According to Oxford Languages, engineering is defined as "the branch of science and technology concerned with the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures". From doing math through grade school to reorganizing the dishes in my cabinet, engineering has always run in my blood, and I knew it would be my sought-after degree path in college. The fact of the matter is that engineering requires critical thinking, which is something I have been blessed with the ability to do. Solving problems and building new advancements to create solutions is what I want to do to help society as a whole. Being able to do this as a career is the reason why I am thinking of engineering as a career path. In my journey so far, I have been blessed to have a multitude of engineering experiences that are part of my co-op program. In my Engineering Graphics course, I helped lead a team in designing and implementing simulations using p5.js. We focused on physical phenomena like 1D and 2D kinematics, harmonic motion, and force systems, visualizing how those concepts behave under different constraints. I ensured we stayed on track with our project deadlines and helped my team make decisions from designing sketches to final implementation. This experience taught me both the technical and collaborative aspects of engineering design. I’m also currently participating in an internship where I contribute to design reviews and technical analysis. While not formally part of a co-op program, the experience gives me a chance to see what engineering looks like outside of academics, how ideas become prototypes, and how teams use testing and data to develop and refine solutions. The internship is to use predictive modeling to determine the homelessness population in the coming years and see where we can go about decreasing it. I'm learning how to navigate design constraints, use CAD tools, and think like an engineer in the real world. Ultimately, I just want to pursue problems that matter, and engineering is the key to helping me solve them. Whether it’s making better buildings or improving energy efficiency, I just know I want to be an innovator in my community, but also in the world. I am especially passionate about integrating physics-based modeling into design and simulation work—using data, math, and mechanics to create more reliable, optimized solutions. I also hope to create a future engineering firm where students and interns can gain hands-on experience early in their careers, just as I’m doing now.

I am a son, older brother, lover of mathematics, martial artist, advocate for social justice, and avid anime enthusiast. The sum of all of these parts converges and works together harmoniously and allows me to work hard and achieve my academic and personal goals. They also allow me to be a person who seeks to be a change agent and compassionate to the world and those in it. In turn, I am mindful to pour back into the world what I have benefited from it. I remember from whence I came so that I always remind myself I am because of all those that poured into me. My passion for mathematics and engineering is rooted in my personal experiences and desire to serve others. Inspired by the need for sustainable solutions in my community, I aim to design environmentally friendly systems that mitigate flooding and reduce carbon footprints. As a future mechanical engineer, I will use my skills to create equitable opportunities and infrastructure that improve the lives of others, making the world a better place for future generations. I gained this perspective in September of 2021, when Hurricane Ida hit. A family of 3, including a child, died as water rushed into their basement apartment as one of the walls collapsed. They were trapped under hundreds of gallons of water and debris. No one should ever have to die in their home due to poor infrastructure. As an engineer, I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective of an industry professional. I could recommend the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I find that you must be the change you want to see and I feel I could make contributions to improve my community for the better by attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer. As someone who believes in hard work, being a change agent, and helping others, I believe that we all flourish in settings where such conditions are nurtured and cultivated. This is why being a student at Morehouse College means so much to me. Since 8% of engineers in the United States are African American, at Morehouse I am part of an empowering community that cultivates future Black Engineers. I hope to one day pay it forward and work to expose youth of color to the field of engineering so that they can feel the field of engineering is not out of reach for them. Assistance from the Byte into STEM Scholarship will help provide me the financial stability to continue to learn, grow, and do good for my immediate community and humanity without the fear of not being able to afford a college education. It will ensure that I can position myself to lead the change I want to see in the world.

As I have begun my journey at Morehouse College I know that I must give back to a community from which I will receive much more in return. I began working with the student run public service group Breaking the Cycle Global. Through this organization I have been able to Build Bridges with the local communities Atlanta University. As part of this organization I have engaged in planning youth focused activities such as neighborhood cleanups, Prom Attire collections and giveaways, and also packing lunches to combat food insecurity for school aged children. I also believe in speaking up and doing what is right and just. This is how one becomes the change they want to see in the world. Every week I leave my dorm room door open to provide a safe space for my Morehouse brothers to come speak, vent, and be heard. Creating a safe space that allows my brothers to feel like someone is listening, feel respected and have a space to be vulnerable helps to develop a sense of community and a space that guarantees that no one feels alone or unheard. Real influence comes from the grassroots efforts that we as human beings engage in and for me this is interacting with the community in which I live, work and study. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world. In turn I am mindful to pour back into the world what I have benefited from it.

