The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges that required innovation and creativity to navigate. As I transitioned to Boise, ID, and became involved with my church's youth group, I found myself drawn to the world of technology and problem-solving. Volunteering in various roles, from nursery help to managing technology needs, I began to cultivate a hacker spirit that mirrored the ethos of Kyle Lam, whose passion for technology and creative problem-solving continues to inspire me. During my sophomore year of high school, as the pandemic heightened feelings of isolation, I realized that my skills could make a difference in my community. Our church struggled to maintain its connection with congregants, leading to a crucial opportunity for me to step up. Recognizing that many in our community were feeling disconnected, I volunteered to help livestream our church services. This was not just about broadcasting; it was about creating an engaging and inclusive environment for our congregation. At the time, I was acutely aware of the technical hurdles we faced. Our church had never livestreamed services before, and we lacked the equipment and expertise to do so effectively. Channeling my inner tinkerer, I researched the necessary technology and pieced together a plan. I gathered equipment, learned about streaming software, and developed a workflow that would allow us to broadcast services seamlessly. Each week, I tinkered with the setup, adjusting sound levels, optimizing video quality, and even experimenting with different camera angles to create a more dynamic experience for viewers. My efforts were not just about the technical aspects; I aimed to infuse energy and enthusiasm into our services. I wanted to delight our congregation by making them feel seen and connected, even from a distance. I incorporated interactive elements, encouraging viewers to submit prayer requests via social media, which I would read during the service. This small change made a significant impact, transforming our virtual gatherings into a more interactive community experience. Witnessing the gratitude of congregants who expressed how the livestreams brought them hope during such uncertain times fueled my passion even further. I realized that my work not only showcased my technical skills but also embodied the spirit of curiosity and experimentation that Kyle Lam exemplified. Like Kyle, I found joy in inventing new ways to solve problems and pushing the boundaries of what was possible. Inspired by my church experience, I took on additional challenges, becoming a teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course. In this role, I aimed to foster a supportive environment for all students, particularly young women who might feel intimidated in a predominantly male field. I shared my own experiences of overcoming challenges, encouraging them to embrace their curiosity and explore the world of technology. Additionally, I volunteered at a local middle school, teaching coding lessons to seventh and eighth graders. This experience further highlighted the importance of generosity and mentorship. I created an encouraging atmosphere, celebrating their successes and fostering a sense of belonging. Seeing these young students gain confidence reminded me of Kyle's spirit—delighting others through knowledge and support. As I prepare to continue my education in computer science at Northeastern University, I carry with me the lessons learned from these experiences. I remain committed to a path of curiosity, creativity, and community, echoing the values that defined Kyle Lam's legacy. Receiving this scholarship would not only honor Kyle's memory but also empower me to continue my journey of exploration and innovation in technology, always seeking to delight and uplift those around me.

The COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of countless individuals, including myself. As I transitioned to Boise, ID, and became involved with my church's youth group, I faced personal adversity that shaped my aspirations and resolve. I volunteered in various capacities—helping in the nursery, managing technology needs, and participating in community service projects. However, as the pandemic progressed into my sophomore year of high school, I confronted a new challenge: adapting to a world that felt increasingly disconnected. In a largely unvaccinated state, our church struggled to maintain its sense of community. This situation propelled me into action. I recognized that my skills in technology and stage management could help bridge the gap during a time of isolation. With determination, I volunteered to help livestream our church services. This role came with challenges, as I navigated the technical aspects of broadcasting while feeling the weight of responsibility on my shoulders. Our community relied on these services for connection and hope. In those early weeks of livestreaming, I faced technical hurdles and the emotional toll of the pandemic. Many congregants expressed struggles with mental health and isolation, compelling me to provide support. I learned what it meant to be brave. Embracing discomfort, I knew my efforts could bring light into the lives of others. Witnessing the gratitude of congregants who shared how the services made a difference solidified my resolve to continue this work. Recognizing the importance of supporting others inspired me to take on additional challenges. I became a teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course, working to create an inclusive environment for all students, particularly young women. I understood the challenges female students can face in a male-dominated field and aimed to empower them to pursue their interests in technology. In this role, I encountered students who struggled with self-doubt and anxiety when coding. I prioritized encouraging them, sharing my experiences and reminding them that setbacks are a natural part of learning. One student, overwhelmed with a coding project, was ready to give up. I sat down with her, offering support and guidance. Together, we broke down the problem into manageable steps, and she eventually gained the confidence to complete her project successfully. It was moments like these that reinforced my commitment to uplifting others. Additionally, I volunteered at a local middle school, teaching coding lessons to seventh and eighth graders. This experience further highlighted the importance of resilience and bravery in the face of challenges. Many students came from diverse backgrounds and faced obstacles related to family circumstances or self-esteem. I created an encouraging atmosphere, celebrating their successes and fostering a sense of belonging. Seeing these young students gain confidence reinforced my commitment to uplifting others. As I prepare to continue my education at Northeastern University, I carry the lessons I’ve learned through adversity with me. I remain focused on my career aspirations in computer science, determined to create technology that empowers others. I understand my journey will not always be easy, but I am committed to facing challenges with bravery and resilience, just as Audra Dominguez did. Receiving this scholarship would honor Audra's legacy and provide invaluable support as I pursue my goals. I am dedicated to using my education to positively impact the lives of others, inspired by the strength and determination that Audra exemplified. Together, we can navigate obstacles and uplift those around us, embodying the spirit of bravery and resilience that defines true success.

