I didn’t grow up around engineers or expensive gadgets. I grew up surviving. I’m a single mom, a first-gen college student, and someone who has had to hustle just to keep Wi-Fi on and food in the fridge. But even in the hardest moments, I’ve always had one thing that nobody could take from me — curiosity. That spark has carried me through late nights teaching myself to code, and into a dream of using tech to build something that helps people feel seen. I remember the exact moment I fell in love with creating through technology. I had downloaded Unity — not even knowing how powerful it really was — and started experimenting. Tutorials turned into prototypes, and soon I had built a creepy, short narrative horror game as part of my YouTube project focused on digital mysteries. It wasn’t perfect, but when I showed it to my friends and a few classmates, they were shocked I made it alone. “Wait… you did all this yourself?” Their excitement reminded me that creating isn’t just about impressing people — it’s about surprising them, inviting them in, and maybe even inspiring them to try, too. That’s the moment I knew: I want to delight people with code. I want to make games that make them feel something. That scare them, heal them, challenge them — or just make them laugh. Especially people like me, who have been through too much too young, and think dreams like this aren’t for them. I’ve always had a “hacker” mindset, not in the illegal sense, but in the way Kyle Lam lived: pushing limits, experimenting, building something out of nothing, and doing it with love. I’m constantly tinkering — with AI tools, Unity mechanics, mobile apps — looking for new ways to tell stories that matter. And like Kyle, I try to lead with generosity. I’m the person people turn to when they’re stuck. Whether it’s debugging their code, helping them brainstorm a game, or just encouraging them to believe in themselves, I show up. Because no one gets through this journey alone. That’s why Kyle’s story moved me. He reminded me that brilliance doesn’t have to be loud — it can be quiet, generous, humble. It can show up with grace and still change the world. If I receive this scholarship, I’ll carry Kyle’s legacy forward by continuing to build tools, games, and experiences that give people joy and hope. And I’ll always keep the door open behind me — for every student who feels like an outsider in tech, for every dreamer who thinks they’re too broke, too tired, too late. I want to be proof that you can start with nothing and still build something beautiful. Because in the end, what we make matters. And why we make it — that matters even more.

I’ve been through seasons where I didn’t know how I was going to eat, sleep, or survive the day — let alone afford a therapist. But even in my darkest moments, I knew I wasn’t alone. God never let go of me. That faith, and my deep belief that nobody should suffer in silence, is why I’m committed to making mental health care accessible for all. My contribution to the world will be rooted in both technology and healing. I’m studying Computer Science not just to build a career, but to build tools that serve. I want to create free or low-cost mental health apps, virtual spaces for emotional check-ins, and support tools that blend tech with real spiritual grounding. I dream of designing digital sanctuaries — places people can turn to when therapy is too expensive, when family doesn’t understand, or when they just need someone (or something) to say, “You are not alone.” I’ve been that girl crying alone in the dark, praying for peace. And I know there are thousands more like me — young moms, students, dreamers — who are just trying to hold it all together. I want them to feel seen, supported, and spiritually reminded that their life has purpose. My calling is to be a vessel — using every skill I learn to help others hold on, heal, and hope.