The challenge of persevering to find a solution to a problem is something I am accustomed to doing. Ever since childhood, I have enjoyed studying how numbers work and how they can be used to impact the world. As mathematics is my first love, I want to use my love for mathematics in ways that I can pay it forward. It is after a lot of research and speaking with professionals that I decided on the field of Mechanical Engineering. Whether it be engaging with numbers for building designs or creating new machinery that benefits society, I know that I would be using my passion to not only help others but for the good of mankind. I was watching the news one day with my mom and the news coverage that day was focused on a storm that impacted my neighborhood of Southeast Queens, NY. In September of 2021 Hurricane Ida hit. A family of 3 including a child, died as water rushed into their basement apartment as one of the walls collapsed trapping them under hundreds of gallons of water and debris. No one should ever have to die in their home due to poor infrastructure. Seeing this made me want to become an Engineer more than ever as nobody should have to suffer due to inadequate infrastructure in their community. I felt that If I was in a position to use my mathematical skill set as an Engineer to advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective of an industry professional, I could ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution could be reached for my overlooked community. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college studying my love of Mathematics is my first step in realizing this dream of mine utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. Attending college and being provided the opportunity to pursue my love of Mathematics through the study of Mechanical Engineering is an opportunity that I do not take lightly. It is not commonplace to see a young man of color let alone a person of color pursuing careers in Mathematics based fields. I realize how impactful Mathematics has been on my life's trajectory and I hope that I can become a change agent to help others like myself do the same.

I am a son, older brother, lover of mathematics, martial artist, advocate for social justice and an avid anime enthusiast. The sum of all of these parts converge and work together harmoniously and allow me to work hard and achieve my academic goals. They also allow me to be a person who seeks to be a change agent and compassionate to the world and those in it. In turn I am mindful to pour back into the world what I have benefited from it. I remember from which I came so that I always remind myself that I am because of all those that poured into me. As I have begun my journey at Morehouse College to pursue a college education I still know that though I am new to the Atlanta University Center I must still find way to give back to a community that I will receive much more in return. I began by joining and working with the student run public service group Breaking the Cycle Global. Through this organization I have been able to Build Bridges with the local communities around the Atlanta University Center. As part of this organization a few initiatives I have engaged in are planning youth focused activities such as neighborhood cleanups, Prom Attire collections and give aways, and also packing lunches to combat food insecurity for school aged children. I also believe in speaking up and doing what is right and just. This is how one becomes the change they want to see in the world. Every week I leave my dorm room door open to provide a safe space for my Morehouse brothers to come speak, vent, and be heard. Creating a safe space that allows my brothers to feel like someone is listening, feel respected and hae a space to be vulnerable helps to develop a sense of community and a space that guarantees that no one feels alone or unheard. Real influence comes from the grass roots efforts that we as human beings engage in and for me this is interacting with the community in which I live, work and study. Inclusion and belonging motivate me to represent underrepresented groups in STEM. To help address the racial gap in engineering, I am now trying to start a student chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers at Morehouse. Only 8% of engineers in the United States are African American. I wish to be part of the solution by creating a friendly, empowering community that welcomes and helps cultivates Black engineers. Once my dream of becoming and Engineer is realized I will create spaces to introduce the youth to the Engineering field. This will allow a space for youth to gain valuable experience in Engineering so they can go forth and realize their full potential. Sometimes it’s hard for youth to see themselves in spaces that they might otherwise think they do not belong. Providing spaces where youth can gain exposure to an industry in which there are not many that look like them, and being an example of someone who has thrived; will demonstrate that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything you desire. This is why being a student at Morehouse College means so much to me. Assistance from the Mark Green Memorial Scholarship will help provide me the financial stability to continue to learn, grow and do good for my immediate community and humanity. It will ensure that I can continue to lead the change I want to see in the world.

