My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I am a female undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Computer Science. As a member of a historically underrepresented group in STEM, I am passionate about breaking barriers and contributing to a more inclusive and innovative future in science and technology. My interest in STEM started early in my childhood, growing up in Bangladesh where access to technology and educational resources was limited. Despite these challenges, I was always curious about how things worked—from the mechanics behind everyday devices to the way computers could be programmed to solve complex problems. When I moved to the United States, I finally had access to computers and technology that helped me explore this curiosity more deeply. One personal experience that significantly shaped my pursuit of STEM was when I discovered programming during middle school. I started with simple block-based coding, which ignited my passion. I was amazed by how lines of code could create games, apps, and tools that others could use. This experience was transformative because it showed me the power of technology to create change and solve real problems. In high school, I took advanced math and computer science classes and participated in a nonprofit club called SPIDER, where I taught programming basics to younger students. Teaching others was incredibly rewarding, as it allowed me to share the joy of STEM and inspire others to explore it despite challenges they might face. I also faced my own obstacles—being one of the few female students in my computer science classes and often the only one from my background. This made me realize how important representation is and motivated me to work harder, not just for myself but for those who might feel excluded or unseen in STEM fields. At university, I continue to challenge myself by taking part in research projects and leadership roles that push me to develop both my technical skills and my ability to collaborate and innovate. My goal is to leverage technology to address social issues and empower underrepresented communities, especially women and minorities in STEM. Receiving this scholarship would support my education and enable me to continue advancing in my field. More importantly, it would encourage me to keep breaking barriers and serve as a role model for other young women who aspire to enter STEM. In conclusion, my journey from a resource-limited environment to pursuing a STEM degree as a driven, female-identifying student reflects my ambition and commitment to fostering gender equity in science and technology. I am excited to contribute to a future where diversity fuels innovation and where all voices are valued in shaping progress.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I am a proud Muslim female undergraduate student majoring in Computer Science. As a first-generation college student from a Bangladeshi immigrant family, my journey has been shaped by the sacrifices and resilience of my family, especially my mother. Like Ismat Tariq, who devoted her life to family and community, my mother has spent countless years putting her children’s needs and dreams before her own. Watching her navigate cultural expectations, financial hardships, and family responsibilities has deeply inspired me to persevere through challenges and remain dedicated to my education and goals. Growing up, financial difficulties were a constant reality. My family faced many obstacles related to paying for tuition, books, housing, and basic living expenses. Often, I had to juggle part-time jobs alongside my full course load to help ease the burden. Despite these challenges, I have maintained a GPA above 3.0 and have taken active roles in student organizations that promote inclusion and leadership, especially for women and minorities in STEM fields. These experiences have strengthened my discipline, resilience, and belief in the power of community support. My background as a Muslim woman pursuing STEM has shaped not only my academic focus but also my vision for the future. I am passionate about using technology to bridge gaps in education and mental health resources, particularly for underserved populations including first-generation students, women, and minority groups. I believe that technology can be a powerful equalizer, providing access and opportunity where systemic barriers have historically existed. My dream is to develop innovative digital tools that increase accessibility and support, helping others overcome challenges similar to those I’ve faced. Beyond academics, giving back to my community is a central part of who I am. I mentor young Muslim girls and other first-generation students, encouraging them to pursue higher education and STEM careers. I volunteer to teach coding and leadership workshops to empower the next generation with skills and confidence. Through these efforts, I hope to build a strong, supportive community that uplifts one another and fosters success. Receiving the Ismat Tariq Scholarship would significantly relieve my financial stress, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and community work. It would honor Ismat’s legacy by supporting a student committed to family, education, and service. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and eager to continue paying this support forward in meaningful ways that benefit future generations. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and as a first-generation Bangladeshi-American undergraduate student, my path through higher education has been shaped not only by ambition but also by the mental health challenges that come with navigating cultural expectations, academic pressures, and family responsibilities. Growing up, I witnessed close family members struggle with anxiety and depression. Their experiences opened my eyes to the hidden struggles many face and taught me how vital compassion, understanding, and support are in any relationship. Mental health challenges can be invisible, but their impact on daily life is profound. Watching loved ones cope with their struggles helped me develop empathy and patience. It showed me that sometimes the most important thing we can offer is simply to listen without judgment. These lessons have strengthened my relationships with friends, family, and peers. I strive to be a source of encouragement and a safe space for those who need support, recognizing that mental wellness is foundational to personal growth and success. Personally, managing my own anxiety and stress during college has been an ongoing challenge. Balancing demanding coursework in computer science with leadership roles in organizations like INIT FIU and Women in Computer Science can be overwhelming. However, these experiences have fueled my