My name is Tiffany Armstrong, and I'm currently pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Computer Science at Colorado Technical University, where I proudly maintain a 4.0 GPA. As an African American woman and first-generation college student, my journey into the STEM field has been profoundly shaped by personal experiences and a deep-rooted desire to foster positive change in my community. Growing up, I faced numerous challenges, including housing insecurity, my parents' divorce when I was eight years old, and limited access to technological resources. Additionally, at the age of eight, I experienced racism firsthand from a family friend's brother, an encounter that left a lasting impact and heightened my awareness of social inequalities. These hardships underscored a critical issue—the stark digital divide disproportionately affecting minority and economically disadvantaged communities. My personal experience highlighted how limited access to technology negatively impacts educational and professional opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. This realization ignited a passion within me to bridge this gap and use technology as a tool for empowerment. One particularly impactful experience occurred during my senior year of high school when I took my first computer science class. Initially intimidated by the unfamiliarity of coding, I soon found myself captivated by its logic and problem-solving nature. For our final project, we were tasked with creating a simple educational game. Inspired by my own struggles with limited access to learning resources, I chose to develop an app designed to make basic coding concepts accessible and engaging for younger students in underserved communities. Through trial and error, research, and resilience, I successfully developed a functional prototype. Presenting my project at our school's technology fair was a transformative moment. Students and parents from backgrounds similar to mine expressed genuine interest and excitement about the app's potential. Seeing their enthusiasm sparked a profound sense of purpose—I realized my passion for computer science extended far beyond mere technical interest. I saw firsthand how technology could serve as a powerful equalizer, providing opportunities to those historically left behind. Driven by this purpose, I chose Computer Science as my field of study, determined to deepen my technical expertise to effect meaningful change. My academic journey has only strengthened my resolve. Every class and project reaffirms my commitment to creating accessible technological solutions that can empower individuals and uplift entire communities. As I advance in my educational and professional career, my goal is to develop innovative educational technologies that reduce the digital divide and increase representation in STEM fields, particularly among African American women. My personal experiences have instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility and dedication. They continue to motivate me daily, reminding me that the challenges I have faced have uniquely prepared me to create impactful, sustainable change through the transformative power of technology.

**Tell us about yourself.** My name is Tiffany Armstrong, and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Colorado Technical University, proudly maintaining a 4.0 GPA. I'm a first-generation college student, African American woman, and a mother dedicated to breaking cycles of generational hardship. My life's journey has been one of resilience and determination. Having experienced housing insecurity and financial struggles, I am deeply motivated by the desire to create stability and opportunities not only for myself but for my child. I’m passionate about technology and its potential to transform lives, and I strive to use my skills to foster inclusivity and bridge gaps in access and opportunity within my community. **What’s a real-world issue you feel deeply connected to, and why?** The issue that resonates profoundly with me is the digital divide—the unequal access to technology and the internet among underserved communities, particularly African American families. Having personally experienced limited access to essential resources due to economic hardships, I understand firsthand how such inequalities impact education, job opportunities, and overall quality of life. This digital divide perpetuates poverty, limits social mobility, and prevents countless talented individuals from realizing their potential. **If you had the power to make change in that area, what would you do?** If given the opportunity and resources, I would launch comprehensive community technology centers and digital literacy programs in underserved neighborhoods. These centers would provide free access to high-speed internet, computer hardware, and training workshops in coding, software use, cybersecurity, and digital literacy. Furthermore, I'd advocate for partnerships with local businesses and tech companies to facilitate mentorship programs, internships, and job placement services, creating pathways to meaningful employment and sustained economic growth. **How did you choose your area of study, and what do you hope to do with it?** My passion for technology emerged from my realization of how significantly tech innovation can transform disadvantaged communities. Choosing Computer Science was driven by the recognition of technology as a powerful equalizer. My goal is to become a software engineer focused on developing accessible technologies and educational platforms aimed at bridging educational and economic disparities. I envision creating software solutions that empower communities, enhance learning opportunities, and promote digital equity. **What’s one goal you’ve set for yourself in the next 5 years—and how do you plan to get there?** In the next five years, my primary goal is to secure a position as a software engineer at a leading tech company dedicated to social innovation. To achieve this, I will complete my Bachelor’s degree, actively pursue internships and certifications to gain practical experience, and build a professional network through mentorship and industry events. Additionally, I intend to contribute to open-source projects and participate in coding communities to hone my technical skills and broaden my professional reach. **How has education helped you better understand yourself and your purpose?