There is no better space to become an agent of change than on a college campus. College campuses are the spaces where the leaders of tomorrow that are going to influence the generations that come after them are cultivated. They are full of young impressionable minds that when exposed to what obstacles and injustices the world has in store; can begin to advocate for a world that makes space for everyone. It is within my college community at Morehouse College where I felt I could find a space to continue my commitment to the work of making my community better than which I found it. Also, it is in this space where I feel I can make the greatest impact. My participation with the student run public service group Breaking the Cycle Global, I have been able to Build Bridges with the local communities around the Atlanta University Center. As part of this organization a few initiatives I have engaged in are planning youth focused activities such as neighborhood cleanups, Prom Attire collections and give aways, and also packing lunches to combat food insecurity for school aged children. I also believe in speaking up and doing what is right and just. This is how one becomes the change they want to see in the world. Every week I leave my dorm room door open to provide a safe space for my Morehouse brothers to come speak, vent, and be heard. Creating a safe space that allows my brothers to feel like someone is listening, feel respected and hae a space to be vulnerable helps to develop a sense of community and a space that guarantees that no one feels alone or unheard. Real influence comes from the grass roots efforts that we as human beings engage in and for me this is interacting with the community in which I live, work and study. Inclusion and belonging motivate me to represent underrepresented groups in STEM. To help address the racial gap in engineering, I am now trying to start a student chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers at Morehouse. Only 8% of engineers in the United States are African American. I wish to be part of the solution by creating a friendly, empowering community that welcomes and helps cultivates Black engineers. Once my dream of becoming and Engineer is realized I will create spaces to introduce the youth to the Engineering field. This will allow a space for youth to gain valuable experience in Engineering so they can go forth and realize their full potential. Sometimes it’s hard for youth to see themselves in spaces that they might otherwise think they do not belong. Providing spaces where youth can gain exposure to an industry in which there are not many people that look like them, and being an example of someone who has thrived; will demonstrate that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything you desire. As someone who believes in hard work, being a change agent, and helping others. I believe that we all flourish in settings where such conditions thrive. That is why being a student at Morehouse College means so much to me. Assistance from the Willie Mae Rawls Scholarship will help provide me the financial stability to continue to learn, grow and do good for my immediate community and humanity. It will ensure that I can continue to lead the change I want to see in the world.

Growing up I remember hearing my phone ring at 10 pm and it would be my mother in need of my help making it through the door. She was too weak sometimes to walk. She'd collapse on the couch and lie there until she regained enough energy to make it up to her bed and rest for the night, only to go to work the next day. Seeing this as a kid wasn't always easy as both my mother's kidneys failed after giving birth to my brother. Most nights I wanted to cry every time I saw this. But I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis, I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it after all those long nights so could I. This was an obstacle I had to face that truly made me stronger. When work got too much at school, I would simply take my time and persevere through it by studying and never giving up. In karate, I worked hard, whether it be in class or by training on my own time, to progress through the belt rankings. This mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today is because of her, even my love for Mathematics is influenced by her. Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. Service to others and humanity has been instilled in me my entire life. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation. This is not only to find a solution for the drainage problem and reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. As a member of my community I can organize my neighbors to leverage their talents so we can advocate for ourselves together as one unit. There is power in numbers with many voices we can be heard and seen by those we entrust and elected to advocate for us and hold them accountable. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me and I want to do the same for others.

This mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today is because of her, even my love for Mathematics is influenced by her. Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. Service to others and humanity has been instilled in me my entire life. In 2013 during Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. This helped me make up my mind that I wanted to become an Engineer. As an engineer, I would design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation. This is not only to find a solution for the drainage problem but also to reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. As a community member I can organize my neighbors to leverage their talents so we can advocate for ourselves together as one unit. There is power in numbers! With unified voices we can be seen and heard by those we entrust and elected to advocate for us and hold them accountable. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world. Attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me, and I want to do the same for others. I want to know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it

