Mental health is deeply personal to me, not just because of my own experiences, but because it has shaped the very foundation of who I am and who I aspire to be. I grew up in a divorced home, where emotional strain was a constant undercurrent. My father, who struggled with deep depression until his passing, gave me an early glimpse into the quiet battles many people face. As I got older, I found myself coping in unhealthy ways, turning to alcohol and drugs to escape what I didn't yet know how to confront. By early 2024, I had reached a breaking point. I was drinking in the mornings, consumed by anxiety and depression. I felt stuck and exhausted, deep down, I knew I didn't want to live that way anymore. I didn't want to numb myself; I wanted to heal. That's when I made a life-changing decision: to enroll at DeVry University. It was the first meaningful step toward reclaiming my life, and it gave me something I hadn't felt in a long time--hope. My courses not only challenged me intellectually but also gave me peace of mind and a renewed sense of purpose. For the first time in years, I saw a future I actually wanted to work toward. Now, mental health is not just something to manage-it's something I actively advocate for. I use my story to remind others that healing is possible, that their experiences are valid, and that they're not alone. Whether it's encouraging a co-worker to take a mental health day without guilt, offering a listening ear to a classmate, or gently sharing resources with someone who's struggling, I make it a priority to foster compassion and understanding wherever I go. Mental health matters because students can't reach their full potential while silently battling invisible wounds. It's more than just academic success- it's about creating lives we're proud of free from shame and filled with hope. I strive to be a source of light for others, the kind of steady presence I once needed. By sharing honestly, breaking stigma, and supporting others without judgement, I'm helping to build a community that values healing over hiding. My journey isn't one of instant transformation, it's one of continuous growth. But every step forward I take is a testament to what's possible when you choose to believe that change is worth pursuing. I want to use this scholarship as a steppingstone, not only in my educational path but in my commitment to showing others even in darkness, there's always a way forward.

Lif has a way of leading us down unexpected paths, and my journey to higher education has been a testament to resilience, discovery, and ambition. From an early age, I understood the value of hard work-watching my single mother juggle three jobs to provide for our family instilled in me a deep sense of perseverance. While I always had an affinity for numbers and logic, my path to college was not straightforward. Moving from Wisconsin to Tennessee marked a turning point in my life, a step toward finding a fulfilling career and a deeper sense of purpose. Initially, I pursued a degree in Computer Information Systems and Technology at DeVry University, driven by an interest in technology and its transformative power. However, as I delved deeper into my studies, I realized that my true passion lay in accounting and data analysis-a field that not only aligns with my love for math but also provides practical tools to help businesses and communities thrive. Changing my major to accounting was one of the best decisions I have made, allowing me to fully embrace my strengths and career aspirations. Beyond academics, leadership has played a defining role in my growth. Through the Women + Tech Scholarship Program and my involvement in the National Society of Leadership and Success, I have learned valuable lessons about perseverance, mentorship, and the importance of uplifting others. These experiences have reinforced my belief that leadership is not just about personal success-it's about creating opportunities for those around us. Balancing full-time work with online education has been both a challenge and a privilege. It has strengthened my discipline, time management, and resilience, qualities that will serve me well in my career and community engagement. My goal is to graduate in 2028 with a 4.0 GPA, a reflection of my dedication to learning and excellence. However, as a student with financial constraints, scholarship support would be invaluable in easing the financial burden of my education and allowing me to fully focus on my studies. Looking ahead, I aspire to use my knowledge in accounting to make a positive impact in my community, particularly by supporting small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Many entrepreneurs struggle with financial management, and I want to use my expertise to empower them with the tools they need to succeed. Additionally, I hope to mentor future STEM students, sharing my experiences and encouraging more individuals-especially women-to pursue careers in analytical fields. Education is more than just a degree; it is a gateway to opportunity, service, and transformation. My journey has been shaped by resilience, ambition, and a desire to help others. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving my dreams-not just for myself, but for the countless individuals and businesses I hope to serve.

