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Irebami Olaniran

3,325

Bold Points

11x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

Bio

Most people view higher education as a "get away from home" ticket that opens the door to independence but, I see attending college as a means to learn new things, develop personally, dispel stereotypes, and give back to society. Growing up, I was never the smartest kid; instead, I was the youngster who had trouble understanding and keeping up with pace. Despite the challenges, growing up in a community with limited resources taught me the value of hard work and motivated me to strive for a better future. It also made me appreciate the little things in life and gave me a sense of gratitude. I desired a better life so in order to get it, I became committed to creating a great life for both myself and other's. I chose to put more emphasis on schooling. I improved in high school and persevered until the very end. I would request "extra credit assignments" and attend after-school tutoring sessions. I chose to major in computer science/engineering to create diversity and break stereotypes. I think that by earning a college degree, I will be able to give back to society by imparting my knowledge to society. I would also become the role model I never had growing up if I were to earn a degree. Being a black woman in STEM, I hope to serve as an example for young people who will never see diversity in the field. I intend to continue my education and achieve academic success by devoting my time and attention to both studying and problem-solving.

Education

Spokane Falls Community College

Associate's degree program
2022 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

Washington State University

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Computer Engineering

Desert Oasis High School

High School
2021 - Present

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Information Technology and Services

    • Dream career goals:

      Cyber Security Analyst or a Software Architect

    • Volunteer

      Valley Hospital
      2021 – 2021

    Sports

    Track & Field

    Junior Varsity
    2014 – 20151 year

    Awards

    • yes

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Valley Hospital — Office assistant and Guide
      2021 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Key Club — I was a member of Key club
      2018 – 2019