** Education has been a transformative force in my life, clarifying my purpose and reinforcing my resilience. Through my coursework and interactions with peers and professors, I’ve discovered my passion for solving complex problems and my strength in persevering through challenges. Education has deepened my understanding of the systematic issues facing marginalized communities, reaffirming my dedication to using my technical skills to create tangible, lasting change. **How has your identity as a woman influenced the way you move through the world?** My identity as an African American woman has profoundly shaped my experiences, instilling resilience, empathy, and a determination to defy expectations. In pursuing a STEM career—a field historically dominated by men—I’ve faced biases and challenges that have only intensified my resolve. These experiences have empowered me to advocate fiercely for diversity and inclusion, inspiring me to support and mentor other young women of color entering tech fields. **What does leadership mean to you—and how have you embodied it?** Leadership, to me, is the capacity to inspire, empower, and guide others toward achieving shared goals. It involves empathy, accountability, and the courage to advocate for meaningful change. I have embodied leadership by mentoring peers in my academic program, organizing study groups, and serving as a resource for classmates navigating similar struggles. Leadership for me is also reflected in my daily efforts to uplift my family and community through education and advocacy. **Describe a time you had to be resourceful or resilient. What did you learn from it?** When faced with housing insecurity, I had to quickly adapt, finding temporary living arrangements and maintaining my academic responsibilities despite uncertainty. This period taught me invaluable lessons in resourcefulness, perseverance, and self-reliance. It reinforced my belief in the importance of education as a means to stability and underscored my resolve never to give up on my goals, regardless of how difficult circumstances become. **If awarded this scholarship, how would it help you pursue your dreams?** Receiving this scholarship would significantly alleviate the financial burdens of my education, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and professional growth. It would enable me to invest in critical resources, such as reliable technology and specialized training programs, vital for my success in Computer Science. Moreover, this support would affirm my belief that perseverance through adversity leads to meaningful opportunities, empowering me further to serve as a role model and mentor for others facing similar struggles.

My name is Tiffany Armstrong, and I am a resilient Black woman, a dedicated single mother of four, a survivor, and an aspiring innovator committed to creating positive change. My life has been shaped profoundly by a series of significant challenges—domestic violence, housing instability, financial hardship—but equally defined by my determination, creativity, and relentless optimism. Growing up, I faced numerous obstacles that tested my strength and resilience. The most defining of these was experiencing intimate partner violence, which taught me painful yet powerful lessons about courage, independence, and self-worth. Leaving that abusive relationship required immense bravery. Rebuilding my life afterward required even more. Yet through it all, I remained committed to my dreams and to providing a better future for my children. My experiences have deeply informed my values of perseverance, empathy, community, and advocacy. Being a survivor has given me a profound understanding of the importance of mental health, supportive networks, and equitable access to resources, especially for Black women and mothers who often navigate additional systemic barriers. Driven by these experiences and values, I am pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science with a specific focus on game development, digital storytelling, and artificial intelligence. My passion for technology is rooted in its transformative potential—technology can amplify voices, democratize access, and foster genuine social change. My chosen field allows me to blend creativity with practical problem-solving to address critical social issues, empowering marginalized communities and highlighting underrepresented narratives. My leadership and mentorship roles reflect these values as well. Through my digital platform, Dark Discoveries, I actively share stories that shed light on hidden cultural narratives, historical truths, and social injustices. I mentor young women within my community, encouraging their interest in technology and emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, resilience, and education. Leading by example, I demonstrate that despite adversities, it is possible to achieve excellence and make meaningful impacts. Completing my degree will significantly advance both my personal and professional goals. Professionally, I aim to secure a role at a leading technology or gaming company, like Rockstar Games, to contribute to projects that champion diverse storytelling, representation, and social awareness. Personally, my degree represents the culmination of perseverance, resilience, and the fulfillment of a promise to myself and my children that adversity can be transformed into opportunity. Beyond personal achievements, my ultimate goal is to leverage my education and skills to uplift others and create lasting community impacts. I envision developing accessible digital resources specifically tailored to survivors of domestic violence and single mothers navigating challenging circumstances. Using technology, I intend to build platforms providing educational content, mental health support, financial literacy resources, and safe virtual communities where women can connect, heal, and empower one another. Furthermore, through ongoing community service and mentorship initiatives, I am committed to increasing representation and opportunities for Black women in STEM fields. My goal is not merely personal advancement but to actively open doors and create pathways for the next generation. My success will be measured by the number of lives positively impacted and by the barriers I help dismantle. Receiving this scholarship would significantly enhance my ability to pursue these ambitious yet essential objectives. It would provide crucial support, enabling me to fully dedicate myself to academic excellence, professional development, and community engagement. In conclusion, my life's journey has equipped me with invaluable lessons, unwavering strength, and deep compassion. I am determined to use my education not only to build a brighter future for myself and my family but also to inspire and uplift those around me, proving that resilience and passion can indeed drive transformative change.