determination and resilience. They have shaped my belief that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same attention and care. My career aspirations are deeply connected to these beliefs. I want to leverage technology to improve access to mental health resources, especially for underserved communities like mine. Many BIPOC individuals face stigma and systemic barriers that make seeking help difficult. I envision developing digital tools, apps or platforms, that provide accessible, culturally sensitive mental health support. Technology can connect people with counselors, peer groups, and coping strategies anytime, breaking down traditional barriers to care. I also believe education and awareness are key to reducing stigma. That is why I actively participate in mental health advocacy events on campus, where I share my story and encourage open conversations about wellness. These experiences have made me more confident and committed to making a difference in the way mental health is addressed in my community. Receiving the I Can and I Will Scholarship would not only ease the financial burdens of college but also empower me to focus on both my education and mental health advocacy work. It would be an affirmation that overcoming challenges can lead to meaningful change. I am committed to using my experiences and skills to foster empathy, resilience, and innovation that uplift others facing similar struggles. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I am an undergraduate student majoring in Computer Science at Florida International University. One of the most rewarding projects I have worked on was as part of the INIT FIU Virtual Reality (VR) team, where we developed an immersive fishing game using Unity and C#. This project was particularly meaningful because it pushed me out of my comfort zone and required me to learn new programming languages and software tools quickly. Before this, my experience was primarily in Java, so learning C# and working with VR development frameworks was a steep learning curve. Throughout the process, I was responsible for scripting the fishing line’s physics behavior to mimic real-life movement, which involved a lot of trial and error. It was both frustrating and exciting to see the progress we made as the simulation became more realistic. Adding sound effects for water splashes and ambient noises further enhanced the immersive experience. When we finally tested the game as a team and saw genuine smiles and laughter from our testers, I realized how technology can create joyful moments and bring people together. Working in technology inspires me every day because it is a field that constantly evolves and offers endless opportunities for innovation and problem-solving. It encourages curiosity, creativity, and resilience, qualities I strive to embody. Beyond the technical skills, technology has taught me the power of collaboration and empathy, as every project requires understanding user needs and working with diverse teams. I am especially passionate about using technology to increase accessibility and representation for underrepresented groups, including women and minorities in STEM. I actively participate in organizations such as Women in Computer Science and INIT FIU, where I mentor younger students, organize workshops, and advocate for inclusive environments. Teaching coding to middle school students through outreach programs has shown me the impact that early encouragement and access can have on a young person's confidence and career path. Receiving the Chadwick D. McNab Scholarship would provide vital support to continue my academic and professional journey. It would relieve financial stress, allowing me to focus more on learning, internships, and leadership roles that prepare me for a career in ethical AI and human-centered technology. This scholarship would also serve as a reminder that dedication and passion are recognized and valued, motivating me to keep pushing forward and making a difference. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to continue building meaningful technology that inspires, connects, and uplifts communities.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I am currently an undergraduate student majoring in Computer Science at Florida International University. My passion lies in technology, especially in software development and ethical computing. I chose this field because I believe technology can be a powerful force for good it can connect communities, solve problems, and improve lives. Inspired by the legacy of Brandon Repola, who combined technical knowledge with creativity and ambition, I strive to follow a similar path by blending innovation with purpose. Brandon’s drive to change the world by showing youth that “if you put your mind to it, it will happen” resonates deeply with me. I want to use my skills not only to build software but to empower others, especially those from underserved backgrounds like mine. In school, my focus has been on gaining a strong foundation in programming, data structures, and software engineering. I’ve also been actively involved in student organizations like INIT FIU and Women in Computer Science, where I collaborate on projects that improve digital accessibility and mentorship. These experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork, resilience, and creativity qualities I see reflected in Brandon’s story. My goal is to pursue a career in software development, with a focus on human-centered design and ethical artificial intelligence. I want to build tools that are inclusive and help people overcome barriers. I am particularly interested in developing applications that enhance education and provide opportunities for students who don’t have access to traditional resources. Beyond academics, I plan to continue learning through internships and certifications to keep up with evolving technologies. I also want to mentor younger students, especially girls and minorities, encouraging them to pursue STEM and believe in their potential. Like Brandon, I want to inspire others to dream big and put their minds to achieving those dreams. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate financial burdens that often make it difficult for me to focus fully on my studies and professional development. It would enable me to invest in learning resources, attend industry conferences, and apply for competitive internships that require extra costs. More importantly, it would honor Brandon’s memory by supporting a student who shares his ambition and desire to make a positive impact through technology. Thank you for considering my application. This scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also fuel my commitment to creating technology that changes lives for the better.