Growing up there are a few things that my mother always said to me that I thought were totally annoying but when I look back, she was giving me life lessons and I did not even realize it. If you “Huh” you can hear, Treat others as you wish to be treated, there is no such thing as a free lunch, failing to plan is planning to fail and do the right thing even when no one is watching. I did not realize it at the time but my mom unbeknownst to me was saying: 1. Always listen when people are speaking to you. 2. If you are looking for a specific type of treatment from others, you must reciprocate that treatment yourself 3. Nothing in life is handed to you and you must work hard for everything you get. 4. Not being prepared makes your life more difficult than what it needs to be. 5. Always put your best foot forward because you never know when you will need or encounter those that are watching later on. It always sounded like a bunch of noise to me but in the back of my mind these are lessons that I realized that If I abide by, I would be successful in all my endeavors. Maybe one day when I can take the “I told you so”, I will thank her because she gave me some gems that have helped me become the person I am today. I remember hearing my phone ring at 10 pm and it would be my mother in need of my help making it through the door. She was too weak sometimes to walk. She'd collapse on the couch and lie there until she regained enough energy to make it up to her bed and rest for the night, only to go to work the next day. Seeing this as a kid wasn't always easy as both my mother's kidneys failed after giving birth to my brother. Most nights I wanted to cry every time I saw this. But I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it after all those long nights so could I. This was an obstacle I had to face that truly made me stronger. My mother is a teacher and even though she dealt with Kidney Failure I watched her go to work every day; sometimes it seems as though she dragged herself out the house. She said to me” I go to work every day and work my hardest for the children of others, so that your teachers will work as hard for you.” This stuck with me and so I always made sure to help others wherever I could, whether it was shoveling snow, doing yard work for elderly neighbors, making sure my chores were done and helping my mom with her everyday task to ease her burden. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world and it is from the example my mother set for me at home why I have this mindset. The journey to make it to college has not been easy to say the least. My mom has been battling kidney failure ever since the birth of my younger in 2011. This has been weighed heavily on me as I never thought she would actually be alive long enough to see me go to College. Also due to her medical bills it has been a struggle for my family to put together enough money to allow me to go away for college. This scholarship would alleviate the money mom and my family would have to pay for me to go to school and relieve some of the stress my mom is under to stay healthy and fund my education. My mom is an inspiration to me and the reason why I want to become a Mechanical Engineer. I hope to one day design and build her a dream home for all that she has done and continues to provide for me. She has shown me that despite challenges you can still accomplish your dreams and meet your goals. This scholarship help ease the burden and lessen the financial load my mom bears to fund my education and allow me to pursue my goals receiving a college degree and becoming a Mechanical Engineer.

During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under hundreds of gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community as community of people predominantly of color are often over looked. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. I want to do for others so I can know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it. According to the Journal of Black in Higher Education (2023) "In 2021, Blacks were about 12 percent of the adult population in the United States but made up only 9 percent of the STEM workforce. In 2011, Blacks were 7 percent of all STEM workers". Not only is there a racial gap in STEM workforce but the amount of Black STEM workers that are in the workforce is not proportional to the number of adults in the STEM field. This signifies that it is ever so important to support minority students in college preparing for STEM careers. I personally know that as I engage in my studies I must prepare 10x's harder than my white counterparts as I have to be better than everyone in the room so I can be viewed as deserving of a seat at the table. This is why I am committed to excelling in my studies and every opportunity that comes my way! I want to be part of the serge of qualified, talented and exemplary Black males entering the STEM field as a Mechanical Engineer Currently I am a Freshmen at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. I am pursuing dual degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Physics with a minor in Mathematics. My education would help me advocate for quality and equitable resources for the underserved as we all deserve a world that is fair and just. Due to the current political climate funding for college may very well be in jeopardy. This makes is harder for marginalized populations to maintain enrollment at institutions of higher learning. As the cost of attendance for college is growing exponentially, aid in jeopardy, inflation high and salaries not keeping up with basic cost; it is becoming increasing harder for families like mine to finance their children's education. It is scholarships like the Sigala La Education Scholarship that students like myself turn to in order to stay enrolled to have the ability to continue to pursue our education.