One project I've been particularly passionate about is my digital storytelling platform, Dark Discoveries. Through this project, I explore unsolved mysteries, true crime stories, and eerie digital narratives, emphasizing cultural connections and voices often overlooked by mainstream media. What began as a creative outlet has transformed into a meaningful endeavor combining my fascination with technology, storytelling, and social advocacy. Creating Dark Discoveries required me to dive deeply into various technical skills, including digital video editing, graphic design, content scripting, and online community management. Each episode involves careful research, meticulous storytelling, and the technical expertise necessary to deliver compelling narratives to an engaged audience. Through this process, I discovered the extraordinary power technology has to amplify voices, share critical messages, and educate communities about issues that matter. Working on this project has also profoundly deepened my passion for technology. I've always been inspired by technology's capacity to create connections and foster empathy across diverse audiences. With Dark Discoveries, I’ve witnessed firsthand how well-executed technology can captivate attention, evoke emotional responses, and inspire meaningful dialogue. Each story I produce leverages digital tools to shine a spotlight on social issues, historical contexts, and overlooked perspectives, further affirming my belief in technology as a catalyst for change. My personal experiences have significantly shaped the content and direction of Dark Discoveries. As a survivor of domestic violence and a single mother navigating considerable adversity, I recognize the importance of highlighting narratives that challenge stigma, confront injustice, and foster understanding. My experiences fuel my dedication to creating content that provides a voice for marginalized communities, offering viewers nuanced perspectives and education about sensitive issues often shrouded in silence. Through my pursuit of a Computer Science degree, I aim to expand my technical skills to elevate this project further. I'm excited to integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, interactive digital media, and virtual reality to enhance viewer engagement and impact. My goal is to transform Dark Discoveries into a more interactive and immersive platform, using technology to allow audiences to explore narratives deeply, empathize profoundly, and take meaningful action. Working in technology inspires me because it continuously opens doors to innovation and creativity. Every new tool or skill I learn expands my capacity to affect positive change. Technology isn't merely functional; it's transformative. It enables storytellers like me to transcend traditional boundaries and reach diverse audiences worldwide, fostering empathy, education, and awareness. In every line of code, in every edited frame of video, I see an opportunity to tell powerful stories that matter, provoke critical thought, and inspire social action. This scholarship would support my ongoing efforts to strengthen my technological capabilities, providing resources that allow me to continue developing Dark Discoveries and other impactful digital projects. It would facilitate access to advanced software, educational resources, and opportunities to collaborate with industry professionals, further empowering my work. In conclusion, my experience with Dark Discoveries illustrates the profound inspiration I draw from technology and storytelling. Each project reinforces my commitment to using technology creatively and ethically to address pressing societal challenges. Through continued education and innovation, I am dedicated to leveraging technology as a powerful medium for advocacy, education, and meaningful social change.

