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Simone Lewis

605

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

As a black woman majoring in Construction Management, my life goals are centered on breaking barriers, promoting diversity, and advancing sustainable practices in the construction industry. I am passionate about transforming the built environment through innovative project management, advocating for green building practices, and fostering an inclusive workforce. My dedication to academic excellence, leadership roles in student organizations, and commitment to diversity initiatives demonstrate my strong work ethic and proactive approach. A scholarship would support my educational journey, enabling me to focus on achieving my goals and making a significant impact in the industry.

Education

Norfolk State University

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Construction Management
  • GPA:
    2.8

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Architecture & Planning

    • Dream career goals:

      To become an Architect

    • I plan and supervise fun and safe activities for elementary kids in Norfolk, fostering their physical, creative, and social development.

      City of Norfolk
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Cheerleading

    Varsity
    2016 – 20226 years

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Entrepreneurship

    Vegan Teens Are The Future Scholarship
    As a junior studying construction management, I have become increasingly aware of the impact my personal and professional choices have on the environment, society, and my own well-being. I currently follow a pescatarian diet, having made the decision to limit my consumption of animal products as part of my commitment to ethical and sustainable living. However, I recognize that transitioning to a fully vegan lifestyle is a crucial step to further align my actions with my values, and I am committed to making this change. My passion for construction management stems from a desire to create sustainable, eco-friendly spaces that benefit both people and the planet. The construction industry is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, including deforestation, resource depletion, and greenhouse gas emissions. As someone who is passionate about sustainability, I am determined to use my education to promote sustainable building practices that minimize environmental impact and prioritize renewable resources. My goal is to lead projects that focus on green construction, energy efficiency, and reducing waste, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future. Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle aligns with my commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Animal agriculture is a leading cause of deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing a vegan diet, I can reduce my carbon footprint, conserve water resources, and decrease my reliance on environmentally damaging practices. Veganism is not only a personal choice but also a powerful statement about my commitment to protecting the planet and all its inhabitants. In addition to environmental concerns, my decision to pursue veganism is driven by a deep sense of compassion for animals. I believe that all living beings deserve to be treated with respect and kindness, and I am committed to making choices that reflect this belief. By adopting a vegan lifestyle, I am taking a stand against animal cruelty and supporting more humane and ethical food production practices. My journey towards veganism is also closely tied to my identity as a Black woman. In a world where systemic inequalities persist, I see veganism as a way to advocate for justice, not only for animals but also for marginalized communities that are often disproportionately affected by environmental and health issues related to animal agriculture. As a Black woman in construction management, a field that lacks diversity, I am committed to using my platform to inspire others to make conscious, ethical choices and to advocate for a more just and inclusive world. Attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) has been a transformative experience for me. HBCUs provide a supportive environment where my identity is celebrated, and my aspirations are nurtured. Surrounded by mentors and peers who understand the unique challenges faced by Black students, I have developed the confidence and skills necessary to pursue my goals, including my commitment to veganism and sustainability. The Vegan Teens Are The Future Scholarship would significantly support my journey towards a fully vegan lifestyle and my career in construction management. With this scholarship, I will continue my education and gain the knowledge and experience needed to make a meaningful impact in the construction industry. I am dedicated to using my education and passion to advocate for a more sustainable and compassionate world, where ethical living is the norm, and all beings are treated with respect. By supporting me in this journey, the scholarship will help me achieve my goals and inspire others to join the movement towards a more ethical and sustainable future.
    Linda Hicks Memorial Scholarship
    As a first-generation African American college student majoring in Construction Management, I have been fortunate not to have directly experienced domestic violence or substance abuse. However, the impact of these issues within my community and among close friends and family members has profoundly shaped my perspective and fueled my determination to make a difference. Growing up, I witnessed the devastating effects of domestic violence on loved ones. The emotional scars and physical injuries left behind by abusive relationships were heartbreaking to witness, and it became evident to me that more needed to be done to support survivors and prevent future occurrences. Similarly, substance abuse has touched the lives of those around me, leading to broken relationships, financial struggles, and health complications. Seeing talented individuals succumb to addiction reinforced my belief in the importance of access to resources and support systems for recovery and rehabilitation. As I pursue my higher education in construction management, I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to contribute to improving the care, coordination, and communication surrounding domestic violence and substance abuse, particularly within the African American community. Firstly, I recognize the critical role that safe and supportive environments play in aiding recovery and empowering survivors. Through my education in construction management, I plan to focus on designing and building facilities that cater to the specific needs of survivors of domestic violence and substance abuse. This may involve collaborating with architects, engineers, and community organizations to create spaces that prioritize safety, accessibility, and comfort. Whether it's renovating existing shelters or constructing new facilities, I aim to ensure that survivors have access to resources and support systems that facilitate healing and recovery. Secondly, effective coordination and communication are essential in addressing these complex issues. As a construction manager, I will work to streamline processes, facilitate collaboration between stakeholders, and ensure that projects are executed efficiently and effectively. By fostering strong partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and advocacy groups, I can help create a network of support that provides comprehensive care and assistance to those in need. Furthermore, I plan to use my platform within the construction industry to raise awareness about domestic violence and substance abuse and advocate for greater support and resources. By promoting inclusivity and diversity in the workplace, I hope to create opportunities for African American women to enter and thrive in the construction field. By amplifying their voices and experiences, we can work together to develop innovative solutions and drive positive change. In conclusion, while I have not personally experienced domestic violence or substance abuse, the impact of these issues on my community has motivated me to use my higher education in construction management to make a difference. Through thoughtful design, effective coordination, and advocacy, I am committed to improving the care, coordination, and communication surrounding these issues and ultimately changing the outcomes for African American women impacted by them. Together, we can create a more supportive and inclusive society where survivors are empowered to heal and thrive.
