My favorite thing about the planet is its natural balance and the way everything in nature connects. From the water cycle to ecosystems and even the climate, Earth works as this amazing, interconnected system. Through AP Environmental Science, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for how small changes, like pollution or deforestation, can have a big impact on everything. I’ve also come to admire how resilient nature is, when given the chance, it can heal itself. This balance is something I deeply respect and want to protect. That sense of connection has made me more aware of my role in protecting the environment. At school, I’ve participated in clean-up events at local parks and creeks, especially in neighborhoods that often don’t get much attention. We’ve removed trash, planted native plants, and educated the community about local wildlife. These projects have taught me that environmental change starts small, but it can have a lasting impact. I also helped organize recycling efforts at school, encouraging classmates and teachers to be more mindful of waste. It was a simple thing, but it made a real difference in getting people to think about sustainability. At home, I’ve taken steps to reduce waste and energy use. I’ve encouraged my family to use reusable containers and bags, conserve water, and start composting food scraps. We also make an effort to walk or carpool whenever possible. These may seem like small actions, but they’ve taught me that even the little things add up. And when other people see those efforts, they’re more likely to take similar steps themselves. It’s all about creating a culture of sustainability in my own life and encouraging it in others. Growing up in a low-income household has also shown me how environmental issues disproportionately affect underserved communities. This perspective has driven my passion for becoming a civil engineer. I want to design systems and structures, like green buildings, better water systems, and sustainable transportation, that help both the environment and people. I believe everyone deserves clean air, safe water, and access to green spaces, no matter their income or background. Sustainability shouldn’t be a privilege, it should be a right. Protecting the Earth’s balance isn’t just about preserving nature, it’s about making sure people can live healthy, safe lives. That’s what I love most about the planet, and it’s why I’ll continue to fight for it through education, advocacy, and my future career as a civil engineer.

The Giles family motto, “the two most important things are to be nice and hard working,” has guided me throughout my life. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household, I quickly learned that kindness and persistence were not optional, they were essential. These values have shaped my character and helped me stay focused, especially as I pursued advanced academic opportunities to prepare for my future in civil engineering. I knew from an early age that nothing would be handed to me, and that I would have to work harder than most to achieve my goals. Courses like AP Environmental Science, AP Literature, AP Psychology, and English 102 have not only challenged me intellectually, but also strengthened my ability to stay disciplined, curious, and empathetic. AP Environmental Science helped me understand the importance of sustainability and the role we each play in protecting our planet, lessons that connect directly to my future as a civil engineer. It taught me how science and infrastructure intersect, and how engineers can create environmentally responsible solutions to modern problems. AP Literature and English 102 deepened my ability to analyze complex texts and ideas, while also teaching me to better understand the diverse experiences and emotions of others. These courses taught me how to communicate clearly, think critically, and appreciate perspectives different from my own. AP Psychology offered insight into how people think, behave, and respond to stress, something that has helped me become more understanding and thoughtful in my daily interactions. In every class, I developed skills that go far beyond academics, they shaped how I approach challenges, collaborate with others, and remain grounded in empathy. While these courses pushed me to grow, my financial circumstances often made it difficult to fully access all the opportunities available to students in more stable situations. I didn’t have the benefit of private tutoring, expensive prep courses, or a quiet study space at home. At times, I had to balance school with work or take on extra responsibilities at home. These experiences forced me to become resourceful and resilient, even when things felt overwhelming. There were moments when I questioned whether all the hard work would pay off, but I reminded myself that every challenge was shaping me into someone stronger and more capable. The path hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to adapt, persevere, and keep going even when the odds were against me. Despite these challenges, I remained committed to my goals. I believe strongly in the power of education to transform lives, and I’ve always seen college as a way to build a better future, not just for myself, but for my family and community. I want to become a civil engineer so I can design and build structures that improve everyday life, whether it's through safer roads, sustainable water systems, or affordable housing. I want my work to reflect the values I was raised with: kindness, service, and determination. As I prepare for this next chapter, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned both inside and outside the classroom. I know that being kind and working hard will continue to serve me well, whether I’m solving a complex design problem, managing a team, or collaborating with others on a project that makes a real difference.