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly changed how we connect and support one another, and it was during this time that I discovered the power of kindness and community. When I moved to Boise, ID, I became actively involved with my church's youth group, participating in various volunteer activities, including nursery work, garden cleanup, and technology support. These experiences opened my eyes to the importance of service and the impact we can have on those around us. However, it was as the pandemic progressed into my sophomore year of high school that I truly felt a growing urge to help my community in any way I could. As a widely unvaccinated state faced unprecedented challenges, our church found itself in a position where it needed to adapt quickly to continue serving its members. With the doors to the church closing, it became clear that traditional means of gathering and worshiping could no longer be maintained. This situation compelled me to take action and think creatively about how we could stay connected. I recognized that my skills in stage management and technology could be beneficial during this critical time, and I was determined to help. I took the initiative to help livestream our church services, ensuring that our community remained connected despite the isolation we all felt. The first few weeks were challenging as we navigated technical hurdles and worked to establish a routine. However, through collaboration with other volunteers and the unwavering support of our church leaders, we managed to create a space where people could come together, even virtually. The simple act of sharing our services online became a way to uplift others and demonstrate that small acts of kindness could have a significant impact. As the weeks went by, I began to hear stories from church members about how the livestream services made a difference in their lives. For many, these moments provided a sense of normalcy during an uncertain time. I remember one elderly member who expressed her gratitude, sharing how she had felt isolated and alone since the pandemic began. With tears in her eyes, she told me that being able to watch the services from home reminded her that she was still a part of our community. Witnessing the gratitude of church members and knowing I contributed to their spiritual well-being filled me with a sense of purpose and reinforced my belief in the power of community support. This commitment to kindness has continued to shape my journey. After my experience with the church, I actively sought opportunities to extend compassion beyond that setting. Most recently, I took on the role of teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course. In this capacity, I have worked to create an inclusive environment where all students feel empowered to learn. I particularly focus on encouraging young women to embrace technology, hoping to inspire them as I wished someone had inspired me at their age. Teaching has proven to be incredibly rewarding. I have seen firsthand how a little encouragement can transform a student's confidence. One student, who initially struggled with coding, began to flourish after we worked together on a project. She eventually took on a leadership role in our group, and I was thrilled to see her shine. Moments like these remind me of the importance of fostering an environment of support and encouragement, and they reinforce my commitment to uplifting others. Additionally, I have volunteered at a local middle school, teaching coding lessons to seventh and eighth graders. This experience has been incredibly fulfilling as I watch students grow in confidence and capability. Many of these young students come from diverse backgrounds, and I strive to create a welcoming space for everyone. I remember a young girl who was initially hesitant to participate in our coding lessons. After a few weeks of encouragement and support, she not only became one of the most engaged students in the class but also started helping her classmates. Seeing her transform from a shy participant to a confident leader has been one of the highlights of my volunteer work. My experiences have taught me that true kindness manifests in various forms—whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being present for someone in need. I strive to embody the values of compassion and generosity in all that I do, and I continuously look for ways to give back to my community. Whether it’s through organizing tech workshops or volunteering at local events, I am committed to making a positive impact wherever I can. As I continue my studies at Northeastern University, I remain focused on my passion for computer science. I am excited to further develop my skills while remaining committed to uplifting others. I have also taken part in community service initiatives on campus, working alongside fellow students to promote inclusivity and support within our diverse student body. Each of these experiences has further cemented my belief that kindness is not only an act but a way of life. I believe that the legacy of Jennifer and Rob Tower lives on through acts of kindness, love, and generosity. Receiving this scholarship would not only honor their memory but also inspire me to continue making a positive impact on the lives of others. It would provide invaluable support as I pursue my dreams and work towards empowering other women, demonstrating that together, we can all succeed. In a world that can often feel divided, I am committed to embodying the spirit of the Towers by making the world a better place, one act of goodness at a time.

