When I first began my journey as a computer science student at the University of Maryland, juggling schoolwork alongside the responsibilities of being a parent to a two-year-old, I often questioned if I truly belonged in this field. The barrier wasn’t just academic; it was financial, emotional, and social. But deep down, my passion for technology and my determination to build a better future for my son pushed me forward. The moment I truly embraced my “hacker spirit” came while volunteering for the BCCC Upward Bound Program, where I led STEM workshops aimed at inspiring high school students from underrepresented communities. At the start, many of the students were hesitant around programming, seeing it as an abstract or intimidating concept. To ignite their curiosity, I decided to combine tinkering with real-world application. I brought in a collection of old smartphones, microcontrollers, and sensors that I personally refurbished from recycled electronics—a hobby I developed out of necessity and passion. Over the course of several weeks, I guided the students as we transformed these discarded devices into smart home prototypes powered by simple code. The excitement was infectious. One student, shy and reserved at first, designed a voice-activated lamp that turned on with a command she programmed herself. Her pride was palpable; the joy on her face when the lamp responded to her voice commands was a perfect testament to the power of hands-on learning. We also built simple security alarms and other proof-of-concept devices that allowed students to see tangible results from their efforts. This experience transcended the technical—it empowered them to envision themselves as creators, not just consumers, of technology. This project mirrors Kyle Lam’s spirit—the willingness to explore new ideas, to invent creative solutions, and to share that knowledge generously. Like Kyle, I believe technology should be accessible and inclusive, especially for communities that often feel left out of STEM fields. Through my work with BCCC Upward Bound and my ongoing involvement with the ColorStack Program at UMD, where I collaborate on technical projects and enhance my skills through peer reviews and workshops, I continually strive to build on that ethos of experimentation and generosity. Yet, this path has not been without significant challenges. As a single parent and student, financial constraints often limit my access to the latest technology and learning resources. Balancing childcare, coursework, and extracurricular involvements demands a resilience fueled by ambition and the desire to set a lasting example for my son. Receiving the Kyle Lam Memorial Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden but also affirm the value of perseverance and creativity—allowing me to devote more energy to developing innovative solutions and mentoring others. My ultimate goal is to develop affordable, accessible technologies that address real-world needs in underserved communities, ensuring that no one is excluded from the benefits of technological progress. I want to inspire others, especially Black youth and young parents like myself, to see STEM as a field where curiosity, boldness, and community matter. This scholarship honors Kyle’s legacy by supporting students who embody that hacker spirit—and I am honored to share my story, ambitions, and commitment with you. Thank you for taking a moment to hear my story

My name is Tamunosaki. I'm a 21-year old Nigerian American senior and the proud parent of my 2 year old, Demetrious. My Journey has been marked by adversity, juggling my education, single parenthood, and financial challenges, yet each setback has only fueled my drive to build a better future for myself, my son, and my community. Growing up, I rarely saw Black scientist or engineers featured in my textbooks or TV or media. This lack of representation made it difficult to picture myself in STEM, but it also planted the seed for my ambitions. When my son was born, the stakes became even higher. I realized my education wasn't just for me--it was the foundation for his future, and a legacy I was determined to begin. Balancing parenting with demanding STEM courses has forced me to develop exceptional time-management skills, compassion, and resilience. There were nights when I studied by my son's crib, determined to master a concept so I could finish my homework during his naps. Financial hurdles threatened to derail my studies more than once, but with each challenge, my resolve strengthened. These experiences have taught me that persistence and vision can pave the way to success, no matter where you start. Despite my personal challenges, I am fiercely committed to giving back. I volunteer with the BCCC Upward Bound program, where I help organize STEM workshops and mentor local minority youth. Through this program, I strive to ensure that kids like me see someone who looks like them thriving in these fields. I also tutor classmates who struggle in math and sciences, believing that we rise together. Leadership, to me isn't just about personal achievement but about opening doors for others. I am pursuing a Bachelors in Information Science at the University of Maryland College Park because I want to use technology to solve real-world problems facing marginalized communities. My goal is to develop accessible STEM outreach programs--both for students and young parents--so no one is left behind due to circumstance. With the support of this scholarship, I'll be able to devote more time to studies, enhance my qualifications, and expand my community involvement. Ultimately, I hope to show kids--and especially my son--that black excellence belongs everywhere, including STEM. If given this chance, I will not only continue to strive for academic and professional success, but also to inspire and empower the next generation of trailblazers Thank you for considering my application.

My greatest achievement to date is not a single moment or award, but the ongoing journey of balancing college life with fatherhood. As a junior in college and the proud father of a two-year-old, I have learned that true accomplishment is measured not just by personal milestones, but by the resilience, growth, and impact that come from navigating life’s challenges with determination and purpose. When I first learned I would become a father, I was filled with both excitement and uncertainty. The path ahead seemed daunting—balancing coursework, part-time work, and the responsibilities of raising a child. Sleepless nights became routine, and I quickly realized that success would require more than just hard work; it demanded adaptability, patience, and unwavering commitment. There were moments when the pressure felt overwhelming, but each time I felt like giving up, I reminded myself of the example I wanted to set for my child: perseverance in the face of adversity. Through this experience, I discovered strengths I never knew I had. I became a master of time management, learning to prioritize what truly matters. I found joy in the small victories—completing an assignment while my child napped, or finding a moment to teach him about the world around us in our backyard garden. My love for the outdoors became a way to bond with my son, and gardening and mowing lawns provided not only a sense of accomplishment but also a much-needed outlet for stress and reflection. This journey taught me that achievement is not about perfection or recognition, but about growth and impact—on myself, my family, and my community. I learned to ask for help when needed, to accept setbacks as opportunities for growth, and to celebrate progress, no matter how incremental. Most importantly, I realized that my greatest achievement is not a destination, but the ongoing commitment to being present for my child while pursuing my education and future goals. Looking ahead, I hope to merge my passion for the outdoors with my interest in technology. I envision a future where I can contribute to sustainable solutions—perhaps by developing tech-driven tools for urban gardening, or leading community initiatives that combine environmental stewardship with innovation. My goal is to show my son, and others like him, that it is possible to chase your dreams while caring for those you love. I aspire to graduate with honors, secure a fulfilling career that blends my interests, and give back to my community by mentoring other young parents and students. I want my journey to inspire others to believe that, no matter the obstacles, perseverance and passion can turn challenges into achievements. My greatest hope is that, years from now, my son will look back and see not just what I accomplished, but the values I lived by: hard work, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive difference. In the end, my greatest achievement is the life I am building—one day, one challenge, and one small victory at a time. And as I continue to set new goals and strive for growth, I know that the lessons I’ve learned will guide me toward a future filled with purpose and possibility