Hobbies and interests
Aerospace
Artificial Intelligence
Astrophysics
Astronomy
Basketball
Coding And Computer Science
Machine Learning
Exercise And Fitness
Okechukwu Achonu
2,095
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WinnerOkechukwu Achonu
2,095
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Finalist1x
WinnerBio
I’m passionate about using technology, art, and education to solve real-world problems and inspire positive change. With interests spanning AI, data science, and art, I aim to create solutions that impact society, from advancing ethical AI to developing sustainable technologies. I also engage in the arts, giving gallery tours at the Carl Van Vechten Gallery, where I explore the intersection of creativity and innovation. As a leader and mentor, I’m committed to empowering underrepresented communities by sharing knowledge and fostering growth. My diverse experiences drive me to make a lasting impact locally and globally.
Education
Fisk University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Computer Science
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Computer Software
Dream career goals:
Software Engineer
Incoming Hardware Engineering Intern
NVIDIA2025 – 2025
Sports
Basketball
Intramural2021 – Present4 years
Research
Computational Science
Atlanta University Consortium — Student Researcher2024 – 2024
Arts
Carl Van Vechten Art Galleries
Visual Arts2024 – 2024
Public services
Volunteering
Schrader Lane 2, Fisk University — I combine my passion for art, science, and education to inspire young minds. Through volunteering, I’ve taught children how creativity drives innovation, mentoring them to explore the intersection of art and science in meaningful ways.2024 – Present
Future Interests
Advocacy
Volunteering
Entrepreneurship
Beulah C. Parker Memorial Scholarship
WinnerAs I stood at my father’s graveside, letting the red sand slip through my fingers, I couldn’t ignore the role medical misinformation had played in his passing. It was a moment that shaped my perspective, reinforcing my belief in the power of knowledge and technology to make a difference. I knew then that I wanted to use STEM to create meaningful change that could improve lives and prevent others from facing similar challenges.
STEM, to me, is more than a field of study; it’s a gateway to transformative solutions. From the way technology can connect people to how mathematical models guide real-world decisions, STEM has the potential to impact every area of life. Motivated by this belief, I sought every opportunity to deepen my knowledge, competing in events like the National JETS Competition, where I placed first, and the KSF National Math Competition, where I earned gold. These achievements represented more than personal milestones. They proved how education and innovation could open doors to a better future.
As a Black student from Nigeria attending Fisk University, I represent a voice often missing in STEM. My background has given me firsthand insight into the challenges low-income students face while pursuing higher education, from the financial strain of tuition to limited access to resources. Despite these obstacles, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned recognition as a W.E.B. DuBois Honors Scholar and Erastus Milo Cravath Presidential Scholar. These accomplishments have strengthened my resolve to use my education to create meaningful change.
One pivotal moment in my STEM journey was leading a team at the Microsoft X Vanderbilt Accelerate Your AI Un-Hackathon, where we developed TruthRx. This AI-powered tool identifies healthcare misinformation with over 90% accuracy. The project, inspired by my personal experiences, became a way to address the issue of misinformation. It reminded me of how technology can solve problems that directly impact lives. Additionally, it reinforced my goal to create tools that prevent others from enduring similar tragedies.
Representation is critical in STEM, not only to ensure diverse perspectives but also to pave the way for those who follow. Through roles like Senior Ambassador for the International Youth Math Challenge and involvement in organizations such as HBCU20x20 and the National Society of Black Engineers, I work to empower other students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. I want to show them that they can overcome barriers and make an impact in STEM.
The Beulah C. Parker Memorial Scholarship would alleviate the financial challenges that often distract from my studies and projects. With this support, I can continue developing solutions like TruthRx and mentoring others to pursue STEM. Every project I undertake—from creating AI tools to designing quantum circuits—is a step toward building a future where misinformation no longer costs lives and all students, regardless of their background, can realize their potential.
I am committed to shaping a world where STEM will be a tool for equity and opportunity, ensuring that previous mistakes do not define the future. By championing diversity and inclusion, I aspire to create pathways for others to thrive in STEM, leaving no voice unheard and no potential untapped.