Volunteering as the president of She.Codes has been a life-changing experience that has not only impacted my mindset but also transformed the lives of women in technology. Through this invaluable opportunity, I have witnessed the profound influence of volunteering, and it has ignited a passion within me to empower women in tech. However, the financial challenges I currently face necessitate the support of this scholarship to continue my educational journey and make a lasting impact in the field. Volunteering has had a significant impact on my mindset, fostering a sense of purpose and igniting a deep commitment to empowering women in technology. Working as the president of She.Codes has allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative effects of creating an inclusive environment for aspiring women technologists. Collaborating with professionals from esteemed companies and organizing workshops has reinforced my belief in the importance of breaking down gender barriers and providing equal opportunities for women in the tech industry. The experience of volunteering has broadened my perspective, emphasizing the value of diversity and the power of collaboration. It has made me more empathetic and determined to create an environment where women feel supported, empowered, and encouraged to pursue their passions in technology. Volunteering has opened my eyes to the untapped potential that lies within women and the transformative impact they can have on shaping the future of the tech industry. Financially, this scholarship is essential for me to continue my educational journey and make a lasting impact in the field of technology. While my parents have always supported my education to the best of their abilities, the financial strain caused by the pandemic has made it increasingly challenging for them to provide the necessary resources. As a result, I have taken on a part-time job to support myself financially and ease the burden on my parents. However, this balancing act between work and academics has limited my ability to fully immerse myself in volunteer activities that empower women in tech. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate the financial pressures I face, enabling me to dedicate more time and energy to volunteering and pursuing my goals in technology. It would provide me with the opportunity to fully immerse myself in creating impactful initiatives, organizing workshops, and advocating for women in tech. By relieving the financial burden, this scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies, engage in networking opportunities, and contribute to She.Codes in a more meaningful and impactful manner. Furthermore, the financial support provided by this scholarship would provide my parents with much-needed relief. As hard-working individuals, they have always prioritized my education, but the current economic situation has placed an additional strain on our family finances. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my educational pursuits but also allow my parents to redirect their resources and support my sister, who is currently pursuing her education in medical school. In conclusion, volunteering with She.Codes has transformed my mindset and ignited a passion for empowering women in technology. The financial challenges I face necessitate the support of this scholarship to continue my educational journey and make a lasting impact in the field. By alleviating the financial burden, this scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to fully dedicate myself to volunteering and advocating for women in tech. It would also provide relief to my hard-working parents and allow them to support my sister's education. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can continue nurturing growth, breaking down barriers, and empowering women in the dynamic field of technology.

Throughout my journey in technology, there is one project that stands out as a true testament to my passion and the profound impact that working in this field can have. It was a project focused on developing a website called "Kare," aimed at enhancing the quality of life and independence of elderly individuals. This endeavor exemplified the transformative power of technology and fueled my inspiration to create meaningful solutions that improve people's lives. The motivation behind the project stemmed from observing the challenges faced by older adults in our society. I was deeply moved by their struggle with social isolation, forgetfulness, and a lack of accessible resources. Driven by my desire to make a difference, I assembled a team and embarked on this ambitious undertaking. We designed and developed Kare as a user-friendly website that offered a range of functionalities tailored to the needs of the elderly. Our platform allowed them to make phone calls, set reminders, and discover nearby activities. Leveraging my skills in web development, I utilized technologies such as Qoom, HTML, and CSS to create an intuitive and accessible interface. We conducted extensive user testing and incorporated feedback from elderly individuals to ensure the website met their specific requirements. Witnessing the positive impact of Kare on the lives of the elderly was immensely gratifying. The project successfully reduced average call times by 45% and improved average response times by 25%. It became a valuable tool for fostering social connections, providing mental stimulation, and enhancing the overall well-being of this vulnerable population. One of the aspects that particularly inspires me is the human-centered approach to technology. Through my work, I have come to understand that technology is not an end in itself but a means to serve people and improve their lives. This perspective guides my every endeavor, as I strive to create inclusive and accessible solutions that cater to diverse user needs. Working in technology also drives me to constantly learn and adapt. The field is ever-evolving, presenting new challenges and opportunities. I am inspired by the need to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, continuously updating my skills and knowledge. This constant pursuit of growth and learning ignites my passion and fuels my motivation to push boundaries and explore innovative solutions. Moreover, the collaborative nature of working in technology is immensely inspiring. Technology thrives on teamwork, where individuals from various backgrounds come together to solve complex problems. Through collaborative projects and experiences, I have witnessed firsthand the power of collective intelligence and the magic that happens when diverse perspectives converge. This inspires me to foster a culture of collaboration, to actively seek out and value different viewpoints, and to create inclusive environments where everyone's contributions are valued. In conclusion, my passion project, Kare, was a transformative experience that showcased the profound impact of working in technology. It reinforced my belief in the power of technology to improve lives and inspired me to pursue a career focused on creating meaningful solutions. The human-centered approach, the constant need for learning and adaptation, and the collaborative nature of the field are all aspects that continue to inspire me on this incredible journey. As I continue to work in technology, I am driven by the desire to make a positive difference and leverage the potential of technology to create a more inclusive, connected, and empowered world.