1. Tell us about yourself. My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I’m a Bangladeshi American, first-generation college student studying Computer Science at Florida International University. I’m passionate about ethical technology, educational equity, and building tools that make people’s lives better. I care deeply about opening doors for people like me, young women of color who were told tech wasn’t for them. Every opportunity I get, I use to uplift someone else, because I know what it’s like to feel alone in a system that wasn’t built for you. 2. What’s a real-world issue you feel deeply connected to, and why? One issue I’m deeply connected to is the lack of access to tech education in underserved communities. Growing up, I didn’t have a personal computer or internet access at home. I didn’t attend coding camps or robotics clubs. It wasn’t until high school that I even knew what computer science was. If I hadn’t stumbled across free online resources or met mentors who guided me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I believe no student should miss out on discovering their potential because they don’t have the right tools. 3. If you had the power to make change in that area, what would you do? If I had the power to make change, I would create a free, culturally relevant tech education platform designed specifically for first-gen students and young girls of color. It would include hands-on coding projects, mentorship programs, and community support. I’d also launch mobile learning labs in underserved neighborhoods to bring the classroom directly to students who don’t have stable internet or devices. Tech should never be a gatekeeping tool—it should be a bridge. 4. How did you choose your area of study, and what do you hope to do with it? I chose Computer Science because I want to build solutions that scale. I’ve always loved creating things that solve real problems. During high school, I founded a nonprofit club that taught Scratch programming and offered free SAT prep for middle schoolers. Watching young kids light up as they built their first games showed me that tech has the power to inspire. In the future, I want to work in ethical AI and human-centered design, making sure the future of tech includes all of us. 5. What’s one goal you’ve set for yourself in the next 5 years—and how do you plan to get there? Within the next five years, I want to be leading a team of developers at a tech company or nonprofit working on education access or inclusive tech. I plan to reach this goal by continuing my education, applying to internships, and actively participating in student-led tech initiatives like INIT FIU and Break Through Tech. I also plan to attend graduate school to deepen my knowledge in AI and UX design. 6. How has education helped you better understand yourself and your purpose? Education helped me realize that I am capable of more than just surviving, I’m capable of leading, creating, and uplifting others. It gave me the tools to turn my curiosity into a career path, and my challenges into a mission. Through my classes and extracurriculars, I discovered that my purpose isn’t just to succeed, but to make space for others to succeed too. 7. How has your identity as a woman influenced the way you move through the world? As a woman in hijab studying tech, I’ve often felt invisible or underestimated. I’ve had to fight to be seen and heard, especially in spaces where I’m the only woman or the only person of color. But these experiences have also made me stronger, more determined, and more aware of the importance of representation. I’ve learned to own my identity and use it as a source of strength, not something to hide. 8. What does leadership mean to you—and how have you embodied it? Leadership means serving others and making sure no one gets left behind. I’ve embodied leadership by creating support systems for students who felt lost, just like I once did. As Director of Membership for INIT FIU, I help connect hundreds of students to events, mentorships, and opportunities. In high school, I led a nonprofit club that provided free tutoring and tech workshops. I don’t just want to lead; I want to build communities. 9. Describe a time you had to be resourceful or resilient. What did you learn from it? When I was building my first tech project in high school, I had no laptop of my own. I stayed after school every day to use the computer lab, watching YouTube tutorials on coding and building my website piece by piece. It was frustrating, slow, and full of setbacks. But I kept going. That experience taught me that resilience is about showing up, even when you have less than others. It made me unafraid of challenges. 10. If awarded this scholarship, how would it help you pursue your dreams? This scholarship would help relieve the financial pressure that constantly hangs over my academic journey. It would allow me to invest in certifications, applications, and tools I can’t currently afford. More than that, it would be a reminder that someone believes in my vision. With this support, I would keep building, learning, and giving back because I know I’m not just building a future for myself. I’m building one for the next girl who looks like me.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Florida International University. As a first-generation college student and a woman of faith, I understand the weight of responsibility that comes with opportunity. Every class I take and every project I complete is not just for me, but for my family, my community, and the future I’m building through God’s guidance. I attend a Baptist college because I believe that education grounded in faith not only equips us with skills for the workforce but prepares our hearts to serve others with compassion and purpose. My goal is to work in the tech field, focusing on ethical technology and building digital tools that solve real problems especially for underserved communities. I believe that innovation and faith can work hand in hand to bring light into broken systems and create solutions that uplift people. This scholarship would help me continue my studies without the constant stress of how I’m going to pay for tuition, books, and basic living expenses. I come from a low-income immigrant household, and every semester is a step of faith. There have been times when I’ve considered taking fewer classes or skipping opportunities just because of financial limitations. Receiving this scholarship would ease some of that burden and allow me to stay focused on my coursework, internships, and leadership roles where I give back to other students. Though I am not a mother, I deeply admire the strength and perseverance of the women who are balancing motherhood and higher education. I hope to support women like them one day by mentoring and advocating for policies that make education more accessible for everyone. Thank you for considering my application. This scholarship would not just be a financial gift it would be a reminder that I am seen, supported, and equipped for such a time as this.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I’m a first-generation Bangladeshi-American college student studying Computer Science at Florida International University. I come from a low-income immigrant family where education was always valued, but never financially accessible. I’m the first in my family to attend college, and I carry that responsibility every day, not just to succeed for myself, but to pave the way for others like me. Pursuing STEM as a woman of color in hijab hasn’t been easy. I’ve walked into classrooms where I was the only girl, the only person of color, and sometimes the only person who didn’t already have access to high-speed internet, private tutors, or test prep services growing up. I’ve had to teach myself how to navigate applications, apply for scholarships, and prepare for technical interviews while working part-time to afford college expenses. The price of admissions exams, prep books, and application fees has only added to the pressure. I’ve held off on applying to certain programs or retaking exams simply because I couldn’t afford the cost. This scholarship would help me worry less about how I’ll pay for what’s next and focus more on becoming the computer scientist I dream of being. I want to attend graduate school one day and eventually enter the field of ethical AI or human-computer interaction. My ultimate goal is to develop tools that are accessible, culturally aware, and designed to solve real problems, especially in underrepresented or global communities like mine. With financial support, I would be able to apply to competitive programs, attend industry conferences, and invest in study resources that help level the playing field. I’ve never wanted to succeed just for the title or paycheck. My success will always be connected to my community. That’s why I’ve already begun giving back. In high school, I founded a nonprofit club called SPIDER to provide free SAT tutoring, college prep, and tech workshops to underserved middle schoolers. We taught Scratch coding, ran fundraisers for supplies, and created a support system for students who had none. Now, as a college student, I serve as Director of Membership for INIT FIU, a tech organization supporting minority students in computer science. I help new members connect to resources, opportunities, and a sense of belonging, something I once wished for myself. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial relief. It would be an investment in my future, in my potential, and in the students I will continue to mentor. One day, I want to create a foundation that funds tech education in low-income schools and builds bridges for BIPOC girls who dream of STEM but don’t know where to start. I want to make sure that being first in your family never means being alone. Thank you for considering me. Your support will not just help me get through college. It will help me create change for others like me.

