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Sophia Salemme

475

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I’m currently a sophomore at Virginia Tech, pursuing a degree in construction engineering and management. My passion for building has been with me since childhood, starting with Legos, where I would create elaborate structures with my sister. Growing up with a sister who has a heart defect has deeply influenced my aspirations. Watching her navigate a world that wasn’t always designed with her in mind motivated me to pursue a career where I can help make spaces more accessible for everyone. I want to use my skills to design buildings and infrastructures that prioritize inclusivity, making sure that people with disabilities or medical conditions can navigate them with ease. I excel in subjects like mathematics, physics, and design, and I’ve been actively involved in STEM activities, including community projects that focus on creating accessible spaces. As a woman in construction, I’m passionate about breaking down the barriers in a male-dominated industry. I want to lead projects that not only meet engineering standards but also serve the diverse needs of the communities they’re built for. My goal is to make the world more accessible for all, and through my studies and future work, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact.

Education

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2027
  • Majors:
    • Construction Management
    • Construction Engineering

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master'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:

      Construction

    • Dream career goals:

      Sports

      Rhythmic Gymnastics

      Club
      2015 – 202510 years
      Women in STEM Scholarship
      Growing up, I shared many memorable moments with my sister, one of which was building elaborate Lego structures together. These childhood experiences sparked my passion for construction and engineering, but it was a different experience that solidified my desire to pursue construction engineering and management. My sister was born with a heart defect, a condition that has shaped both her life and mine. Watching her navigate a world that was not always designed with her in mind gave me a deep sense of purpose. I want to use my knowledge and skills in construction to make the world more accessible, ensuring that people like my sister and others with unique needs can navigate spaces with ease and dignity. From a young age, I noticed how my sister's heart defect required her to be more cautious than her peers. Everyday tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking long distances, could sometimes be overwhelming or physically draining for her. The more I observed her challenges, the more I became determined to create a world that accommodates people of all abilities. This led me to realize that construction engineering is not just about building physical structures; it is about designing spaces that promote inclusivity and accessibility for everyone, regardless of their physical or medical conditions. Construction engineering and management is a field that perfectly aligns with my desire to create a lasting impact on society. The ability to transform abstract ideas into tangible, functional spaces offers an incredible opportunity to make a positive difference. I am passionate about the idea of using my skills to design buildings, infrastructure, and public spaces that can be easily navigated by people with disabilities or health conditions, just like my sister. From wheelchair ramps to elevators and universally accessible bathrooms, construction has the power to level the playing field for people with unique needs. Construction management plays a critical role in ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. I am excited about the challenge of managing large-scale projects that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. By pursuing a degree in construction engineering and management, I aim to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to lead projects that make a difference, from designing public buildings to improving urban infrastructure. I want to be part of the solution that ensures our world is built for everyone. As a woman pursuing a career in construction, I am determined to help break the barriers that exist in a traditionally male-dominated industry. This scholarship will give me the opportunity to continue my education and pursue my goals of making the world more accessible through thoughtful and innovative construction practices. I am committed to using my education to design spaces that allow everyone to live, work, and thrive—no matter their physical limitations. Thank you for considering my application and helping me take the next step toward a future where accessibility and inclusivity are the cornerstones of every project.
      Mike Wazocha Memorial Scholarship
      Growing up, I shared many memorable moments with my sister, one of which was building elaborate Lego structures together. These childhood experiences sparked my passion for construction and engineering, but it was a different experience that solidified my desire to pursue construction engineering and management. My sister was born with a heart defect, a condition that has shaped both her life and mine. Watching her navigate a world that was not always designed with her in mind gave me a deep sense of purpose. I want to use my knowledge and skills in construction to make the world more accessible, ensuring that people like my sister and others with unique needs can navigate spaces with ease and dignity. From a young age, I noticed how my sister's heart defect required her to be more cautious than her peers. Everyday tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking long distances, could sometimes be overwhelming or physically draining for her. The more I observed her challenges, the more I became determined to create a world that accommodates people of all abilities. This led me to realize that construction engineering is not just about building physical structures; it is about designing spaces that promote inclusivity and accessibility for everyone, regardless of their physical or medical conditions. Construction engineering and management is a field that perfectly aligns with my desire to create a lasting impact on society. The ability to transform abstract ideas into tangible, functional spaces offers an incredible opportunity to make a positive difference. I am passionate about the idea of using my skills to design buildings, infrastructure, and public spaces that can be easily navigated by people with disabilities or health conditions, just like my sister. From wheelchair ramps to elevators and universally accessible bathrooms, construction has the power to level the playing field for people with unique needs. Construction management plays a critical role in ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. I am excited about the challenge of managing large-scale projects that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. By pursuing a degree in construction engineering and management, I aim to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to lead projects that make a difference, from designing public buildings to improving urban infrastructure. I want to be part of the solution that ensures our world is built for everyone. As a woman pursuing a career in construction, this scholarship will give me the opportunity to continue my education and pursue my goals of making the world more accessible through thoughtful and innovative construction practices. I am committed to using my education to design spaces that allow everyone to live, work, and thrive—no matter their physical limitations. Thank you for considering my application and helping me take the next step toward a future where accessibility and inclusivity are the cornerstones of every project.
      Sophia Salemme Student Profile | Bold.org