Some of the most important lessons I’ve learned didn’t come from a classroom, they came from the streets I walked growing up. In my neighborhood, sidewalks were cracked or missing, streetlights flickered out for weeks, and reliable transportation was a luxury. These weren’t just inconveniences; they were daily reminders that some communities are overlooked. Living in a low-income household, I saw firsthand how infrastructure can either support or limit opportunity. That’s what led me to civil engineering. As a young Black woman pursuing a career in a field where people who look like me are rarely represented, I carry more than ambition, I carry purpose. My background has shaped my perspective and fueled a desire to change systems that have historically excluded people like me and the communities I come from. Civil engineering isn’t just about designing roads or bridges. For me, it’s about creating access, safety, and dignity through the built environment. Growing up, I didn’t have engineers in my family or know anyone in STEM. What I had was curiosity, determination, and a drive to turn obstacles into motivation. I taught myself how to problem-solve by fixing things around the house, helping my younger siblings with homework, and volunteering wherever I could. I became the kind of leader who listens first, who brings people together, and who takes action when it matters. Whether mentoring younger students or organizing a service project, I’ve always seen leadership as a form of service. My experiences have also taught me the importance of representation. I want to be a face and voice in civil engineering that reflects the diversity of the world we live in. I want young girls, especially Black girls from low-income communities, to see what’s possible, to know that they can design cities, shape policies, and lead teams. I didn’t always see myself in this field, but now I want to make sure others can. Pursuing a degree in civil engineering will equip me with the skills and knowledge to tackle real-world challenges, things like urban flooding, unsafe roadways, or outdated public transit systems. I plan to specialize in sustainable infrastructure and community-focused design, with a focus on equity and environmental justice. After earning my degree, I hope to work on projects that directly impact underserved neighborhoods and eventually advocate for better planning policies at the city or state level. My goal is simple: to build systems that uplift rather than exclude. Through my education, I plan to leave a lasting impact, not just through the structures I help create, but through the lives they touch.

Books have shown me that civil engineering is about more than just math and materials. It’s about people. It’s about the kind of world we want to build, and who we’re building it for. As someone who grew up in a low-income neighborhood, I’ve seen how infrastructure can either support a community or hold it back. Books helped me realize that I want to be the kind of engineer who makes sure it does the former. One book that changed how I think was "The Death and Life of Great American Cities" by Jane Jacobs. Before reading it, I thought of cities in terms of buildings and highways. But Jacobs made me see how city planning affects daily life, whether people feel safe walking to school, whether small businesses can thrive, whether a neighborhood feels alive or empty. She helped me understand that engineers and planners have the power to shape the rhythms of entire communities. That was the first time I saw engineering as something human, not just technical. Fiction has influenced me too. "Les Misérables" made a big impact on me. It told the story of people crushed by poverty and injustice, people who were often trapped by circumstances they didn’t choose. Growing up, I recognized some of those struggles in real life. I saw bus stops with no shelters in the rain, sidewalks that just ended, and roads full of potholes in the neighborhoods people forgot about. That book didn’t just move me, it motivated me. It reminded me that my future career could be a way to fight inequality, not just build stuff. Other books like "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Grapes of Wrath" taught me to pay attention to whose voices get heard and whose don’t. That’s something I carry with me when I think about the kinds of projects I want to work on. I don’t want to just build bridges, I want to connect people. I want to work on infrastructure that gives people better access to school, work, and healthcare. I want to make sure that no one is left behind just because of where they live. Books gave me more than ideas, they gave me purpose. They helped me connect my personal experiences with a bigger picture, and they showed me that engineering can be a force for change. I want to be a civil engineer who listens, who sees the people behind the plans, and who builds with intention and heart.