I’ve never had all the tools, but I’ve always found a way to build something from nothing. Last semester, while working with INIT’s Virtual Reality (VR) team at Florida International University, I helped create a fishing game from scratch in Unity. None of us had formal experience in VR development, but we were curious. We wanted to make something that felt real, immersive, and fun. I volunteered to take on some of the C# coding even though I had only ever worked in Java. I stayed up late for weeks watching tutorials, breaking things, fixing them, and breaking them again. At one point, I used trial and error to simulate water movement using physics-based scripts that made the fishing line bounce in a semi-realistic way and when the team tried it for the first time, they all grinned and said, “Wait, this is actually good!” That was the moment. Seeing everyone’s eyes light up, that’s what did it for me. I kept going. We later built a volleyball game too, and I added custom sounds for the ball hits and win animations. I made it so that when you spiked the ball correctly, it echoed across the court. It was dramatic, slightly ridiculous, and everyone loved it. We didn’t just code a project; we created joy. I learned to problem-solve, to prototype fast, and most importantly, to listen to how people felt using what I built. I never imagined I’d enjoy debugging audio bugs at 1 a.m., but when you see something you made bring people happiness, it becomes worth it. Before that, in high school, I ran a nonprofit club that taught middle schoolers how to build apps and animations in Scratch. I would tweak block code with them to make goofy things like flying tacos or haunted mazes. One day, a student asked if we could make a mini racing game. I stayed up that night researching how to build acceleration mechanics in Scratch. The next class, we built it together, and when the game worked, the whole room erupted with cheers. Moments like that remind me why I love tech. It’s about people. I don’t come from money or connections. I’m a first-generation student who’s had to fight for every opportunity. But like Kyle, I have a hacker spirit. I tinker. I test. I fail. I try again. I’m the kind of person who takes a broken mouse apart just to see how it clicks. And when I figure something out, I teach others so they can build too. This scholarship would give me the chance to keep pushing boundaries, to keep experimenting without the constant fear of whether I can afford my next semester. I want to build tech that makes people smile. I want to stay curious, bold, and generous, just like Kyle. Thank you for considering me.

My name is Tasnimah Arahim, and I’m a first-generation college student studying computer science at Florida International University. I come from a Bangladeshi immigrant family that has always lived paycheck to paycheck. Every cent we earn goes to rent, groceries, or bills. There’s no college fund, no savings account, no safety net. That’s why I’m applying for this scholarship. I need help. I’m doing everything I can, but it’s not enough. Sometimes I feel like I’m drowning trying to keep up with tuition, textbooks, and basic living costs. I cry when no one’s watching because I’m exhausted. I want to focus on my education and passions without constantly worrying about money. In high school, I worked hard every single day. I graduated with a 3.9 GPA while running track and participating in cross-country. I also served as the president of my school’s Muslim Student Association, where I organized events and led community service projects. One of the things I’m most proud of is SPIDER, a nonprofit student club I started to help other students like me. We tutored middle school kids, taught them how to code using Scratch, and showed them how to apply to college. We raised money by selling handmade bracelets and used it to provide snacks and materials for our workshops. I reached out to schools myself, coordinated schedules, and taught a full class. I wanted to be the person I wish I had growing up. Now in college, I’m continuing to give back. I’m involved in INIT FIU and Women in Computer Science. I currently serve as INIT’s Director of Membership, where I help hundreds of students access tech resources, internships, and events. I’m also part of a virtual reality team where I code games and build projects with other students. Even with all this, I still tutor math on the side to earn extra money. I try to balance everything, but it’s hard. I know some students don’t have to think about money, but I think about it all the time. Every time my bank account hits zero, I wonder how I’ll make it another week. Reading about Kalia’s story really moved me. She was someone who loved deeply, worked hard, and stayed true to herself. That’s the kind of person I try to be. I want to leave a legacy like hers, someone who made others feel seen, supported, and loved. This scholarship would help take some of the weight off my shoulders. It would let me breathe, focus, and continue building a future I can be proud of. I don’t want to give up. I just need some help. Thank you for honoring Kalia’s memory by helping students like me. I’ll carry her spirit with me in everything I do.