My area of focus in school is Computer Science, specifically game development, digital storytelling, and artificial intelligence. These areas captivate me because they blend creativity, technical skill, and storytelling in ways that profoundly impact communities and individuals. I chose this path not simply because of my fascination with technology but because I recognize its unique power to drive social change, representation, and empowerment, particularly within marginalized communities. As a single mother of four who has overcome significant personal adversity, including domestic violence and housing instability, my educational journey has not been straightforward. Yet, these experiences have only strengthened my resolve. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while raising my children alone, attending therapy, and managing daily responsibilities reflects my unwavering determination and commitment to my goals. Each challenge I've faced has deepened my desire to leverage technology as a tool for advocacy, education, and positive transformation. One of my primary career objectives is to enter the field of game development, ideally working with a leading company like Rockstar Games. I want to contribute to creating narratives and digital experiences that authentically represent diverse voices, especially those of African American women and other underrepresented groups. I believe that storytelling through immersive, interactive media has immense potential to challenge harmful stereotypes, foster empathy, and spark meaningful conversations about societal issues. Additionally, my passion extends to digital content creation through my own platform, Dark Discoveries, where I explore true crime, digital mysteries, and untold cultural narratives. My goal is to further develop this brand, employing advanced technologies like AI and interactive media to enhance storytelling, increase audience engagement, and expand its educational reach. Dark Discoveries isn't just entertainment—it's a channel for advocacy, education, and cultural exploration. To pursue these goals effectively, I am committed to continuous learning and practical skill-building. Throughout my degree program, I actively seek additional training in game design software, coding languages, narrative development, and interactive media creation. I'm also exploring internship opportunities and networking within the tech and gaming industries to gain firsthand experience and industry insights. My aspiration is to secure a role or internship with a reputable tech or game development firm before graduating, ensuring a smooth transition from academia into professional practice. Beyond technical expertise, I plan to leverage my experiences to mentor and inspire others, particularly women and single mothers navigating similar struggles. I want to demonstrate, through my own example, that resilience, education, and passion can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. My educational success and professional achievements will be tools to empower and uplift others, fostering pathways for those who feel trapped by circumstances or societal barriers. This scholarship would significantly advance my ability to achieve these goals by alleviating the constant financial strain associated with raising a family alone while pursuing higher education. It would enable me to invest more deeply in my studies, secure critical resources, and participate fully in opportunities that directly align with my academic and career aspirations. In conclusion, my educational focus on computer science and digital storytelling is more than a personal passion—it's a deliberate choice aimed at creating meaningful social impact. By pursuing these goals with clarity, determination, and purpose, I aim not only to advance my own life but to contribute positively to the broader community, proving that technology, creativity, and storytelling can indeed change lives.

Education has a powerful role in reducing intimate partner violence (IPV) by addressing its roots—ignorance, stigma, and systemic silence. IPV thrives in darkness and secrecy, and education provides the necessary tools, knowledge, and empowerment to illuminate this hidden crisis, offering a clear path to prevention and support. Firstly, education raises awareness about what constitutes intimate partner violence. Many people grow up without understanding the subtle forms IPV can take, such as emotional abuse, financial control, coercive behavior, and isolation tactics. Education demystifies IPV, allowing individuals to recognize unhealthy patterns early on. By incorporating IPV education into school curricula, community workshops, and media campaigns, we can create a widespread understanding of abuse, dismantling harmful stereotypes and misconceptions. Secondly, education empowers victims to seek help by removing stigma and shame. Many victims stay silent because society often blames them rather than the abuser. Education fosters a culture of compassion and support rather than judgment. Comprehensive education programs teach people how to identify, respond to, and safely exit abusive relationships. When individuals understand their rights and the resources available, they're better equipped to protect themselves and advocate for their safety. Additionally, education can effectively target potential abusers. Through education, especially from an early age, we can challenge toxic norms around masculinity, dominance, and control that often underpin abusive behavior. Schools and communities can provide spaces for discussions on consent, healthy relationships, and emotional intelligence, guiding individuals toward respectful interactions and healthier relationships. By intervening before abusive patterns form, education can significantly reduce the likelihood of IPV. My personal experiences deeply inform my commitment to using my education to combat IPV. As a survivor who endured physical and emotional abuse from my child’s father, I understand firsthand the isolation, fear, and devastation IPV causes. After escaping this abuse, rebuilding my life, and engaging in ongoing therapy, I have dedicated myself to creating a safer, more supportive world for other survivors. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, with a goal to leverage technology and storytelling as powerful tools for change. My experience in tech and digital media provides unique opportunities to reach wide audiences effectively. I envision developing accessible digital platforms and applications designed specifically for IPV survivors, offering confidential resources, safety planning, and immediate crisis intervention. These tools could be particularly beneficial to marginalized communities, where stigma and limited access to resources are often compounded. In addition to tech solutions, my content brand, Dark Discoveries, allows me to highlight hidden narratives, including those surrounding IPV and other societal issues. Through this platform, I plan to produce informative, compelling, and compassionate content that sheds light on IPV, dispelling myths, educating viewers, and fostering empathy and understanding. Moreover, I intend to collaborate with advocacy organizations and community groups to conduct workshops, webinars, and outreach programs, further disseminating vital IPV education and resources. My journey—from victim to empowered advocate and creator—demonstrates the transformative power of education and support. Ultimately, education isn't just about informing—it's about empowering. With knowledge, compassion, and the right tools, we can drastically reduce IPV's prevalence. Through my degree, my personal experiences, and my dedication to advocacy, I am committed to contributing to a future where intimate partner violence is not just recognized and responded to but prevented altogether.