Growing up in an abusive and low-income household has made the path to higher education one of the hardest things I’ve ever pursued. My home was never a peaceful or stable place. There were constant arguments, financial strain, and times when I didn’t feel safe. As a child, I often had to mature quickly and take on responsibilities that most kids my age didn’t have to think about. While others were focused on enjoying their childhood, I was trying to find ways to stay emotionally strong and focused on school, even when everything around me felt chaotic. School became more than just a place to learn, it was my escape, my motivation, and my hope for something better. I knew early on that education could open doors and offer me the stability I never had growing up. Despite the emotional toll and financial barriers, I stayed committed to my academics and continued pushing forward. That’s why getting into college and choosing to study civil engineering means so much to me. It’s not just about getting a degree, it’s about breaking a cycle and building a better life for myself and, hopefully, others. I chose civil engineering because I want to contribute to something meaningful. I want to design safe, efficient, and reliable infrastructure that improves people's lives, especially in communities like the one I grew up in, where resources were limited and basic needs weren’t always met. I believe everyone deserves to live in a place that feels safe and supported, and civil engineering gives me the chance to help make that a reality. I want to use the skills I gain to make a real difference in the world. Receiving this scholarship would lift a huge weight off my shoulders. Right now, I’m constantly juggling the pressure of school with the stress of wondering how I’ll afford textbooks, tuition, and transportation. Financial aid helps, but it doesn’t cover everything, and every dollar makes a difference. This scholarship would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on how I’m going to make ends meet. It would give me peace of mind and a sense of relief that I haven’t felt in a long time. But more than that, receiving this support would show me that I’m not alone, that someone believes in me and the future I’m working so hard to build. It would remind me that where I come from doesn’t define where I can go, and that my dreams are worth fighting for.

The Giles family motto, “the two most important things are to be nice and hard-working,” perfectly aligns with the values I have developed through both my academic journey and personal experiences. Growing up in a low-income household, I have faced obstacles that have required resilience, determination, and kindness, not just toward others, but also toward myself as I navigate challenges on my path to higher education. The advanced courses I have taken, including AP Psychology, AP Literature, AP Environmental Science, and English 102, have strengthened my work ethic while also deepening my understanding of people, the world, and the power of perseverance. AP Psychology has helped me develop empathy and a greater awareness of human behavior. By learning about cognitive and emotional processes, I have become more understanding of others’ struggles, reinforcing the importance of kindness in everyday interactions. This course has also taught me about motivation and resilience, qualities I have had to embody as I work toward my academic and career goals despite financial limitations. AP Literature and English 102 have challenged me to think critically and communicate effectively. Through analyzing complex texts, writing research papers, and engaging in discussions, I have learned to express myself clearly and persuasively. These skills have been essential as I advocate for myself in academic and financial situations, whether applying for scholarships, seeking opportunities, or overcoming educational barriers. The workload in these courses has also reinforced my strong work ethic, as success requires dedication, time management, and persistence. AP Environmental Science has deepened my understanding of sustainability and the connection between socioeconomic status and environmental challenges. Growing up in a low-income household, I have personally seen how economic disadvantages can lead to limited access to clean air, green spaces, and sustainable resources. This course has inspired me to pursue civil engineering with a focus on creating equitable, environmentally responsible infrastructure that benefits all communities, regardless of income level. Despite my financial circumstances making higher education more difficult to access, I have remained committed to my education, pushing myself through rigorous coursework to prepare for college and beyond. The challenges of balancing school, financial concerns, and future aspirations have only reinforced my determination to work hard and remain kind, just as the Giles family motto encourages. By excelling in my studies and maintaining a positive, compassionate outlook, I am proving that success is possible, no matter the obstacles, as long as I stay true to these guiding principles.