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Chris Jackson Computer Science Education Scholarship
    Most people view higher education as a "get away from home" ticket that opens the door to independence but, I see attending college as a means to learn new things, develop personally, dispel stereotypes, and give back to society. Growing up, I was never the smartest kid; instead, I was the youngster who had trouble understanding and keeping up with pace. I was raised in a poor community where just getting by each day was a struggle. Three square meals were a luxury. Despite the challenges, growing up in a community with limited resources taught me the value of hard work and motivated me to strive for a better future. It also made me appreciate the little things in life and gave me a sense of gratitude for what I have today. I desired a better life so in order to get it, I became committed to creating a great life for both myself and other's. In addition to wanting to assist the world, I also wanted to help myself. Even though I was having a terrible time, I chose to put more emphasis on schooling. I improved in high school and persevered until the very end. I would request "extra credit assignments" and attend numerous after-school tutoring sessions. I would also spend my leisure time learning online. These acts improved me and helped me succeed. I took a break after high school to work and support myself, and it was during this time that I realized I needed more from life. I've always had a fascination for computers and coding, so I chose to major in computer science/engineering. I set out on a two-day journey to Pullman to begin college in order to accomplish all of these objectives. I left WSU because of financial issues and transferred to Spokane Falls to complete my schooling at a lower cost. I think that by earning a college degree, I will be able to give back to society by imparting my knowledge to society. I would also become the role model I never had growing up if I were to earn a degree. Being a black woman in STEM, I hope to serve as an example for young people who will never see diversity in the field while also working in the cybersecurity field. I intend to continue my education and achieve academic success by devoting my time and attention to studying , problem-solving, and asking for assistance when I need it. I want to help out and share ideas with my classmates and teachers, and I also want to stick with things no matter how hard they may seem. I believe that by taking this approach, I will not only develop a deeper understanding of my courses but also gain valuable skills, which will serve me well in my future endeavors. Additionally, I am excited to see how my efforts will pay off and what new opportunities will arise as a result of my hard work.
    Chris Jackson Computer Science Education Scholarship
    According to NCWIT, women are twice as likely to quit their jobs in the high-tech industry. The study found that 56% of technical women drop out mid-career due to negative workplace experiences. Race is also an Issue In the field of IT. As a black woman who dreams to pursue a career in Information Technology, I am bound to face challenges that arise because of intersectionality. I can address these challenges by proving that I am competent in my field of career. The tech industry is filled with men of other races and I will make sure that that I am knowledgeable and proficient in every area of duty. If I have to dedicate my free time or extra hours to perfecting my proficiency, I will not mind doing that. There are tons of stereotypes that society feeds into when it comes to black women. The mentality that black women are often aggressive, passionless, angry, loud, uneducated, and unsuccessful is a frame of mind that almost all believe (including black men and women). I will like to prove said shallow-minded people wrong. I aspire to be a black woman who wakes up doing what she loves, I aspire to be a successful educated black woman who proves society wrong, I dream of being a black woman who makes the world a better place for the younger black generation. I am filled with the passion to attain this dream and prove to not just myself, but other women like me that "IT IS POSSIBLE”. I will not attain my dream just by dreaming so to accomplish my heart desires, I plan on going to a community college for two years. Graduating from high school with a 4.161 weighted GPA is a huge accomplishment for me but due to financial limitations, I will not be able to attend a state or high ranked University. After attending community college for two years, I plan on transferring to a four-year university where I'll attain my doctorate degree In Computer Engineering and Information Technology. I am a very organized person, and I already have my college years planned out. I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, and school on a scholarship. I plan on working fervently to attain my dreams of operating in the "Information Technology Sector" and hopefully, founding a charity in the future.
    Dr. Samuel Attoh Legacy Scholarship
    As a young teen, whenever I hear people talk about legacy, their definition of legacy always included them doing something which is appraised by society. I've always had a notion that opposes that of others when it comes to soo many things, one of which is legacy. To me, a legacy is an indisputable, timeless act that lives to have an impact on the life of others. According to NCWIT, women are twice as likely to quit their jobs in the high-tech industry. The study found that 56% of technical women drop out mid-career due to negative workplace experiences. Race is also an Issue In the field of IT. As a black woman who dreams to pursue a career in Information Technology, I am bound to face challenges that arise because of intersectionality. I can address these challenges by proving that I am competent in my field of career. The tech industry is filled with men of other races and I will make sure that that I am knowledgeable and proficient in every area of duty. If I have to dedicate my free time or extra hours to perfecting my proficiency, I will not mind doing that. There are tons of stereotypes that society feeds into when it comes to black women. The mentality that black women are often aggressive, passionless, angry, loud, uneducated, and unsuccessful is a frame of mind that almost all believe (including black men and women). I will like to prove said shallow-minded people wrong. I aspire to be a black woman who wakes up doing what she loves, I aspire to be a successful educated black woman who proves society wrong, I dream of being a black woman who makes the world a better place for the younger black generation. I am filled with the passion to attain this dream and prove to not just myself, but other women like me that "IT IS POSSIBLE”. I will not attain my dream just by dreaming so to accomplish my heart desires, I plan on going to a community college for two years. Graduating from high school with a 4.161 weighted GPA is a huge accomplishment for me but due to financial limitations, I will not be able to attend a state or high ranked University. After attending community college for two years, I plan on transferring to a four-year university where I'll attain my doctorate degree In Computer Engineering and Information Technology. I am a very organized person, and I already have my college years planned out. I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, and school on a scholarship. I plan on working fervently to attain my dreams of operating in the "Information Technology Sector" and hopefully, founding a charity in the future.