For the first eleven years of my life, I attended a Bangladesh government-run school that was solely taught in Bengali. I wasn't acquainted with an English-medium school, which offered various educational possibilities that my family could not afford. I knew I had the capability to excel in that rigorous curriculum, but I did not have the economic capacity. I had to endure the struggles of seeing my peers excel and being unable to follow in their footsteps. Everything was sailing smoothly until all the hugs became goodbyes and the suitcases full of culture were set to sail 24 hours later to what had always been the dream country. In a foreign land with no familiar faces and many different languages, I felt like a fish out of water. I knew that to confidently navigate the unseen land, I would have to learn the language it runs on. “Ekti basha joteshto noy." Languages are never enough. English was a puzzle, and every new word was a piece that never seemed to fit right. Learning a computer programming language was like learning a spoken language. My childhood consisted of many trips to the library and volunteer work. Whereas in the rest of the world, it would be driven by robots and AI. I was given challenging literary books, a dictionary, a computer, and was expected to excel immediately. This challenge forced me to learn how to communicate with others while navigating an entire new world of technology. When I was introduced to a computer, I was like a child with a new toy, captivated yet unwilling to put it down. It was a magical tool that allowed me to reconnect with my Bangladeshi friends. I felt an urge to understand how it functioned, how it was assembled, and how I could manipulate it. This is when I learned what language the world runs on. Bangla served as a window into my father's challenging childhood, full of traditional Bengali beliefs and the associated weight of high standards. English served as a universal platform to express ideas with diverse people from different cultures, but the programming language, Java, helped me connect myself with the algorithms of the world. It helped me feel heard in a place where I was muted. There was no racism or sexism in Java, just "Hello World.” In contrast to a world where my voice was silenced, programming allowed me to be heard and understood, offering me a sense of belonging and purpose. With each line of code, I could create something meaningful that would transcend borders and cultures. Through programming, I found my voice, unrestricted by the limitations of my broken English and my ethnic background. I discovered a way to bridge the gap between my creativity and the digital world. This language surpasses the boundaries of race, and gender. I did not just find a way to communicate with machines, but a way to be resilient and determined to continue and keep working until the job was done. As graduation approaches, the man who once scolded me for my failed exam grades no longer shows the same strength with his white hair and wrinkles. The woman who fixed my toys with superglue now relies on me for technical problems. I am now beyond the Bangladeshi border, in a new country where my dreams are just within reach: to bring technology back home with me, utilize my newly-acquired skills to speak in a foreign tongue that I love.

For the first eleven years of my life, I attended a Bangladesh government-run school that was solely taught in Bengali. I wasn’t acquainted with an English-medium school, which offered various educational possibilities that my family could not afford. I knew I had the capability to excel in that rigorous curriculum, but I did not have the economic capacity. I had to endure the struggles of seeing my peers excel and being unable to follow in their footsteps. Everything was sailing smoothly until all the hugs became goodbyes and the suitcases full of culture were set to sail 24 hours later to what had always been the dream country. In a foreign land with no familiar faces and many different languages, I felt like a fish out of water. I knew that to confidently navigate the unseen land, I would have to learn the language it runs on. “Ekti basha joteshto noy." Languages are never enough. English was a puzzle, and every new word was a piece that never seemed to fit right. Learning a computer programming language was like learning a spoken language. My childhood consisted of many trips to the library and volunteer work. Whereas in the rest of the world, it would be driven by robots and AI. I was given challenging literary books, a dictionary, a computer, and was expected to excel immediately. This challenge forced me to learn how to communicate with others while navigating an entire new world of technology. When I was introduced to a computer, I was like a child with a new toy, captivated yet unwilling to put it down. It was a magical tool that allowed me to reconnect with my Bangladeshi friends. I felt an urge to understand how it functioned, how it was assembled, and how I could manipulate it. This is when I learned what language the world runs on. Bangla served as a window into my father's challenging childhood, full of traditional Bengali beliefs and the associated weight of high standards. English served as a universal platform to express ideas with diverse people from different cultures, but the programming language, Java, helped me connect myself with the algorithms of the world. It helped me feel heard in a place where I was muted. There was no racism or sexism in Java, just "Hello World.” In contrast to a world where my voice was silenced, programming allowed me to be heard and understood, offering me a sense of belonging and purpose. With each line of code, I could create something meaningful that would transcend borders and cultures. Through programming, I found my voice, unrestricted by the limitations of my broken English and my ethnic background. I discovered a way to bridge the gap between my creativity and the digital world. This language surpasses the boundaries of race, and gender. I did not just find a way to communicate with machines, but a way to be resilient and determined to continue and keep working until the job was done. As graduation approaches, the man who once scolded me for my failed exam grades no longer shows the same strength with his white hair and wrinkles. The woman who fixed my toys with superglue now relies on me for technical problems. I am now beyond the Bangladeshi surmised in a new country where my dreams are just within reach: to bring technology back home with me, utilize my newly-acquired skills to speak in a foreign tongue that I love.