I have always believed in the power of women supporting women, which has shaped my journey both personally and professionally. My commitment to accountability was solidified during the COVID-19 pandemic when I volunteered with my church's technology team in Boise, ID. As the pandemic unfolded, it became clear that our community needed to adapt. I recognized the importance of keeping our church connected and took the initiative to help livestream services. My skills in stage management and computer science became crucial, allowing us to support our community during a time of isolation. This experience not only highlighted my responsibility to my community but also reinforced the significance of lifting others as we rise. Since then, I have made it a priority to hold myself accountable while pursuing my academic goals in computer science. I took on the role of teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course, where I guided students in mastering complex concepts and encouraged young women to pursue their passion for technology. I also taught coding lessons to middle school girls, hoping to inspire them as I wished someone had inspired me at their age. By committing to these initiatives, I aimed to uplift the next generation of women in STEM and reinforce the idea that success is a collective effort. In my academic journey, I have set personal challenges to push myself further. I developed an iPhone app that stores user data and helps users create custom resumes, which won an award at the Tyler Technologies Maine App Challenge. This project taught me valuable skills in coding and project management, and it reminded me that success isn’t just about personal achievements; it’s about using my skills to empower others. As a sophomore at Northeastern University majoring in computer science, I continue to prioritize accountability. Balancing my coursework, working as a tech support assistant at Northeastern’s IT hub, and interning at a software company has been demanding, yet rewarding. Being the only woman in my software development department has encouraged me to persevere and set an example for my peers. I actively reflect on how I can foster an environment that promotes the advancement of women, whether by supporting my female colleagues or mentoring younger girls interested in technology. I am deeply passionate about the collective success of women and firmly believe that accountability is crucial in achieving that goal. Through my experiences, I have learned to hold myself to high standards while uplifting those around me. The Harvest Goal Collective Scholarship would provide invaluable support as I continue to pursue my dreams and work towards empowering other women, demonstrating that together, we can all succeed.

The COVID-19 Pandemic was unique in that it impacted not a minute few, but touched lives on a global scale. After moving to Boise, ID, I joined my church's youth group, volunteering in the nursery, technology center, stage management, garden cleanup, and other service projects. As the pandemic continued into my sophomore year, I grew restless and sought ways to help my community. With our state largely unvaccinated, the church closed its doors. When we decided to livestream services, my stage management and technology skills became crucial, and I volunteered weekly to support this effort. Initially, this seemed like such a simple act, but I soon realized the monumental value of connecting people. I was able to bring some form of hope and equity to individuals from vastly different demographics. My work helped my community maintain an important part of their lives, even during a global pandemic. This experience, while rewarding, also exposed me to the immense pressure of balancing service work, academics, and my personal life, and I became more aware of the importance of prioritizing mental health. In college, I continue to reflect on the lessons learned during this time. My involvement in computer science, whether working for Northeastern’s IT department, interning at a software company, or teaching younger students coding, has been both exhilarating and demanding. The pace of life as a computer science major can sometimes feel overwhelming. On top of rigorous coursework and technical problem-solving, I also face unique challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field. I am often the only female in my software department, which initially made me feel out of place. This isolation, coupled with societal expectations, can impact my mental health, leading to anxiety and self-doubt. Recognizing the importance of mental wellness, I have made it a priority to actively manage my mental health as I balance school, work, and my passion for technology. I have found ways to create space for self-care in my busy schedule, whether through regular exercise, connecting with supportive friends, or seeking quiet moments for reflection. I also find mental relief by teaching younger students. During coding lessons, I see how important it is for them—especially young girls—to see someone who looks like them in a tech role. This not only helps me ground myself but also affirms my belief in the impact I can have as a role model. Additionally, I manage my academic workload by staying organized and giving myself the grace to rest when needed. I ensure that my weekends include time for activities that nourish my well-being, like walks in nature or reading a book. Through these efforts, I have developed resilience and found ways to balance the heavy academic and professional expectations with a healthy mind. I am deeply passionate about computer science and grateful for the opportunities it has provided me. However, I am equally committed to maintaining mental wellness as I continue this journey. I believe prioritizing mental health is crucial not just for academic success but also for sustaining long-term happiness and fulfillment. This is why I am applying for the Mental Health Scholarship for Women. As someone who actively acknowledges the importance of mental health, this scholarship would ease the financial stress of tuition and living costs, further allowing me to focus on both my academic and personal growth. I am confident that with continued support, I can contribute to the tech field while maintaining a strong sense of well-being.