    Undiscovered Brilliance Scholarship for African-Americans
    One of my favourite things to do during my early childhood days was to fantasise about the future. I always spent my Free Time either hanging out with my brothers or imagining how my life will turn out. Growing up in Nigeria, I often saw mothers struggle to make ends meet: these parents struggled to feed their children, educate their kids e.t.c and I promised never to put myself in a situation like that (little did I know that if they had the opportunity, they would not be in a condition as such). During my early adolescent years, I comprehended that life indeed was not a bed of roses. With my parent’s business going bankrupt, struggling to eat three square meals, and being unable to school for a whole year(owing school fees). I planned my entire future. I hated that we were a liability to friends, families and the neighbourhood. My mother even travelled to Europe (for two years) to work as a cook in the Nigeria embassy to make ends meet. Some days, I wished God could come down from heaven and assure me that all will be okay. On other days, I wished that either of my parents could just win a lottery so that life could go back to normal. I planned my whole future out and promised never to give in. I know that I possess potentials, and I was determined to use my prospects fully to attain a better life. One of my goals in life is to be a motivation to others and help those in need. I also desire to live comfortably and in wealth. In the year 2017, my mother and I got the opportunity to visit the United States. As the situation turned out, my mom ended up going back (so as not to overstay her visit) while I stayed back with some family members. On my first day in High School, I was advised to focus on my education and that alone (if I want to gain admission to colleges). My main goal was to graduate high school in flying colours, so I spent most of my time studying, revising, watching educational youtube videos, Khan Academy and self-educating. I prioritised my education to the point where I didn’t care about my social life or making friends. Flash forward to my senior year, (the year of college applications and financial aid), I discovered that my hard work throughout high school might go to waste seeing that I am unable to receive government grants, therefore, unable to attend the college of my dream. My dream is to attain the highest degree in Information Technology. According to NCWIT, women are twice as likely to quit their jobs in the high-tech industry. The study found that 56% of technical women drop out mid-career due to negative workplace experiences. Race is also an Issue In the field of IT. As a black woman who dreams to pursue a career in Information Technology, I am bound to face challenges that arise because of intersectionality. I can address these challenges by proving that I am competent in my field of career. The tech industry is filled with men of other races and I will make sure that that I am knowledgeable and proficient in every area of duty. If I have to dedicate my free time or extra hours to perfecting my proficiency, I will not mind doing that. There are tons of stereotypes that society feeds into when it comes to black women. The mentality that black women are often aggressive, passionless, angry, loud, uneducated, and unsuccessful is a frame of mind that almost all believe (including black men and women). I will like to prove said shallow-minded people wrong. I aspire to be a black woman who wakes up doing what she loves, I aspire to be a successful educated black woman who proves society wrong, I dream of being a black woman who makes the world a better place for the younger black generation. I am filled with the passion to attain this dream and prove to not just myself, but other women like me that "IT IS POSSIBLE”. I will not attain my dream just by dreaming so to accomplish my heart desires, I plan on going to a community college for two years. Graduating from high school with a 4.161 weighted GPA is a huge accomplishment for me but due to financial limitations, I will not be able to attend a state or high ranked University. After attending community college for two years, I plan on transferring to a four-year university where I'll attain my doctorate degree In Computer Engineering and Information Technology. I am a very organized person, and I already have my college years planned out. I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, and school on a scholarship. I plan on working fervently to attain my dreams of working in the "Information Technology Sector" and hopefully, founding a charity in the future.
    Penny Collins Scholarship
    According to NCWIT, women are twice as likely to quit their jobs in the high-tech industry. The study found that 56% of technical women drop out mid-career due to negative workplace experiences. Race is also an Issue In the field of IT. As a black woman who dreams to pursue a career in Information Technology, I am bound to face challenges that arise because of intersectionality. I can address these challenges by proving that I am competent in my field of career. The tech industry is filled with men of other races and I will make sure that that I am knowledgeable and proficient in every area of duty. If I have to dedicate my free time or extra hours to perfecting my proficiency, I will not mind doing that. There are tons of stereotypes that society feeds into when it comes to black women. The mentality that black women are often aggressive, passionless, angry, loud, uneducated, and unsuccessful is a frame of mind that almost all believe (including black men and women). I will like to prove said shallow-minded people wrong. I aspire to be a black woman who wakes up doing what she loves, I aspire to be a successful educated black woman who proves society wrong, I dream of being a black woman who makes the world a better place for the younger black generation. I am filled with the passion to attain this dream and prove to not just myself, but other women like me that "IT IS POSSIBLE”. I will not attain my dream just by dreaming so to accomplish my heart desires, I plan on going to a community college for two years. Graduating from high school with a 4.161 weighted GPA is a huge accomplishment for me but due to financial limitations, I will not be able to attend a state or high ranked University. After attending community college for two years, I plan on transferring to a four-year university where I'll attain my doctorate degree In Computer Engineering and Information Technology. I am a very organized person, and I already have my college years planned out. I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, and school on a scholarship. I plan on working fervently to attain my dreams of operating in the "Information Technology Sector" and hopefully, founding a charity in the future.