Growing up I remember hearing my phone ring at 10 pm and it would be my mother in need of my help making it through the door. She was too weak sometimes to walk. She'd collapse on the couch and lie there until she regained enough energy to make it up to her bed and rest for the night, only to go to work the next day. Seeing this as a kid wasn't always easy as both my mother's kidneys failed after giving birth to my brother. Most nights I wanted to cry every time I saw this. But I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis, I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it after all those long nights so could I. I spent years from ages 4 to 15 watching my mother deal with kidney failure and its effects on myself and my family. Watching my mother go to dialysis and the wear and tear it put on her body was heartbreaking but I had to be strong for her as she was trying to be strong for me. My mother is a teacher and even though she dealt with Kidney Failure I watched her go to work every day; sometimes it seems as though she dragged herself out the house. She said to me” I go to work every day and work my hardest for the children of others, so that your teachers will work as hard for you.” This stuck with me and so I always made sure to help others wherever I could, whether it was shoveling snow, doing yard work for elderly neighbors, making sure my chores were done and helping my mom with her everyday task to ease her burden. The journey to make it to college has not been easy to say the least. My mother's battle with Kidney Failure has weighed heavily on me as I never thought she would actually see me go to college On top of that the medical bills were a struggle and we were lucky to have enough money to send me away to college. I am happy to say my mother received a Kidney Transplant and is just getting settled back into work. My mom is an inspiration to me and the reason why I fell in love with mathematics. It is because of her that I am a man of Morehouse studying to become a Mechanical Engineer. In the future I aspire to work in the construction sector where I can create blueprints and designs for a major engineering firm. This mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today is because of her, even my love for Mathematics is influenced by her. As she has inspired me to press forward even when a task seems impossible, I want to honor her hard work and sacrifice to accomplish all my goals and lead a successful life. Most important, I want her to see me become a "Morehouse Man".

This mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today is because of her, even my love for Mathematics is influenced by her. Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. Service to others and humanity has been instilled in me my entire life. In 2013 during Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. This helped me make up my mind that I wanted to become an Engineer. As an engineer, I would design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation. This is not only to find a solution for the drainage problem but also to reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. As a community member I can organize my neighbors to leverage their talents so we can advocate for ourselves together as one unit. There is power in numbers! With unified voices we can be seen and heard by those we entrust and elected to advocate for us and hold them accountable. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world. Attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me, and I want to do the same for others. I want to know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it

Growing up I remember hearing my phone ring at 10 pm and it would be my mother in need of my help making it through the door. She was too weak sometimes to walk. She'd collapse on the couch and lie there until she regained enough energy to make it up to her bed and rest for the night, only to go to work the next day. Seeing this as a kid wasn't always easy as both my mother's kidneys failed after giving birth to my brother. Most nights I wanted to cry every time I saw this. But I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis, I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it after all those long nights so could I. This was an obstacle I had to face that truly made me stronger. When work got too much at school, I would simply take my time and persevere through it by studying and never giving up. In karate, I worked hard, whether it be in class or by training on my own time, to progress through the belt rankings. This mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today is because of her, even my love for Mathematics is influenced by her. Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. Service to others and humanity has been instilled in me my entire life. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation. This is not only to find a solution for the drainage problem and reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. As a member of my community I can organize my neighbors to leverage their talents so we can advocate for ourselves together as one unit. There is power in numbers with many voices we can be heard and seen by those we entrust and elected to advocate for us and hold them accountable. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me and I want to do the same for others.

The study of Calculus is vital in STEM because it helps us grasp change. Calculus can quantify and evaluate dynamic systems like changing velocity in physics, and curve slopes in engineering. Derivatives and integrals are crucial in physics. The derivative depicts immediate rates of change, such as how quickly an item accelerates under a force, while integrals determine distance traveled over time given a velocity function. Many current physics, including Newtonian mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics, cannot be expressed mathematically without calculus. Many natural laws are expressed in calculus. Electric and magnetic fields interact according to Maxwell's equations. Multivariable calculus is needed to solve these partial differential equations. Calculus-derived differential equations are used to build structures, circuits, and mechanical systems in engineering. Calculus is used to predict material behavior under various forces when analyzing stress and strain. Optimization, essential to many STEM professions, relies on mathematics. Optimization seeks the optimal solution within limits. Optimization helps engineers create efficient devices, computer scientists develop algorithms, and economists maximize revenues or decrease costs. In each scenario, calculus identifies maximum or minimum function values for optimal results. I have seen how calculus helps me understand complex events as a physics student. I like how calculus could deduce the equations of motion from Newton's second law in classical mechanics. In recent electromagnetism classes, I learned how integral calculus calculates electric fields from continuous charge distributions. These examples show how calculus goes beyond computation to explain the universe. Calculus improves critical thinking and problem-solving beyond its technical value. Calculus involves logical thinking, attention to detail, and creativity—skills needed in every STEM field. I established a mindset that helps me overcome academic and life issues by methodically approaching problems and breaking them down into manageable chunks. STEM careers require students of color to work harder to overcome obstacles just to make others believe they deserve a seat at the table. The hard work I put into my studies of calculus symbolizes my drive to excel in a career with a lack of African American representation. Each equation and topic I learn advances my position to meaningfully contribute to science and technology and chart a path for those who come after me. Calculus is essential in STEM since it helps explain change, explain natural laws, optimize solutions, and develop critical thinking. As Mathematics is my first love, Calculus is vital to my goal of becoming a Mechanical Engineer and advancing knowledge. Calculus taught me about the universe and understanding it has given me the unique opportunity to make my mark on it.

The mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today because of her, even my love for Mathematics is influenced by her. Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. Service to others and humanity has been instilled in me my entire life. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me. I want to do the same for others so I can know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it. I attend Morehouse College. At Morehouse I am pursuing a dual degree in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Physics. Not only will my future career include these two areas of study, but I hope to start my own company. In starting my own company I will create spaces to introduce the youth into the workforce. This will allow a space for youth to gain valuable experience in the workforce so they can go forth and realize their full potential. All this would not be possible without education and that is why receiving a college education will help me to create diverse and equitable spaces to help give voice to the voiceless and advocate for quality and equitable resources for the underserved as we all deserve a world that is fair and just.

During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me. I want to do the same for others so I can know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it. At Morehouse I am pursuing a dual degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Physics. My education would help me advocate for quality and equitable resources for the underserved as we all deserve a world that is fair and just.

Growing up I remember hearing my phone ring at 10 pm and it would be my mother in need of my help making it through the door. She was too weak sometimes to walk. She'd collapse on the couch and lie there until she regained enough energy to make it up to her bed and rest for the night, only to go to work the next day. Seeing this as a kid wasn't always easy as both my mother's kidneys failed after giving birth to my brother. Most nights I wanted to cry every time I saw this. But I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it after all those long nights so could I. This was an obstacle I had to face that truly made me stronger. When work got too much at school, I would simply take my time and persevere through it by studying and never giving up. In karate, I worked hard, whether it be in class or by training on my own time, to progress through the belt rankings. This mindset I have now is all due to my mother; the woman who had the greatest impact on my life. Everything I am today is because of her, even my love for Mathematics. Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. Service to others and humanity has been instilled in me my entire life. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is motivation for me to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it! That is the example my mother set for me. I want to do the same for others so I can know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it.

Mathematics is my first love. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. The drainage system in my community has been a problem for as long as I can remember. Since I was a young child, every time it rains there is always flooding. You can guarantee that every time there is significant rainfall, streets, basements, and businesses are inundated with water. After years of minor fixes in October of 2021 is when the City of New York finally had to take notice. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is motivation for me to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream of mine utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it! This fall I will attend Morehouse College I plan to pursue a dual degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics. With degrees in these two areas areas I hope to start my own company. I will create spaces to introduce the youth into the workforce. This will allow for valuable experience necessary that will allow students to be successful. By attending college I can create a place where all people can come together to learn about engineering no matter who they are or what level of expertise they have. All this would not be possible without education and that is why education will help me to create diverse and equitable spaces in any setting I may find myself in.

Most nights I wanted to cry but I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis, I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it so could I. This was an obstacle I had to face that truly made me stronger. When work got too much at school, I would simply take my time and persevere through it by studying and never giving up. In karate, I worked hard, whether it be in class or by training on my own time, to progress through the belt rankings. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me. I want to do the same for others so I can know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it. In the fall I will attend Morehouse College. At Morehouse I plan to pursue a dual degree in mechanical engineering and applied physics. Not only will my future career include these two areas of study, but I hope to start my own company. In starting my own company I will create spaces to introduce the youth into the workforce. This will allow a space for youth to gain valuable experience in the workforce so they can go forth and realize their full potential. All this would not be possible without education and that is why receiving a college education will help me to create diverse and equitable spaces to help give voice to the voiceless and advocate for quality and equitable resources for the underserved as we all deserve a world that is fair and just.