The concept of legacy is often shaped by those who have come before us, leaving behind values, skills, or knowledge that influence the generations that follow. To me, legacy is about continuity—using the foundations laid by others to create something even greater while honoring their contributions. Growing up, I’ve seen the importance of giving back to the community, a principle my family has always valued, which is something I want to carry forward in my own life through technology and education. My upbringing significantly shaped who I am today, particularly through my experiences in my church community. When I moved to Boise, ID, I became actively involved in my church’s youth group, serving in various capacities such as volunteering in the nursery, managing technology, and overseeing stage management. These roles may have seemed small initially, but they ultimately instilled in me a sense of responsibility to serve others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the church could no longer safely hold in-person services, I saw an opportunity to help. Using my computer science and technology skills, I helped transition our services online, providing continuity for the congregation. This experience not only allowed me to give back to my community but also highlighted the power of technology to connect and uplift others, even during a global crisis. This upbringing and these experiences have set me on my current path of studying computer science. I’ve decided that this field is where I want to leave my own legacy. By sharing my skills and knowledge with others, especially underrepresented groups in STEM, I aim to break the cycle of limited visibility for women and minorities in tech fields. As a teaching assistant for my high school’s AP Computer Science course and a mentor at my local middle school, I made it a point to inspire younger students, especially girls, to see themselves in STEM careers. It’s vital for young people to see role models who look like them in fields that are traditionally underrepresented. Looking ahead, I plan to continue using technology as a tool to bring positive change, just as I did during the pandemic. I’m currently working for Northeastern University’s IT department and further developing my skills in computer science, as well as working part time as an intern for a software company. I want to create technology solutions that are not only innovative but also accessible and beneficial to communities that might not have had such opportunities in the past. In continuing this legacy of service and innovation, I honor the people who have helped shape me, while paving the way for future generations to break new ground in the world of STEM. The Dr. Samuel Attoh Legacy Scholarship would not only help me advance in my academic journey but also allow me to carry forward a mission of impact and service.

I learned to use calculus before I learned to do calculus. I started coding when I was 14. I took a coding principles course and fell in love with the way I could make computers do anything I wanted. I loved how the algorithms I wrote could be used repeatedly to solve complex equations in just a few typed lines. The allure of manipulating computers to execute my commands fascinated me. Crafting algorithms that could efficiently solve complex equations or create interactive games became addictive. The beauty of the rainbow-colored code in my IDE and the prospect of mastering one language to unlock countless others fueled my passion. My coding journey was not just about finding solutions; it was about finding the best solutions—ones that were not only effective but also fast and efficient. Each coding challenge became a game for me, a quest to explore different approaches and enhance the precision and conciseness of my logical statements. The thrill of optimizing a function for minimal complexity was unmatched. I remember sitting in my calculus class learning about logarithms for the first time and coming to the realization that I’d seen this math before. The math I was learning in my calculus classes was the same logic I’d used for years in my programming. After this realization, I fell in love with calculus nearly as much as I had with programming. The integration of math and programming became more intertwined as I continued on in my math career. While sitting in my Discrete Structures Math class in university, I learned that the boolean expressions I'd been writing in my loops and if statements could be expressed mathematically with precision. I could perform operations to make these statements more concise and more efficient. Math unlocked a whole new level of programming. As more math knowledge and tools became available to me, I was able to tear down limitations in my programming that I didn’t even know existed. I learned to use calculus before I learned to do calculus. This helped me gain a greater appreciation for the art of math. Memorizing derivatives and theorems has real impact once we apply them to the disciplines that excite us. For me, calculus and advanced math were never boring, they represented new skills and ways of thinking that could help me improve my computing skills and take my programming to the next level.