    Brandon Zylstra Road Less Traveled Scholarship
    One of my favourite things to do during my early childhood days was to fantasise about the future. I always spent my Free Time either hanging out with my brothers or imagining how my life will turn out. Growing up in Nigeria, I often saw mothers struggle to make ends meet: these parents struggled to feed their children, educate their kids e.t.c and I promised never to put myself in a situation like that (little did I know that if they had the opportunity, they would not be in a condition as such). During my early adolescent years, I comprehended that life indeed was not a bed of roses. With my parent’s business going bankrupt, struggling to eat three square meals, and being unable to school for a whole year(owing school fees). I planned my entire future. I hated that we were a liability to friends, families and the neighbourhood. My mother even travelled to Europe (for two years) to work as a cook in the Nigeria embassy to make ends meet. Some days, I wished God could come down from heaven and assure me that all will be okay. On other days, I wished that either of my parents could just win a lottery so that life could go back to normal. I planned my whole future out and promised never to give in. I know that I possess potentials, and I was determined to use my prospects fully to attain a better life. One of my goals in life is to be a motivation to others and help those in need. I also desire to live comfortably and in wealth. In the year 2017, my mother and I got the opportunity to visit the United States. As the situation turned out, my mom ended up going back (so as not to overstay her visit) while I stayed back with some family members. On my first day in High School, I was advised to focus on my education and that alone (if I want to gain admission to colleges). My main goal was to graduate high school in flying colours, so I spent most of my time studying, revising, watching educational youtube videos, Khan Academy and self-educating. I prioritised my education to the point where I didn’t care about my social life or making friends. Flash forward to my senior year, (the year of college applications and financial aid), I discovered that my hard work throughout high school might go to waste seeing that I am unable to receive government grants, therefore, unable to attend the college of my dream. At this point in my life, I will be extremely grateful if given the opportunity to study at any higher institution. My dream is to attain the highest degree in Information Technology. According to NCWIT, women are twice as likely to quit their jobs in the high tech industry. The study found that 56% of technical women drop out mid-career due to negative workplace experiences. Race is also an Issue In the field of IT. I filled with the passion to attain this dream and prove to not just myself, but other women like me that "IT IS POSSIBLE”. I am a very organised person, and I already have my college years planned out (if I am fortunate to attend one). I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, and school on a scholarship. I plan on working fervently to attain my dreams of working in the "Information Technology Sector" and hopefully, founding a charity in the future.
    SkipSchool Scholarship
    My favorite scientist of all time happens to be Dr. Ada Lovelace reason being that she was one of the first women to show "woman power" when it comes to computer science (a field that I'm highly interested in). Dr Ada Lovelace is known as the first computer programmer, and, since 2009, she has been recognized annually.
    Impact Scholarship for Black Students
    One of my favourite things to do during my early childhood days was to fantasise about the future. I always spent my Free Time either hanging out with my brothers or imagining how my life will turn out. Growing up in Nigeria, I often saw mothers struggle to make ends meet: these parents struggled to feed their children, educate their kids, clothe their children e.t.c and I promised never to put myself in a situation like that (little did I know that if they had the opportunity, they would not be in a condition as such). During my early adolescent years, I learned that life indeed was not a bed of roses. With my parent’s business going bankrupt, my parents owing banks, different banks threatening to take our house, struggling to eat three square meals, and being unable to school for a whole year(owing school fees). I planned my entire future. I hated that we were a liability to friends, families and the neighbourhood. My mother even travelled to Europe (for two years) to work as a cook in the Nigeria embassy to make ends meet. Some days, I wished God could come down from heaven and assure me that all will be okay. On other days, I wished that either of my parents could just win a lottery so that life could go back to normal. I planned my whole future out and promised never to give in. I know that I possess potentials, and I was determined to use my prospects fully to attain a better life. One of my goals in life is to be a motivation to others and help those in need. I also desire to live comfortably and in wealth. In the year 2017, my mother and I got the opportunity to visit the United states. As the situation turned out, my mom ended up going back (so as not to overstay her visit) while I stayed back with some family members. On my first day in High School, I was advised to focus on my education and that alone (if I want to gain admission to colleges). My main goal was to graduate high school in flying colours, so I spent most of my time studying, revising, watching educational youtube videos, Khan Academy and self-educating. I prioritised my education to the point where I didn’t care about my social life or making friends. Flash forward to my senior year, (the year of college applications and financial aids), I discovered that my hard work throughout high school might go to waste seeing that I am unable to receive government grants, therefore, unable to attend most colleges of my dream. At this point in my life, I will be extremely grateful if given the opportunity to study at any higher institution(regardless of reputation, graduation rates, rank or how good/bad said college is). I am a very organised person, and I already have my college years planned out (if I am fortunate to attend one). I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, school on a scholarship and hopefully, upgrade my immigration status. I believe that my childhood experiences have a huge impact on who I am and the woman I’m becoming. Through my childhood, I learnt that “if you are too big to serve, then you are too small to lead” anyone can fall down from grace. What really matters is how you react to the fall. I came to a realization that if you don’t humble yourself, life will always find a way to humble you. My adolescent years taught me that success does not come by accident. One has to work and fight hard for it, which I plan on doing.