Growing up in a low-income household, I experienced firsthand how poor infrastructure and financial instability can impact daily life. From unreliable housing to poorly maintained roads and public spaces, I saw how a lack of resources and planning can make life even more difficult for struggling families. My personal experiences with instability and hardship motivated me to pursue civil engineering, not just as a career, but as a means to create positive change in communities like the one I grew up in. Civil engineering is more than designing buildings and roads; it is about creating safe, sustainable, and functional environments where people can thrive. I want to use my education to improve infrastructure in underserved communities, ensuring that families have access to safe homes, reliable transportation, and resilient public spaces. I understand what it means to struggle due to circumstances beyond one’s control, and I want to contribute to solutions that make life easier for those facing similar challenges. My passion for civil engineering is also deeply tied to my personal journey. Growing up with an abusive father, I often felt a lack of stability and security. This instability pushed me to seek structure elsewhere, through my education and my desire to build things that last. I found comfort in problem-solving, designing, and understanding how things work, which naturally led me to engineering. I want to take this passion and turn it into a career that allows me to construct safe, reliable, and long-lasting infrastructure that positively impacts people’s lives. Pursuing an education in civil engineering is not just about securing a better future for myself; it’s about using my knowledge and skills to uplift others. I know that education is my best path forward, and I am determined to work hard to achieve my goals. However, financial struggles remain a significant challenge. Scholarships and financial assistance will allow me to focus on my education rather than constantly worrying about how to afford tuition and other expenses. With a degree in civil engineering, I plan to dedicate my career to improving the built environment, particularly in areas where strong infrastructure is needed most. My background has given me a deep appreciation for the importance of stability, both in life and in the world around us, and I am determined to use my education to build a better future, not just for myself, but for others as well. I want to contribute to projects that provide safe housing, efficient transportation, and resilient infrastructure that withstands time and challenges. Through hard work and perseverance, I will turn my experiences into motivation to create lasting, meaningful change.

Growing up in a low-income household with an abusive father, I faced hardships that shaped me into the person I am today. Financial instability was a constant struggle, and home was often a place of fear rather than security. These challenges forced me to mature quickly, teaching me resilience, independence, and the importance of perseverance. Education became my refuge, an opportunity to build a future far different from the one I was born into. Despite these difficulties, I remained determined to succeed. Limited resources often meant sacrificing basic needs, but I never let financial hardship deter me from my academic goals. My passion for civil engineering stems from my desire to create stability, not just for myself, but for communities in need. I want to design infrastructure that improves lives, especially in underserved areas where safe and reliable structures can make a lasting impact. This scholarship would relieve a significant financial burden and allow me to focus fully on my education. Without it, the cost of tuition, books, and living expenses would be a constant barrier to my success. More than just financial support, this scholarship represents an opportunity to break free from the cycle of hardship and turn my aspirations into reality. With a degree in civil engineering, I aim to create a future built on strength, stability, and purpose, one where I can give back and inspire others facing similar struggles.

Growing up in a low-income household with an abusive father, I faced challenges that tested my strength from an early age. Financial struggles were a constant burden, and home was often a place of fear rather than comfort. Despite these hardships, I found refuge in education. School became my escape, a place where I could focus on learning, set goals for my future, and envision a life beyond the difficulties I faced at home. My experiences have fueled my determination to pursue civil engineering. Coming from an unstable environment, I understand firsthand the importance of strong foundations, both in life and in the structures that support communities. Civil engineering represents more than just a career to me; it is a way to build stability, create solutions, and contribute to the world in a meaningful way. I want to design infrastructure that improves lives, especially in underserved communities where reliable structures and safe environments can make a lasting difference. Despite financial obstacles, I have remained committed to my education. I have worked hard to overcome adversity, knowing that earning a degree will not only change my life but also allow me to uplift others. With my education, I hope to build a future where I can break the cycle of struggle and provide a better life for myself and those around me. The University of South Carolina and the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing represent an opportunity to turn my determination into action. With the right resources and support, I am confident that I will succeed in this field and use my skills to create a positive impact. My past may have shaped me, but it will not define my future, I am determined to build something better, both for myself and for the world.