Growing up, I always felt drawn to numbers, patterns, and problem-solving. I loved the logic behind mathematics and the way calculations could bring order to even the most chaotic situations. However, my journey toward a STEM career wasn't just shaped by a love of numbers- it was forged through personal experiences that taught me the value of resilience, ambition, and the impact of technology in transforming lives. Raised by a single mother who tirelessly worked three jobs to support us, I understood early on the importance of hard work and perseverance. Her sacrifices inspired me to build a future where I could not only achieve success but also help others through my skills and knowledge. This drive led me to pursue higher education, moving from Wisconsin to Tennessee to carve out a career in accounting and data analysis. It was a decision that opened doors to new opportunities and strengthened my passion for STEM. Initially, I enrolled in an online Computer Information Systems and Technology program at DeVry University, believing technology was the right path for me. However, as I progressed, I found myself captivated by the intersection of data and finance. I realized that accounting combined my love for numbers with analytical thinking that STEM disciplines demand. Eager to explore this field further, I made the decision to change my major to accounting, confident that it was the best fit for my aspirations. One of the most defining moments in my STEM journey came when I had the chance to participate in the Women + Tech Scholarship Program and became a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. These experiences introduced me to influential mentors who shared stories of breaking barriers in STEM fields, reinforcing my belief that leadership and knowledge go hand in hand. Learning about the challenges women face in STEM motivated me to work even harder, determined to be part of a generation that drives changed and innovation in male-dominated industries. Beyond coursework, working full-time while studying has provided invaluable lessons in discipline and time management. Balancing responsibilities has strengthened my ability to adapt, solve problems efficiently, remain focused on my long-term goals. I plan to graduate in 2028 with a 4.0 GPA, an achievement that symbolizes my dedication to academic excellence and continuous learning. Scholarship support would significantly ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to explore deeper learning opportunities. As a first-generation college student, every resource I receive empowers me to make a meaningful impact- whether it's using my analytical skills to optimize business strategies or mentoring future STEM students who, like me, seek guidance and inspiration. My journey in STEM is more than just a career path; it's testament to my perseverance, my passion for learning, and my commitment to making a difference. As I continue to grow, I hope to use my knowledge to advance that field of accounting and data analysis, proving that STEM careers are not just about innovation-they're about empowering individuals to create lasting change.

Technology has shaped the modern world in incredible ways, but no invention has transformed communication and global connectivity quite like the computer. This device isn't just a tool; it's a gateway- one that has allowed people to bridge distances, share ideas, and collaborate across cultures. For me, the computer is more than circuits and software- it represents possibility. It enables me to engage with individuals across the world, exchanging knowledge and perspectives in ways that would have been unimaginable just decades ago. Whether through education, problem-solving, or simply forging friendships, computers empower us to connect in ways that transcend borders. But beyond connection, computers are also a driving force behind innovation. From medical advancements to space exploration, they have paved a way for discoveries that improve lives. As technology continues to evolve, computers remain at the heart of progress, reminding us that knowledge and collaboration are some of the greatest tools we have to shape the future. As I pursue my studies in STEM, I aspire to contribute something truly meaningful to the world. While I may not have a defined career path just yet, I know my strengths: I excel in mathematics, and I am deeply committed to spreading positivity and strength. Math is often seen as rigid, but I see it as a universal language-one that can be used to build solutions, uncover patterns, and create pathways toward progress. Whether through engineering, data science, or another mathematical field, I hope to apply my skills in ways that support ethical decision-making, create equitable opportunities, foster a sense of community rather than competition. Beyond numbers and algorithms, I am passionate about bringing optimism into spaces that are often overshadowed by greed or negativity. STEM is more than formulas-its about the impact of innovations on people's lives. I aim to be a force for progress, ensuring that the tools and techniques I engage with are used to uplift rather than divide. I believe that even the smallest contributions can create a ripple effects of change. Whether i help to design systems that improve efficiency, develop models that make information more accessible, or simply encourage others to pursue STEM, I want my journey to serve as a reminder that knowledge is a powerful force when driven by integrity and compassion. Through my academic journey and future career, I hope to harness technology and mathematics as instruments for good=building not only systems but also communities strengthened by knowledge, compassion, and the belief that progress is meant to serve everyone.

My name is Whitney Henning and I am a 46 year old single female looking for a purpose in life. Growing up, my mother and I moved from Wisconsin to Georgia when I was 5 and then back to Wisconsin when I was 16. Coming from a divorced family, I wasn't brought up thinking about wanting to attend college, never thought I could afford the tuition. My mother raised me alone, she worked 3 jobs so we had a roof over our heads. As I got older, I saw how hard she worked to raise me and this showed me how to have a great work ethic. I spent my earlier years working at various jobs, which only paid the bills. Since I never settled down to have a family of my own, I have spent many days/nights asking myself "what's my purpose in life?". That question had my brain travelling along a dark path, I started to feel lost and depressed. I understood these feelings and knew that something was missing from my life. In January of 2024, I decided this was my year to change for a more beautiful positive life. At this time a few more questions came into mind, "can an older person like me still attend college?", "can I get financial aid?". As I began to research the answers to these simple questions, I found that, yes, I could go to college and I would receive some financial help. Next step I took was to find the right online college for what I had interests in learning. Once I read about DeVry University and what they offer, I knew this was the right path to take. So, immediately I picked up the phone and spoke to a knowledgeable Student Advisor. I can't express enough how nervous and elated I was, tears of joy and fear rushed through body. I chose to study Computer Science, to keep up with today's Technology. Learning about this industry will secure my future career in this new world. Since March of 2024, I have become more determined and confident every day. I feel being an older student, this was the right time for me to attend college. I would tell anyone, if they asked, to wait until they are mentally ready to start college. After decades of feeling unworthy and lost, I have finally found my purpose in life. I am determined and strong willed to succeed.