My journey began before I was even born. It began when my father pulled my family out of poverty without knowing how to construct an English sentence. It began when my mother sacrificed her college life to carry two sons and one daughter. For the first eleven years of my life, I attended a Bangladesh government-run school that was solely taught in Bengali. I wasn’t acquainted with an English-medium school, which offered various educational possibilities that my family could not afford. I knew I had the capability to excel in that rigorous curriculum, but I did not have the economic capacity. I had to endure the struggles of seeing my peers excel and being unable to follow in their footsteps. Everything was sailing smoothly until all the hugs became goodbyes and the suitcases full of culture were set to sail 24 hours later to what had always been the dream country. In a foreign land with no familiar faces and many different languages, I felt like a fish out of water. I knew that to confidently navigate the unseen land, I would have to learn the language it runs on. “Ekti basha joteshto noy." Languages are never enough. English was a puzzle, and every new word was a piece that never seemed to fit right. Learning a computer programming language was like learning a spoken language. My childhood consisted of many trips to the library and volunteer work. Whereas in the rest of the world, it would be driven by robots and AI. I was given challenging literary books, a dictionary, a computer, and was expected to excel immediately. This challenge forced me to learn how to communicate with others while navigating an entire new world of technology. When I was introduced to a computer, I was like a child with a new toy, captivated yet unwilling to put it down. It was a magical tool that allowed me to reconnect with my Bangladeshi friends. I felt an urge to understand how it functioned, how it was assembled, and how I could manipulate it. This is when I learned what language the world runs on. Bangla served as a window into my father's challenging childhood, full of traditional Bengali beliefs and the associated weight of high standards. English served as a universal platform to express ideas with diverse people from different cultures, but the programming language, Java, helped me connect myself with the algorithms of the world. It helped me feel heard in a place where I was muted. There was no racism or sexism in Java, just "Hello World.” In contrast to a world where my voice was silenced, programming allowed me to be heard and understood, offering me a sense of belonging and purpose. With each line of code, I could create something meaningful that would transcend borders and cultures. Through programming, I found my voice, unrestricted by the limitations of my broken English and my ethnic background. I discovered a way to bridge the gap between my creativity and the digital world. This language surpasses the boundaries of race, and gender. I did not just find a way to communicate with machines, but a way to be resilient and determined to continue and keep working until the job was done. As graduation approaches, the man who once scolded me for my failed exam grades no longer shows the same strength with his white hair and wrinkles. The woman who fixed my toys with superglue now relies on me for technical problems. I am now beyond the Bangladeshi

This year was quite complicated, the struggles and difficulties that I faced were not as numerous as I had experienced in previous years, but the few challenges that I did have, took a lot more of my mental capacity to handle and process. One grand challenge experienced this year was the completion of the yearbook in the final weeks, as the deadline neared I became more and more overwhelmed with stress. To make matters worse, the situation with the pandemic came in and terminated weeks worth of school time for final photographs, stories, interviews, and general information. Despite the chaotic advantage of the opportunities that technology held at our disposal. Another struggle was time management. It's incredible how one word, time, can determine so much for a person. This year was the year where time mattered more than anything because there was no time to waste, there was no time to slack off or to sleep or rest. There were always priorities like academics and several extracurriculars in mind that came before one's self, and if I could do it all over again I would, because I learned to embrace the ideas of responsibility and stress. The idea of leadership was always something I desired because I wanted to challenge myself and that desire was attained this year at Apollo when I worked with the yearbook team. It was truly a challenge for I had to always attack every obstacle with a mentality that work and friendship do not mix and that there is a time and place for everything. Complications arise when the line between priorities and relationships begins to blur, it begins to interrupt your point of focus and rate of success. Another terrifying thing about being a leader is that whatever your team does, you are to take responsibility for it. Why? It's because they are your team and it is up to you that it be sought out that they do what needs to be done. That much responsibility, requires someone who can withstand a lot, which is exactly why that was part of the many internal conflicts and struggles that I encountered this year it was because I knew I couldn't let anyone down. This year far more than any other year, I learned the importance of managing my time and deadlines. I set daily goals for myself and set myself under mental preparation every day. I would plan out my assignments constantly, reminding myself of what needed to be done and the most effective way to complete every assignment. Looking back at this year I broke through a lot of insecurities as to what I was capable of and began to really define my character. I became bolder, more focused, and serious, but most of all I learned to appreciate every moment. One of my favorite things about this year was how much my relationships with other individuals grew and how strong we made one another despite the obstacles that life presented. This year I was most proud of not only the yearbook itself but of the team that gave their all to complete the book. This year's journey on the yearbook staff taught me what it meant to work with a team, to be a leader, to have to make sacrifices to get ahead, and most importantly that there is always a silver lining. Apollo will forever be my home, it will always be the place where I found myself and the place that taught me what I am truly capable of.

