineering, I know that representation matters. There are still barriers that discourage students like me from entering STEM fields, and that makes me even more determined to succeed. I want to inspire others to pursue their curiosity and see that our ideas and contributions have value. The image I chose is a reflection of the person I strive to be: someone who builds, connects, and gives back. It’s a reminder that real impact starts with compassion — with seeing people as they are and helping them feel like they belong. This scholarship would allow me to keep building that vision — to continue my education in civil engineering and turn my passion for connection and community into a career that makes a real difference.

Growing up, I faced challenges that most people can’t imagine. From a young age, I experienced instability, moving between hotels and apartments, and at one point, even experiencing homelessness. My childhood was filled with uncertainty—often lacking food, safety, or a consistent source of support. I eventually entered foster care, where I struggled to understand my emotions and how to express them. I was diagnosed with ADHD and had to learn to manage my behavior and focus while navigating environments that constantly changed. Despite those challenges, I never let them define who I was or what I could achieve. I learned early that resilience is built through survival, but growth comes from choosing to move forward. When I finally found stability living with my step-mom, who I consider my real mom, I also found guidance and love that helped me see my own potential. She has always been strong, even when life wasn’t kind to her. Watching her handle every hardship with patience and care taught me what true strength looks like—and that became my motivation to do better and be better. At Willowridge High School, I’ve worked hard to turn my pain into purpose. I serve as Student Council President, where I’ve learned leadership and how to build community among my peers. I’m also active in programs like Youth in Philanthropy and Expose Excellence, which allow me to serve others and give back in the same way that people once helped me. Volunteering at church and helping with school activities like cheer events are ways I try to bring positivity and support to those around me, because I know how much it means to have someone who cares. My experiences have also shaped my academic goals. I plan to study Civil Engineering at Prairie View A&M University because I’ve always been fascinated by how things are built and how structure brings stability—a reflection of what I’ve always wanted in life. I want to help create that kind of stability for others through my work and community involvement. A scholarship like this would mean more than financial support; it would be a recognition that everything I’ve endured has a purpose. It would allow me to focus on my education instead of worrying about how to afford it, and it would remind me that my efforts and perseverance matter. I believe that students like me—those who have faced hardship but continue to push forward—deserve opportunities like this not because of pity, but because of potential. We’ve learned the value of hard work, gratitude, and persistence, and with the right support, we can turn our struggles into stories of success.