Most nights I wanted to cry but I knew I had to stay strong. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday when my mother was at dialysis, I learned that I had to persevere and be determined because as my mom could do it so could I. This was an obstacle I had to face that truly made me stronger. When work got too much at school, I would simply take my time and persevere through it by studying and never giving up. In karate, I worked hard, whether it be in class or by training on my own time, to progress through the belt rankings. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified is my motivation for wanting to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I find that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream and utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. That is the example my mother set for me. I want to do the same for others so I can know I left the world, my country and my community better than I found it. In the fall I will attend Morehouse College. At Morehouse I plan to pursue a dual degree in mechanical engineering and applied physics. Not only will my future career include these two areas of study, but I hope to start my own company. In starting my own company I will create spaces to introduce the youth into the workforce. This will allow a space for youth to gain valuable experience in the workforce so they can go forth and realize their full potential. All this would not be possible without education and that is why receiving a college education will help me to create diverse and equitable spaces to help give voice to the voiceless and advocate for quality and equitable resources for the underserved as we all deserve a world that is fair and just.

Growing up there are a few things that my mother always said to me that I thought were totally annoying but when I look back, she was giving me life lessons and I did not even realize it. If you “Huh” you can hear, Treat others as you wish to be treated, there is no such thing as a free lunch, failing to plan is planning to fail and do the right thing even when no one is watching. I did not realize it at the time but my mom unbeknownst to me was imparting life long to me. It always sounded like a bunch of noise to me but in the back of my mind these are lessons that I realized that If I abide by, I would be successful in all my endeavors. Maybe one day when I can take the “I told you so”, I will thank her because she gave me some gems that have helped me become the person I am today. My mother is a teacher and even though she dealt with Kidney Failure I watched her go to work every day; sometimes it seems as though she dragged herself out the house. She said to me” I go to work every day and work my hardest for the children of others, so that your teachers will work as hard for you.” This stuck with me and so I always made sure to help others wherever I could, whether it was shoveling snow, doing yard work for elderly neighbors, making sure my chores were done and helping my mom with her everyday task to ease her burden. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world. Being the change I want to see in the world I have done a few things throughout my high school career to embrace change. I was inspired to commit to the BLM Task Force and the Annual BLM Day of Action. Participating in these activities allowed me to educate my peers on systematic and social issues that are still faced by African Americans today. To highlight the achievements of the Black community this year’s Day of Action’s theme was celebrating “Black Joy”. We highlighted black joy through many workshops; some of these workshops included black hair care accompanied by Marsai Martin's Hulu documentary, along with discussing the history of the n-word which I organized and facilitated. During my freshman year in high school I found myself protesting for basic rights that should be afforded to all, but many in our society still feel African Americans should not have. I thought that in my lifetime it would not be necessary for me to march and advocate for humane treatment. Yet, I still found that I was marching for the same rights that leaders of the Civil Rights Movement marched for generations before me. Resolution for these issues is engaging young people such as myself to mobilize and engage in peaceful protest and advocacy. If youth do not advocate for themselves and bring attention to these issues who is going to make society take notice? Social action and advocacy are necessary, so that like those before me today’s youth can do their part for the next generation. It is through this work that I have begun to have a positive impact on others and have embarked on a road that will allow me to be the change that I wish to see, not only in just my community but the world at large.

Tenth grade was the first time I took a physics course. My first thought was this course was not going to pique my interest; however, I was sadly mistaken. When I began work on energy and collisions which required applying mathematics to real-world scenarios, it was at this moment I realized that physics is fun. Being able to use mathematics which I am so passionate about allowed me to find an avenue in which I could further my study and explore its real world applications. This class along with my love for Mathematics that I've possessed since childhood, showed me I could be happy pursuing my first love and still have a viable future. Whether it be engaging with numbers to determine the viability of a design or creating new machinery that solves a societal problem, I know that I would be fortunate to use my passion to help others. The drainage system in my community has been a problem for as long as I can remember. Since I was a young child, every time it rains there is always flooding. You can guarantee that every time there is significant rainfall, streets, basements, and businesses are inundated with water. After years of minor fixes in October of 2021 is when the City of New York finally had to take notice. During Hurricane Ida the water was backed up leaving huge pools of water all around my neighborhood. A family lost 3 of its members as the water came rushing into their basement apartment trapping them under gallons of water and dirt. As an engineer, I would want to design reservoirs or basins that are environmentally friendly and have the capacity to handle vast amounts of runoff and flood waters when significant weather events occur. Additionally, I would like to update the neighborhood sewer systems to not only collect the runoff but at the same time filter collected water so it can be possibly reused as drinking water or saved for irrigation to not only find a solution for the drainage problem but reduce my neighborhood's carbon footprint. Unnecessary loss of life due to poor drainage that can be easily rectified motivated me to become an engineer. As an engineer I can advocate for appropriate infrastructure from the perspective as an industry professional that can ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for my overlooked community. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world and attending college to become a Mechanical Engineer is my first step in realizing this dream of mine utilizing my first love to make the world a better place than I found it. I have worked very hard throughout my academic career, all for this moment. As I am right on the cusp of making a college education a reality for myself I do not want to do so at the detriment of my family. Assistance to help finance my education will allow me to not only better myself but allow me to be in a position to pay it forward to others. The assistance this award would provide will allow this dream of mine to come to fruition. If you see me as a worthy candidate your assistance would be a tremendous help with allowing me to obtain a college education and being able to do my part to make the world a better place.