This past summer, I went to a summer camp at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. This summer camp was intended for African American students, such as myself, who had stellar academic qualities that made us a good target for the program. At the time, I wasn't sure I wanted to attend the school because I had dreamed of attending a college closer to the beach. During this week-long program, I had lots of fun, but one instance in particular left a mark on me. For some backstory, all of the counselors at the camp were either students at USC, or very recent graduates, so they were all in their early 20s, making them slightly irresponsible, as many college kids at this age are. As the program progressed over a few days, the counselors slightly started slacking off, this was quite unusual, as I was used to being put in a position of listening to those older than me, yet they were putting me and many others of the camp participants in positions where we had to take over. One instance in particular, was when all of the campers and counselors were returning from the rec center, back to the dorms, where we were staying. The counselors started to get quite behind, and instead of walking with their assigned campers, the counselors were walking together, until they quickly and unnoticeably disappeared. I was walking in the very front of the large group with a few of my friends and realized the counselors were gone; when I realized this, I knew I had to help get every last camper back to our dorms because even though it wasn't my responsibility as a camper, I knew if every last one of us didn't make it back, serious and dangerous things may have occurred. Naturally, I spoke to my friends about it as we walked in front of everyone, and I stepped off to the side to count everyone as my friends walked ahead and led all of our fellow campers. We eventually found our way back to the dorm, and once we got there, I counted everyone again, and it was the exact number that I had counted when we were outside. This made me feel good, as the impact I had on others was making sure everyone was safe and got back to the dorm as they should. Though it wasn't my responsibility as a camper, and the counselors were in the wrong for leaving us, I stood up to do their job/position, even when no one asked me to. In the future, I plan on continuing to help lead others through my college timeline, by constantly seeking opportunities for growth and development, and even once I land my dream job in forensics, helping solve cases, and using this knowledge to educate and spread awareness on social issues. Additionally, I plan to build a strong and collaborative circle, where everyone feels valued and empowered.

This past summer, I went to a summer camp at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. This summer camp was intended for African American students, such as myself, who had stellar academic qualities that made us a good target for the program. At the time, I wasn't sure I wanted to attend the school because I had dreamed of attending a college closer to the beach. During this week-long program, I had lots of fun, but one instance in particular left a mark on me. For some backstory, all of the counselors at the camp were either students at USC, or very recent graduates, so they were all in their early 20s, making them slightly irresponsible, as many college kids at this age are. So, as the program progressed over a few days, the counselors slightly started slacking off, this was quite unusual, as I was used to being put in a position of listening to those older than me, yet they were putting me and many others of the camp participants in positions where we had to take over. One instance in particular, was when all of the campers and counselors were returning from the rec center, back to the dorms, where we were staying. The counselors started to get quite behind, and instead of walking with their assigned campers, the counselors were walking together, until they quickly and unnoticeably disappeared. I was walking in the very front of the large group with a few of my friends and realized the counselors were gone; when I realized this, I knew I had to help get every last camper back to our dorms because even though it wasn't my responsibility as a camper, I knew if every last one of us didn't make it back, serious and dangerous things may have occurred. So naturally, I spoke to my friends about it as we walked in front of everyone, and I stepped off to the side to count everyone as my friends walked ahead and led all of our fellow campers. We eventually found our way back to the dorm, and once we got there, I counted everyone again, and it was the exact number that I had counted when we were outside. This made me feel good, as the impact I had on others was making sure everyone was safe and got back to the dorm as they should. Though it wasn't my responsibility as a camper, and the counselors were in the wrong for leaving us, I stood up to do their job/position, even when no one asked me to. In the future, I plan on continuing to help lead others through my college timeline, by constantly seeking opportunities for growth and development, and even once I land my dream job in forensics, helping solve cases, and using this knowledge to educate and spread awareness on social issues. Additionally, I plan to build a strong and collaborative circle, where everyone feels valued and empowered.