Artificial intelligence is a subject that I find intellectually stimulating and am curious to learn more about while in college. The idea of robots being present in every aspect of our lives piqued my curiosity and drove me to research the interactions between humans and robots. The University of Florida Honors Program will offer me an unparalleled opportunity to study humanrobot interaction and obtain the expertise required to design superior layouts and compelling robotics technology.Through my research and studies at the University of Florida, I intend to expand my knowledge of artificial intelligence while developing an enhanced understanding of the ethical and societal consequences of artificial intelligence. The University of Florida presents a diverse range of courses, like AI Fundamentals and Ethics in Data Technology, which will provide me with the opportunity and facilities to pursue my interests. With the help of the Honors Program, I envision my enthusiasm for the field of computer science pushing me to greater heights of innovation and creativity, as well as helping me build the knowledge required to make a beneficial impact on the world through the application of artificial intelligence. Eakata Jain, an associate professor at the University of Florida in the computer science and engineering department, conducted research on how human-horse interactions inform human-robot interactions. Like Professor Jain, who found out the complexities of the human-horse relationship by learning to ride the horse herself, I envision the University of Florida Honors Program giving me the opportunity to research with her and learn alongside her. This partnership will allow me to obtain valuable information and expertise in the field while advancing human-computer interaction research. I will be able to conduct my own research and collaborate on research projects with other students, sharing viewpoints that will help us grasp this complicated problem and develop new solutions. I had the opportunity to be a Frontend Software Engineering Intern and participate in a project with the Florida Atlantic University Ph.D. faculty from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, conducting research in the field of cybersecurity. With a team of seven, we were tasked with developing apps using the cryptography programming language and collaborated with product team members to implement authentication and audio by using react-native-track-player for iOS devices, which was responsible for writing and debugging iOS code. This partnership allowed me to obtain valuable information and expertise in the cybersecurity field while advancing public key encryption research. I conducted my own research and collaborated with other high school students, sharing viewpoints that helped us understand this complicated problem and develop new solutions. I used my collaborative abilities to add to the development and execution of the applications, playing important roles in the project's planning, debugging, and testing phases. During my time as a research intern, I was able to broaden my skill set in a hands-on learning setting while simultaneously contributing to a real-world research project, which was crucial for my development as an upcoming student at the California Institute of Technology majoring in computer science.

As I grew up, I was taught the importance of religion and held onto Islamic values and disciples instilled in me. I began to adhere to them, given that it would give me not only rewards and praise from those around me but because of the promise that it would benefit me as well as my cultural roots, I grew up humble and apprehensive of what I had, given that it was so focused on family and togetherness, being grateful despite having little. I grew up in a world where many rules were enforced, and I behaved in order to be called independent and free from the outside world without often asking for help in order to prove that I was capable of handling the challenge before me. I often encounter many challenges that I have been able to tackle in order to gain a better understanding of myself and the way I have become more aware of my strengths, weaknesses, and personality, emphasizing my mastering these skills to grow as an individual. With curiosity and the drive to challenge myself, I develop the ability to process and organize information better to form such a baseline in order to have a better understanding of the world around me. I feel as though I matured and developed my independence quickly, given the responsibility I hold as the only daughter in my family. Socially, I tend to be quieter and more reserved given that I am not an extremely open person and am somewhat shy towards people I do not know well, although once I get to know them, I would open up. I became more forgiving, more patient, more tolerant, and more self-aware which allowed me to effectively control my emotions. There are always priorities like academics and several extracurriculars in mind that come before oneself, but as the only daughter, taking care of my family was the most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom. When my parents are working, I take on the responsibility of being a role model and mentor to my younger brother. I help him with his homework, ensuring that he has the necessary support to excel in school while providing companionship when he needs it. My grandmother, who is diagnosed with dementia, relies on me for memory and moral support. I take care of her by making sure she has her medications and food while my parents are absent. I stay patient and attempt to speak softly to her, avoiding topics that may upset her. My brothers and I would engage in activities with her that would activate her memories, like viewing photo albums or watching shows together. I love to do this because it gives me satisfaction in the same way that a young mother cares for her child: a maternal love. This duty has put my resilience and patience to the test, and it has given me an even greater appreciation for the value of family bonds. Through these responsibilities, I have learned to embrace my feminine side while balancing the demands of my academics and extracurricular goals. I will remember the lessons I acquired as the "big sister or granddaughter" and endeavor to pass them on as I continue to further my education. Whether it's good, evil, love, worries, fears, success, failure, or the course of our lives, it's all decided in everyday, ordinary moments that we ignore. We all have secrets, deep insecurities, flaws, uncertainties, and unique qualities that we strive not to show or tell people about.