    Jerzee Foundation Scholarship
    As an African American woman majoring in Construction Management, my life goals are centered around breaking barriers, promoting diversity, and advancing sustainable practices within the construction industry. Growing up in a community where higher education was often seen as an unattainable dream, I have always understood the significance of education and the doors it can open. For me, attending college is not just a personal achievement; it is a pathway to making a tangible difference in the world. My fascination with construction began at a young age. I was captivated by the way buildings and infrastructure shape our communities and influence our daily lives. This led me to pursue a degree in Construction Management at an HBCU, where I could combine my love for problem-solving with my passion for creating functional and beautiful spaces. I am particularly passionate about sustainability in construction. The industry has a significant environmental impact, and I am dedicated to promoting green building practices that prioritize eco-friendly materials and methods. By advocating for sustainable construction, I aim to contribute to a healthier planet and create buildings that are both functional and environmentally responsible. In addition to sustainability, I am deeply committed to fostering diversity in the construction industry. As a woman of color in a predominantly male field, I am acutely aware of the challenges that underrepresented groups face. My goal is to leverage my position to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion. I plan to mentor young women and minorities, encouraging them to pursue careers in construction and other STEM fields. Through my leadership, I hope to implement programs and initiatives that support diversity at all levels of construction projects. This scholarship would have a profound impact on my ability to achieve these goals. The financial burden of tuition, books, and living expenses can be overwhelming, and this scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on the financial stress that comes with pursuing higher education. Additionally, the scholarship would enable me to engage in extracurricular activities, attend industry conferences, and obtain certifications that would enhance my knowledge and skills in construction management. Moreover, receiving this scholarship would be a validation of my hard work and determination. It would provide me with the encouragement and resources necessary to overcome challenges and achieve my dreams. With this support, I am confident in my ability to excel academically and professionally, making a significant contribution to a more inclusive and sustainable construction industry. In conclusion, my goals as an African American woman majoring in Construction Management are to promote sustainability and diversity within the industry. This scholarship would play a crucial role in helping me achieve these goals by alleviating financial burdens and providing me with the resources and encouragement needed to succeed. With this support, I am committed to making a lasting impact on the construction industry and inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams.
    Concrete Rose Scholarship Award
    Growing up in an underserved community, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of limited opportunities and systemic barriers. My parents, both hardworking individuals, instilled in me the value of education and perseverance. As a first-generation African American college student, I am determined to break through these barriers and carve a path not just for myself, but for others who come after me. My journey in Construction Management began with a fascination for how buildings and infrastructure shape our daily lives. From a young age, I was captivated by the intricate process of transforming blueprints into functional spaces that serve communities. This fascination drove me to pursue a degree in Construction Management, where I could combine my love for problem-solving with my passion for creating tangible, positive changes in the world around me. Despite facing financial constraints and the challenge of being a minority in a predominantly male field, I have maintained a strong academic record and actively sought out internships and leadership roles in student organizations. These experiences have not only provided me with practical skills but have also strengthened my resolve to succeed in this industry. I have learned to manage projects efficiently, lead diverse teams, and advocate for inclusive practices on construction sites. I am particularly passionate about sustainability and diversity within the construction industry. The environmental impact of construction projects is significant, and I am committed to promoting green building practices that prioritize eco-friendly materials and methods. By advocating for sustainability, I aim to contribute to a healthier planet and create buildings that are not only functional but also environmentally responsible. Furthermore, I am dedicated to fostering diversity in the construction industry. I believe that a diverse workforce leads to innovative solutions and a more equitable industry. By mentoring young women and minorities, I hope to inspire and support others to pursue careers in construction and other STEM fields. Through my leadership, I plan to implement programs and initiatives that encourage diversity at all levels of construction projects. This scholarship would have a profound impact on my career goals. It would alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and professional development. The financial support would enable me to attend industry conferences, obtain certifications, and engage in extracurricular activities that enhance my expertise and network within the construction industry. Moreover, receiving this scholarship would be a testament to the transformative power of education, exemplified by the inspiring journey of its benefactor. It would provide me with the encouragement and resources necessary to overcome challenges and achieve my dreams. With this support, I am confident in my ability to excel academically and professionally, making a significant contribution to a more inclusive and prosperous world. In conclusion, as a black woman majoring in Construction Management, I am driven by a passion for sustainability and a commitment to promoting diversity. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my career goals but also empower me to inspire and support others in their journeys. Together, we can build a future where diversity and sustainability are at the forefront of the construction industry, creating spaces that are inclusive and environmentally responsible.