I learned to use calculus before I learned to do calculus. I started coding when I was 14. I took a coding principles course and fell in love with the way I could make computers do anything I wanted. I loved how the algorithms I wrote could be used repeatedly to solve complex equations in just a few typed lines. The allure of manipulating computers to execute my commands fascinated me. Crafting algorithms that could efficiently solve complex equations or create interactive games became addictive. The beauty of the rainbow-colored code in my IDE and the prospect of mastering one language to unlock countless others fueled my passion. My coding journey was not just about finding solutions; it was about finding the best solutions—ones that were not only effective but also fast and efficient. Each coding challenge became a game for me, a quest to explore different approaches and enhance the precision and conciseness of my logical statements. The thrill of optimizing a function for minimal complexity was unmatched. I remember sitting in my calculus class learning about logarithms for the first time and coming to the realization that I’d seen this math before. The math I was learning in my calculus classes was the same logic I’d used for years in my programming. After this realization, I fell in love with calculus nearly as much as I had with programming. The integration of math and programming became more intertwined as I continued on in my math career. While sitting in my Discrete Structures Math class in university, I learned that the boolean expressions I'd been writing in my loops and if statements could be expressed mathematically with precision. I could perform operations to make these statements more concise and more efficient. Math unlocked a whole new level of programming. Calculus is not only important in the STEM field, it is absolutely imperative. STEM disciplines can only advance so far without the integration of calculus. As more math knowledge and tools became available to me, I was able to tear down limitations in my programming that I didn’t even know existed. I learned to use calculus before I learned to do calculus. This helped me gain a greater appreciation for the art of math. Without applying calculus to our passions, it becomes mundane. Memorizing derivatives and theorems has real impact once we apply the math we learn to the disciplines that excite us. For me, calculus and advanced math were never boring, they represented new skills and ways of thinking that could help me improve my computing skills and take my programming to the next level.

The COVID-19 Pandemic was unique in that it impacted not only a minute few, but touched lives on a global scale. When I moved to Boise, ID, I became affiliated with my church's youth group, volunteering in the nursery, the technology center, stage management, garden cleanup, and other service projects. As the pandemic ebbed into my sophomore year of high school, I became restless and was compelled to find some way to help my community. Based in a widely unvaccinated state, it became clear that the church could no longer safely keep its doors open to the public. This is when I saw an opportunity to help. On the fly, the church team decided to livestream our church services to maintain some sort of continuity and support during this unprecedented time. It became clear that my stage management, computer science, and technology skills were an asset, so I volunteered my services every week. This seemed like such a simple act in the beginning until I realized the monumental value of connecting people. I was able to bring some form of hope and equity to a wide group of individuals from vastly different demographics. It was fulfilling in that I had the opportunity to use my skills on a large scale. My work helped my community continue to partake in an intimately important part of their everyday lives, even during a global pandemic. Today, I am committed to the vast opportunities available in computer science; I have decided it is the perfect direction for me in college and beyond. Since my experience volunteering in the technology center, I have continued to explore computer science and technology. Most recently I was the teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course. In this role, I was able to help other students with labs and difficult concepts. I was also able to spend time at my local middle school, teaching basic coding lessons to seventh and eighth graders. This past year I wrote, developed, and tested an iPhone app that stores user data and helps users create a custom resume. My application won an award at the Tyler Technologies Maine App Challenge. I am thrilled to be studying computer science this year at Northeastern University and I cannot wait to continue to hone my skills. I am grateful for the time I spent volunteering in my community during the pandemic as it led me to discover my passion for technology and computer science. It is so important for young people to see people who look like them in STEAM-related fields. Particularly during my time teaching coding classes to middle school students, I reflected on how impactful it would have been for me at age 12 to have another girl come in and talk about their passion for technology. In this moment I felt like a leader. I’m so thrilled to have computer science as a skill that I can teach others about. Too often in this field, I hear young people and other girls say “I could never do that ''. It's a goal of mine to help change this narrative by bringing coding to an audience that lacks exposure. I am excited to continue learning more about computer science and hopefully combine this with my love for teaching and sharing knowledge with others. The time I have spent in my community has inspired me to continue working hard and making a difference with the help of technology.