1. My journey toward pursuing a computer science degree was not an instant infatuation but a gradual love that developed over time. It began with a small coding project in high school, but it wasn't until my freshman year of college that I fully realized the potential of computer science. Initially intimidated by the required skills for internships, I questioned my ability to thrive in this field. However, my determination led me to secure opportunities at Microsoft and LA-Tech's IT academy, where I delved into cloud computing and cybersecurity. These experiences ignited my passion for technology, leading me to further exploration in computational and synthetic biology through the Caltech Connection program and human-computer interaction and visualization in the Google Computer Science Research Mentorship Program. 2. My dream job is to become a software engineer or a technical product manager. Inspired by my childhood immersed in science fiction books and fueled by a desire to turn dreams into reality, I realized that technology could solve complex problems with limited resources. To prepare for this career path, I have taken courses ranging from introductory computer science to data structures. Additionally, I had the privilege of interning at the California Institute of Technology, where I developed a Python package to assist in gene expression analysis. These experiences have solidified my commitment to leveraging technology to create innovative solutions and turn imagination into tangible outcomes. 3. I believe I am the ideal candidate for this scholarship due to my unwavering determination, resilience, and commitment to academic and personal growth. Balancing a rigorous academic schedule with part-time work and leadership roles, such as being the president of She.Codes and a board member of the Data Science club, has honed my time management and multitasking abilities. These experiences have also provided me with firsthand knowledge of the gender gap that exists in STEM, particularly in Computer Science and Engineering. To address this disparity, I have actively organized events, workshops, and initiatives that empower and support women in technology. Maintaining a position on the dean's list while working 20 hours per week showcases my dedication and ability to excel in challenging environments. Moreover, the resilience I demonstrated during a challenging semester, where I received a temporary setback in Calculus 2 but ultimately turned it around to achieve an A, reflects my perseverance and determination to succeed despite obstacles. In conclusion, my passion for computer science stems from my desire to transform dreams into reality through technology. My journey, filled with diverse experiences, internships, and leadership roles, has shaped me into a candidate who possesses both technical skills and the ability to make a positive impact in the field. With an unwavering commitment to personal and academic growth, I am ready to embrace the challenges of upper-division courses and pursue my dream of becoming a software engineer or technical product manager. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship, which aligns perfectly with my aspirations and will further support my journey in computer science.

As I reflect on the life and journey of Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien, I am inspired by her remarkable determination, intellectual boldness, and unwavering bravery. Her story resonates deeply with me as I traveled alone from Thailand to pursue a degree in Computer Science in the United States. Maggie's legacy of resilience and her passion for education have left an indelible mark on my own aspirations and sense of purpose. Moving to a foreign land, just as Maggie did when she arrived in the U.S., is a challenge that demands courage and adaptability. I understand the complexities of starting anew in an unfamiliar environment, with no support system in place. Like Maggie, I faced this daunting task head-on, propelled by my determination to pursue higher education and broaden my horizons. I am intimately familiar with the feelings of uncertainty and the need to find my place within a new academic and cultural landscape. Moreover, Maggie's fearlessness in the face of physical challenges resonates deeply with me. I, too, have sought to embrace physical endeavors that push my boundaries. From climbing mountains and diving into new experiences to teaching skiing and exploring the world on two wheels, I have discovered the transformative power of stepping outside of my comfort zone. Just as Maggie approached life fearlessly, I have cultivated a similar spirit of adventure, driven by a desire to learn and grow from every encounter and endeavor. Beyond physical pursuits, Maggie's intellectual boldness and her commitment to becoming an expert in her chosen field inspire me greatly. Like her, I am fueled by a deep thirst for knowledge and an unwavering passion for Computer Science. I am resolute in my dedication to continuously enhance my understanding and expertise, just as Maggie demonstrated throughout her career. I strive to approach every academic challenge as an opportunity for growth, and I relish engaging in thought-provoking debates that broaden my perspective and refine my critical thinking skills. The scholarship established in Maggie's memory not only acknowledges her exceptional life but also honors her legacy by supporting female students who, like me, have moved to the U.S. for their education. It is an incredible privilege to be considered for this opportunity, which aligns perfectly with my aspirations and journey. As a female student pursuing STEM, I wholeheartedly embrace the values and principles that guided Maggie's life. Through this scholarship, I seek to carry forward Maggie's spirit of determination, fearlessness, and intellectual curiosity. I aim to become a trailblazer in my own right, making significant contributions to the field of Computer Science and inspiring others to embrace challenges and pursue excellence. In conclusion, Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien's remarkable story resonates deeply with my own journey as an international student. Her unwavering determination, intellectual boldness, and fearlessness in the face of challenges have left an indelible mark on my own aspirations and character. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, which not only honors Maggie's extraordinary life but also provides support and empowerment to female students pursuing their dreams. If chosen, I will carry Maggie's legacy forward, striving to emulate her spirit as I navigate my path in Computer Science and make a positive impact on the world.