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Lei Woods

1,285

Bold Points

1x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

Bio

I spent most of my life kind of wandering through, trying to figure out what I wanted to do. As a black woman born in the Midwest, it's super hard to get anywhere. My life didn't start until I moved to California. I was given the tools to succeed, battle my mental health difficulties, and the ability to push myself forward and to really figure out what I wanted to do. I have an extensive background in childcare and education, but my dream is to work in tech. I would like to work in EdTech creating apps to help children diagnosed with autism.

Education

San Francisco State University

Bachelor's degree program
2020 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Computer Science
  • Minors:
    • Education, General

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Computer Science
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Computer Software

    • Dream career goals:

      CTO

      Future Interests

      Volunteering

      Philanthropy

      Bold Goals Scholarship
      My goal is to get a degree in computer science and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Bold Motivation Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree.. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light.
      Robert Lee, Sr. and Bernice Williams Memorial Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Theresa Lord Future Leader Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      AptAmigo Innovation Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Focus Forward Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      The Final Push Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Deborah's Grace Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Giving Back to the Future Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Lillian's & Ruby's Way Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      AMPLIFY Diversity in Technology Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Connie Konatsotis Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Black Students in STEM Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Ruth and Johnnie McCoy Memorial Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Learner Education Women in Mathematics Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Shine Your Light College Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Dylan's Journey Memorial Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Patrick Stanley Memorial Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Markforged Distinguished Women Engineers Grant
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Cliff T. Wofford STEM Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Dr. Samuel Attoh Legacy Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Social Change Fund United Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Jameela Jamil x I Weigh Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Markforged Distinguished Black Engineers Grant
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Jillian Ellis Pathway Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. Even with that degree, it was extremely hard for her to get a job while I was growing up, and she was largely underappreciated for the work she was doing. I would like to change that by giving young children of color a better start. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light. Neurodivergent children, children who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, ADD, or any other cognitive or mental disorder are much less likely to be successful in life, this is even more true for children of color. I would like to first set an example, as someone who is neurodivergent myself. I am more than willing to talk about my struggles and my triumphs, and while doing that can help young children just like me, I also want to make sure that I can set them up for success as well. Just saying "you can be like me" means nothing unless you also hand that person a toolbox so that they can find their own success. I think the best way to do that is through technology, whether an app that can make learning easier, focus app, or an app to assist parents, teachers, registered behavior technicians, assistance workers, tutors or any other adult who will have a formative role in these children's lives. There are so many neurodivergent children and not enough proper training to go around so that these children won't be forgotten. A simple phone, tablet, or computer application will never take the place of a living, breathing, human person, but at the very least it can lessen the divide and give the children who don't have assistance a chance.
      Cocoa Diaries Scholarship
      As a black woman born and raised in the Midwest, I have first hand experience that it is extremely hard to get anywhere, especially if you don't have a degree. My mother is a successful black woman, she is the second woman in our family, the other is her sister, to get a college degree. When I was growing up, I was always so interested in the ancestry family trees, and how far back someone could trace their lineage. Unfortunately, mine only goes back about five generations. For most, if not all, modern black Americans, it's almost impossible to trace your lineage beyond who you know and who your grandparents knew. The records just aren't there. I came away from that experience knowing, that it's important to pave the way for the youth who are coming after me. My 10 year old, neurodivergent brother who is going to need a path to follow to see his future. He, like many others, are likely to follow his peers largely unnoticed and unseen. My goal is to get a degree in computer science with a minor in education so that I can find my footing at an EdTech company and set my focus on creating things that can be of use to other neurodivergent minorities who are historically underrepresented in many areas, but more notably education and Healthcare. I have a strong belief that one of the many reasons black people are so underrepresented is because young black people aren't given the tools they need to forge their own path and find their own light.