My name is Tiffany Armstrong. I’m a single mother of four, a full-time college student, a survivor of domestic violence, and someone who refuses to give up. I’m currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a 4.0 GPA. That GPA is more than just a number—it represents sleepless nights, therapy sessions, childcare challenges, and the quiet strength it takes to keep pushing forward alone. My passion for computer science started from simple curiosity. I’ve always been fascinated by how technology works, but I soon realized it could be a tool for empowerment, especially for people who feel unseen. I want to use tech not just to build things—but to tell stories, solve problems, and create safe spaces for those who need them. My interest in game development and digital storytelling grew when I began building Dark Discoveries, my own content brand that explores true crime and eerie mysteries through a cultural lens. I saw how much impact storytelling could have, and I knew I wanted to do more. I dream of working with a major studio like Rockstar Games to help create powerful, immersive narratives that reflect real struggles and diverse voices—especially those of Black women. My journey hasn’t been easy. I escaped a deeply abusive relationship with the father of my children. He was emotionally cold and physically violent—once hitting me so hard in the face I saw stars for weeks. I knew then I had to leave. I moved, started over from scratch, and entered therapy, which I’ve continued for the past two years. I also adopted a puppy named Muffin—my emotional support dog who’s helped bring warmth and healing back into our home. Despite everything, I’ve stayed focused. I attend classes full-time, raise four children on my own, and still maintain a 4.0 GPA. I’ve learned to manage my time with intention and grit. Every quiz, paper, and project I complete is proof that I’m not only surviving—I’m building something greater. This scholarship would make a huge difference for me. Right now, every dollar matters. I’m doing everything I can to keep up with bills, buy supplies, and keep my kids and I in a safe, stable home while continuing my education. This scholarship would provide more than financial relief—it would give me space to focus, create, and breathe. It would allow me to continue showing up fully for school, my children, and the work I’m building toward. I believe I’m the best candidate because I’ve already proven I’m committed. I’ve overcome abuse, poverty, and isolation—and still come out with excellence and purpose. I want to use everything I’ve lived through to help others heal, grow, and thrive through tech, creativity, and compassion. Thank you for considering me. I’m not just asking for help—I’m asking for the chance to keep rising.