The COVID-19 Pandemic was unique in that it impacted not a minute few, but touched lives on a global scale. As the pandemic ebbed into my sophomore year of high school, I became restless and was compelled to find some way to help my community. Based in a widely unvaccinated state, it became clear that my church could no longer safely keep its doors open to the public. This is when I saw an opportunity to help. On the fly, the church decided to stream their services online to maintain continuity and support during this unprecedented time. It became clear that my computer science and technology skills were an asset, so I volunteered my services every week. This seemed like a simple act in the beginning until I realized the monumental value of connecting people. I was able to bring some form of hope and equity to a wide group of individuals from vastly different demographics. My work in the technology center helped my community continue to partake in an intimately important part of their everyday lives, even during a global pandemic. Today, I am committed to the vast opportunities available in computer science; I have decided it is the perfect direction for me in college and beyond. Since my experience volunteering in the technology center, I have continued to explore computer science and technology. Most recently I was the teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course. In this role, I was able to help other students with labs and difficult concepts. I was also able to spend time at my local middle school, teaching basic coding lessons to seventh and eighth graders. This past year I wrote, developed, and tested an iPhone app that stores user data and helps users create a custom resume. My application won an award at the Tyler Technologies Maine App Challenge. I am thrilled to be studying computer science this year at Northeastern University and I cannot wait to continue to hone my skills. I currently am working for Northeastern’s IT department at my school's walk-in tech help hub. I am grateful for the time I spent volunteering in my community as it led me to discover my passion for computer science. It is so important for young people to see people who look like them in STEM-related fields. Particularly during my time teaching coding classes to middle school students, I reflected on how impactful it would have been for me at age 12 to have another girl come in and talk about their passion for technology. When I came to university, I started a list with my friends as a joke titled “sexist computer science comments this semester” making light of the comments that were made to and about female computer science students. This list filled up, much quicker than I thought it would. We have not achieved gender equality, particularly in the computing field. I am tired of hearing “You don’t look like a computer science major”. I am the best candidate for this scholarship because I am passionate and excited about this field and the doors an advanced degree in computer science will open. I am passionate about programming and inclusivity within this field is something I am particularly invested in. I currently am a full-time student and also work to help afford my tuition. I would be extremely grateful to receive the Connie Konatsotis Scholarship as it would tremendously help ease the financial burden of my undergraduate degree on me and my entire family.

The COVID-19 Pandemic was unique in that it impacted not only a minute few, but touched lives on a global scale. When I moved to Boise, ID, I became affiliated with my church's youth group, volunteering in the nursery, the technology center, stage management, garden cleanup, and other service projects. As the pandemic ebbed into my sophomore year of high school, I became restless and was compelled to find some way to help my community. Based in a widely unvaccinated state, it became clear that the church could no longer safely keep its doors open to the public. This is when I saw an opportunity to help. On the fly, the church team decided to livestream our church services to maintain some sort of continuity and support during this unprecedented time. It became clear that my stage management, computer science, and technology skills were an asset, so I volunteered my services every week. This seemed like such a simple act in the beginning until I realized the monumental value of connecting people. I was able to bring some form of hope and equity to a wide group of individuals from vastly different demographics. It was fulfilling in that I had the opportunity to use my skills on a large scale. My work helped my community continue to partake in an intimately important part of their everyday lives, even during a global pandemic. Today, I am committed to the vast opportunities available in computer science; I have decided it is the perfect direction for me in college and beyond. Since my experience volunteering in the technology center, I have continued to explore computer science and technology. Most recently I was the teaching assistant for my high school's AP Computer Science course. In this role, I was able to help other students with labs and difficult concepts. I was also able to spend time at my local middle school, teaching basic coding lessons to seventh and eighth graders. This past year I wrote, developed, and tested an iPhone app that stores user data and helps users create a custom resume. My application won an award at the Tyler Technologies Maine App Challenge. I am thrilled to be studying computer science this year at Northeastern University and I cannot wait to continue to hone my skills. I am grateful for the time I spent volunteering in my community during the pandemic as it led me to discover my passion for technology and computer science. It is so important for young people to see people who look like them in STEAM-related fields. Particularly during my time teaching coding classes to middle school students, I reflected on how impactful it would have been for me at age 12 to have another girl come in and talk about their passion for technology. In this moment I felt like a leader. I’m so thrilled to have computer science as a skill that I can teach others about. Too often in this field, I hear young people and other girls say “I could never do that ''. It's a goal of mine to help change this narrative by bringing coding to an audience that lacks exposure. I am excited to continue learning more about computer science and hopefully combine this with my love for teaching and sharing knowledge with others. The time I have spent in my community has inspired me to continue working hard and making a difference with the help of technology.