For the first eleven years of my life, I attended a Bangladesh government-run school that was solely taught in Bengali. I wasn’t acquainted with an English-medium school, which offered various educational possibilities that my family could not afford. I knew I had the capability to excel in that rigorous curriculum, but I did not have the economic capacity. I had to endure the struggles of seeing my peers excel and being unable to follow in their footsteps. Although being challenged academically was a dream, I could take solace in knowing that I was working hard despite the limited resources available to me. Everything was sailing smoothly until all the hugs became goodbyes and the suitcases full of culture were set to sail 24 hours later to what had always been the dream country. In a foreign land with no familiar faces and many different languages, I felt like a fish out of water. I knew that to confidently navigate the unseen land, I would have to learn the language it runs on. “Ekti basha joteshto noy." Languages are never enough. English was a puzzle, and every new word was a piece that never seemed to fit right. Learning a computer programming language was like learning a spoken language. My childhood consisted of many trips to the library and volunteer work. Whereas in the rest of the world, it would be driven by robots and AI. I was given challenging literary books, a dictionary, a computer, and was expected to excel immediately. When I was introduced to a computer, I was like a child with a new toy, captivated yet unwilling to put it down. It was a magical tool that allowed me to reconnect with my Bangladeshi friends. I felt an urge to understand how it functioned, how it was assembled, and how I could manipulate it. This is when I learned what language the world runs on. Bangla served as a window into my father's challenging childhood, full of traditional Bengali beliefs and the associated weight of high standards. English served as a universal platform to express ideas with diverse people from different cultures, but the programming language, Java, helped me connect myself with the algorithms of the world. It helped me feel heard in a place where I was muted. There was no racism or sexism in Java, just "Hello World.” In contrast to a world where my voice was silenced, programming allowed me to be heard and understood, offering me a sense of belonging and purpose. With each line of code, I could create something meaningful that would transcend borders and cultures. Through programming, I found my voice, unrestricted by the limitations of my broken English and my ethnic background. I discovered a way to bridge the gap between my creativity and the digital world. This language surpasses the boundaries of race, and gender. I did not just find a way to communicate with machines, but a way to be resilient and determined to continue and keep working until the job was done. As graduation approaches, the man who once scolded me for my failed exam grades no longer shows the same strength with his white hair and wrinkles. The woman who fixed my toys with superglue now relies on me for technical problems. I am now beyond the Bangladeshi borders, surmised in a new country where my dreams are just within reach: to bring technology back home with me, utilize my newly-acquired skills to speak in a foreign tongue that I love.

I attended a Bangladesh government-run school that was solely taught in Bengali. I wasn’t acquainted with an English-medium school, which offered various educational possibilities that my family could not afford. I knew I had the capability to excel in that rigorous curriculum, but I did not have the economic capacity. I had to endure the struggles of seeing my peers excel and being unable to follow in their footsteps. Although being challenged academically was a dream, I could take solace in knowing that I was working hard despite the limited resources available to me.          Everything was sailing smoothly until all the hugs became goodbyes and the suitcases full of culture were set to sail 24 hours later to what had always been the dream country. In a foreign land with no familiar faces and many different languages, I felt like a fish out of water. I knew that to confidently navigate the unseen land, I would have to learn the language it runs on. “Ekti basha joteshto noy." Languages are never enough. English was a puzzle, and every new word was a piece that never seemed to fit right. Learning a computer programming language was like learning a spoken language. My childhood consisted of many trips to the library and volunteer work. Whereas in the rest of the world, it would be driven by robots and AI. I was given challenging literary books, a dictionary, a computer, and was expected to excel immediately. This challenge forced me to learn how to communicate with others while navigating an entire new world of technology.         When I was introduced to a computer, I was like a child with a new toy, captivated yet unwilling to put it down. It was a magical tool that allowed me to reconnect with my Bangladeshi friends. I felt an urge to understand how it functioned, how it was assembled, and how I could manipulate it. This is when I learned what language the world runs on. Bangla served as a window into my father's challenging childhood, full of traditional Bengali beliefs and the associated weight of high standards. English served as a universal platform to express ideas with diverse people from different cultures, but the programming language, Java, helped me connect myself with the algorithms of the world. It helped me feel heard in a place where I was muted. There was no racism or sexism in Java, just "Hello World.” In contrast to a world where my voice was silenced, programming allowed me to be heard and understood, offering me a sense of belonging and purpose. With each line of code, I could create something meaningful that would transcend borders and cultures. Through programming, I found my voice, unrestricted by the limitations of my broken English and my ethnic background. I discovered a way to bridge the gap between my creativity and the digital world. This language surpasses the boundaries of race, and gender. I did not just find a way to communicate with machines, but a way to be resilient and determined to continue and keep working until the job was done.         As graduation approaches, the man who once scolded me for my failed exam grades no longer shows the same strength with his white hair and wrinkles. The woman who fixed my toys with superglue now relies on me for technical problems. I am now beyond the Bangladeshi borders, surmised in a new country where my dreams are just within reach: to bring technology back home with me, utilize my newly-acquired skills to speak in a foreign tongue that I love.