My name is Tiffany Armstrong. I’m a full-time student, a creative, a survivor, and a woman rebuilding her life from the ground up. I’ve experienced what it means to lose everything—and I’ve also learned what it takes to start over with almost nothing but faith, hope, and sheer willpower. I’m currently working toward my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, with a focus on game development and technology. But I’m not just studying to get a diploma—I’m trying to build a better future for myself and for others who’ve been through the kinds of things I’ve survived. A few years ago, I was in a relationship that nearly broke me. I suffered emotional, psychological, and physical abuse at the hands of someone I once trusted—the father of my child. I was isolated, degraded, and hurt in ways that left deep scars. There were moments when I thought I’d never make it out. But eventually, I did. I left, even when I was scared. I moved into a new place on my own. I started therapy. I adopted a dog. I began putting the pieces of myself back together, one day at a time. I’ve been in therapy for two years now, learning how to navigate life after trauma. I’m still healing. But I’ve come a long way. And through this process, I discovered a fire inside me—not just to survive, but to thrive. I want to use everything I’ve been through as fuel to create change, especially for other Black women who feel invisible in systems that weren’t built for us. My goals are big, but they’re rooted in purpose. I want to use technology to develop tools and platforms that empower people—especially those impacted by domestic violence, trauma, or injustice. Whether it’s through game design, storytelling, or AI-powered support systems, I’m committed to creating something that matters. I also run a content platform called Dark Discoveries, where I use digital storytelling to highlight eerie, unsolved, and overlooked narratives—often weaving in deeper commentary about race, womanhood, and resilience. But getting to the finish line isn’t easy. I’m currently living on a tight budget, working with limited resources while trying to balance my education, my healing, and basic needs like housing and transportation. I’m doing the best I can—but sometimes, it feels like the system is set up to make students like me quit. This scholarship would relieve that pressure. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and creative work, without having to constantly worry about how I’m going to make rent or afford supplies. It would give me peace of mind. And peace is something I fought hard for. I don’t take this opportunity lightly. I know how rare and precious support like this is, especially for women with my background. That’s why I show up for myself every single day—because I know what it’s like to not have anyone else show up. I’ve learned to advocate for myself, to build something out of nothing, and to keep going even when life hits hard. I’m not perfect, but I’m determined. If awarded this scholarship, I will use it as a stepping stone to keep climbing. I’ll continue learning, growing, healing, and creating. And when I’m in a position to give back—I will. Because I know how much it means to have someone believe in you when you’re trying to rebuild your life from scratch. Thank you for seeing me—and for considering me for this opportunity.

Escaping Abuse and Rebuilding My Life For years, I was trapped in a relationship that slowly stripped away my spirit. My child’s father was emotionally and physically abusive—someone who used manipulation, control, and violence to keep me beneath him. The man who was supposed to protect me was the one who caused me the most harm. I remember crying in front of him one night, breaking down after holding it all together for so long. He looked at me with disgust. Not a hug, not a word of comfort—just silence and blame. That night changed me. But it wasn’t the worst one. The worst was when he hit me in the face so hard I saw stars—for weeks. It wasn’t just the physical pain that hurt, but the way he walked away afterward, as if nothing had happened. I couldn’t look in the mirror the same again. I started to disappear inside myself. But even in my lowest moments, something in me said, this is not the end of your story. Eventually, I gathered the strength to leave. It didn’t happen overnight. It took planning, fear, and courage I didn’t know I had. I moved into a new place on my own. I started over with nothing but faith and determination. I adopted a dog—my sweet puppy Muffin—who became a source of unconditional love and comfort while I healed. Over the past two years, I’ve been in therapy, working through the trauma that abuse left behind. It’s not easy. Some days are still hard. But I now know what it means to prioritize my peace, my safety, and my future. Therapy has helped me recognize patterns of abuse and reclaim my identity outside of survival. I’m learning to trust myself again. That’s why I’m pursuing my degree in Computer Science, with a focus on game development and digital storytelling. I want to create experiences that center Black women’s voices, our stories, our strength—and our pain. There aren’t enough safe spaces for African American women who’ve survived domestic violence, especially when so many of us are ignored or dismissed by the system. I want to change that. Higher education isn’t just about a degree for me—it’s about building a platform to amplify the unspoken. I plan to use technology to develop interactive tools, virtual support spaces, and AI-powered systems that make it easier for survivors to seek help safely, especially in our communities where stigma and silence often keep women trapped. I also want to create content through my media brand Dark Discoveries that educates the public on these issues in ways that are accessible, powerful, and healing. African American women are too often left behind when it comes to care, coordination, and communication around domestic violence. We need more Black therapists. We need more culturally aware tools. We need more advocates who know what it feels like firsthand. That’s who I want to be. Someone who not only survived—but someone who helps others survive, too. This scholarship would not only help me stay in school—it would be a step toward the future I’m building. A future where we are no longer silenced or forgotten. A future where we tell our stories and create systems that support our healing. Thank you for allowing me to share mine.