    JuJu Foundation Scholarship
    As humans, we tend to think indifferently which is totally acceptable because our differences are what makes us unique. When it comes to the word "inspiration", we all have different definitions for it. During my freshman year, I always thought that my classmates were vain reason being that whenever we were asked what our inspiration was, they always said that they're inspired by movies, music, their favourite singer, favourite actor/actress, cartoons, anime e.t.c. I always wished I had that type of "easy life" and my inspiration had nothing to do with adversity/suffering". What drives me to be successful is the fear of poverty. During my early adolescent years (living in Africa, Nigeria), I learned that life indeed was not a bed of roses. With my parent’s business going bankrupt, different banks threatening to take our house, struggling to eat three square meals, and being unable to school for a whole year(owing school fees). I planned my entire future. I hated that we were a liability to friends, families and the neighbourhood. My mother even travelled to Europe (for two years) to work as a cook in the Nigeria embassy to make ends meet. Some days, I wished God could come down from heaven an assure me that all will be okay. On other days, I wished that either of my parents could just win a lottery so that life could go back to normal (I saw how hard they worked and suffered for my brothers and me sake). I planned my whole future out and promised never to give in. I know that I possess potentials, and I was determined to use my prospects fully to attain a better life. One of my goals in life is to be a motivation to others and help those in need. I also desire to live comfortably and give my parents the best life. In the year 2017, my mother and I got the opportunity to visit the united states. As the situation turned out, my mom ended up going back (so as not to overstay her visit) while I stayed back with some family members. On my first day in High School, I was advised to focus on my education and that alone (if I want to gain admission to colleges). My main goal was to graduate high school in flying colours, so I spent most of my time studying, watching educative youtube videos (Khan Academy), and self-educating. I prioritised my education to the point where I didn’t care about my social life or making friends. At this point in my life, I will be extremely grateful if given the opportunity to study at any higher institution(regardless of reputation, graduation rates or rank). I am a very organised person, and I already have my college years planned out (if I am fortunate to attend one). I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, school on a scholarship and become a legal immigrant.
    Bubba Wallace Live to Be Different Scholarship
    One of my favourite things to do during my early childhood days was to fantasise about the future. I always spent my Freetime either hanging out with my brothers or imagining how my life will turn out. Growing up in Nigeria, I often saw mothers struggle to make ends meet: these parents struggled to feed their children, educate their kids, clothe their children e.t.c and I promised never to put myself in a situation like that (little did I know that if they had the opportunity, they would not be in a condition as such). During my early adolescent years, I learned that life indeed was not a bed of roses. With my parent’s business going bankrupt, my parent owing banks, different banks threatening to take our house, struggling to eat three square meals, and being unable to school for a whole year(owing school fees). I planned my entire future. I hated that we were a liability to friends, families and the neighbourhood. My mother even travelled to Europe (for two years) to work as a cook in the Nigeria embassy to make ends meet. Some days, I wished God could come down from heaven an assure me that all will be okay. On other days, I wished that either of my parents could just win a lottery so that life could go back to normal. I planned my whole future out and promised never to give in. I know that I possess potentials, and I was determined to use my prospects fully to attain a better life. One of my goals in life is to be a motivation to others and help those in need. I also desire to live comfortably and in wealth. In the year 2017, my mother and I got the opportunity to visit the united states. As the situation turned out, my mom ended up going back (so as not to overstay her visit) while I stayed back with some family members. On my first day in High School, I was advised to focus on my education and that alone (if I want to gain admission to colleges). My main goal was to graduate high school in flying colours, so I spent most of my time studying, revising, watching educative youtube videos, Khan Academy and self-educating. I prioritised my education to the point where I didn’t care about my social life or making friends. Flash forward to my senior year, (the year of college applications and financial aids), I discovered that my hard work throughout high school might go to waste seeing that I am unable to receive government grants, therefore, unable to attend most colleges of my dream. At this point in my life, I will be extremely grateful if given the opportunity to study at any higher institution(regardless of reputation, graduation rates, rank or how good/bad said college is). I am a very organised person, and I already have my college years planned out (if I am fortunate to attend one). I plan to take up a part-time job to sponsor my personal needs, live on a tight budget, school on a scholarship and hopefully become a legal immigrant. I plan on working fervently to attain my dreams of working in the "Information Technology Sector" and hopefully, founding a charity in the future. I believe that my childhood experiences have a huge impact on who I am and the woman I’m becoming. Through my childhood, I learnt that “if you are too big to serve, then you are too small to lead” anyone can fall down from grace. What really matters is how you react to the fall. I came to a realization that if you don’t humble yourself, life will always find a way to humble you. My adolescent years taught me that success does not come by accident. One has to work and fight hard for it.