Growing up there are a few things that my mother always said to me that I thought were totally annoying but when I look back, she was giving me life lessons and I did not even realize it. If you “Huh” you can hear, Treat others as you wish to be treated, there is no such thing as a free lunch, failing to plan is planning to fail and do the right thing even when no one is watching. I did not realize it at the time by my mom unbeknownst was telling me: 1. Always listen when people are speaking to you. 2. If you are looking for a specific type of treatment from others, you must reciprocate that treatment yourself 3. Nothing in life is handed to you and you must work hard for everything you get. 4. Not being prepared makes your life more difficult than what it needs to be. 5. Always put your best foot forward because you never know when you will need or encounter someone later on. It always sounded like a bunch of noise to me but in the back of my mind these are lessons that I realized that If I abide by, I would be successful in all my endeavors. Maybe one day when I can take the “I told you so”, I will thank her because she gave me some gems that have helped me become the person I am today. Being a strong student with expectations laid down by my mother, I assumed that Bard High School Early College Queens (BHSEC) was a sure thing. However, my confidence crumbled after I received a letter from BHSEC stating that I was on their waitlist. I put in so much work only to be let down significantly. My plan for my life felt shattered as I had not truly thought of where I would go if Bard rejected me. Amid all this turmoil I still had to move forward as life does every day. I sat down and had to redirect myself. I began working on math courses using Khan Academy and using Kaplan companies’ online resources for work in English to prepare me for high school. I then sat and combed through my high school lists for the best school for me and settled on the Queens School of Inquiry. Instead of letting my rejection depress me, I used it as motivation to work harder so that when it came time for college I would never be denied again and experience that same feeling of rejection I did not getting into Bard. Even though with hard work and perseverance I did eventually make it into Bard, those lessons are what helped guide me. When I entered high school there were many opportunities that presented themselves for me to serve. I was inspired to commit to the BLM Task Force and the Annual BLM Day of Action. Participating in these activities allowed me to educate my peers on systematic and social issues that are still faced by African Americans today. I found that you must be the change you want to see in the world. First, at my school, I found that black culture is something that some of my classmates feel can be exploited. They often felt it was funny to say the n-word because they were friendly with other students of color. I was tired of standing by and feeling like nothing could be done, so I joined the Black Lives Matter Task Force. It was here that I decided to facilitate a workshop during the BLM day of action discussing the history of the n-word and its impacts on the Black community. It not only allowed me to advocate for myself but also provided me the opportunity to have an honest conversation with those in my school community that may not have known or choose not to realize the impact of this word. Another part of our work on the taskforce is to highlight the achievements of the Black community. This year for our Day of Action the theme was celebrating “Black Joy”. We highlighted black joy through many workshops; some of these workshops included black hair care accompanied by Marsai Martin's Hulu documentary, teaching games played by those belonging to the African diaspora such as mancala and ludo, along with watching movies that highlighted black joy. These activities helped me to gain a deeper understanding of the greatness and accomplishments of the African American community but also allowed me to showcase this to my classmates as well. In the fall I will attend Morehouse College. At Morehouse I plan to pursue a dual degree in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics. Not only will my future career include these two areas of study, but I hope to start my own company. In starting my own company I will create spaces to introduce the youth into the workforce. This will allow for valuable experience so they can go forth and spread their knowledge with others. By attending college I can create a place where all people can come together to learn about engineering no matter who they are or what level of expertise they have. All this would not be possible without education and that is why education will help me to create diverse and equitable spaces in any setting I may find myself in. I hope that the David Pruitt Award selection committee sees that I am a worth candidate to help me achieve my dreams realize and my goals by see that I am a worthy recipient of this award.