Reading
Self-Help
Academic
I read books multiple times per week
Precious Fitzgerald Bey
695
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
WinnerPrecious Fitzgerald Bey
695
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
As an individual with autism (neurodivergence), I am dedicated to engaging with the world and others through a perspective that recognizes that what some categorize as a disability is simply another component in the diverse array of human experiences.
Education
West Los Angeles College
Associate's degree programMajors:
- Law
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Associate's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Computer & Network Security
Dream career goals:
Second Chance Scholarship
The metamorphosis of my life has been a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and tenacity, navigating through the labyrinth of adversity as an autistic individual amidst a tumultuous environment. The echoes of my past, marred by the silence of my voice until the age of 13 and the shadows cast by the abusive grip of my schizophrenic crack addict father, sculpted me into a being ensnared by anger and distrust, leading me astray towards the somber confines of juvenile hall jai and prison. Yet, as the sun began to set on my late twenties, a glimmer of hope emerged, illuminating the path towards a profound voyage of self-discovery and growth.
With painstaking determination, I embarked on the arduous journey of honing my social skills and nurturing emotional intelligence. The resolute commitment to therapy and immersion in the intricacies of emotional intelligence classes endowed me with the tools required to chart the uncharted waters of human interaction and forge genuine connections. It was within the crucible of these expeditions that I unearthed a reservoir of fortitude, propelling me towards a horizon brimming with promise and untold possibilities.
The allure of programming AI and delving into the realms of coding springs from a deep-seated ardor for technology and its enchanting capacity to bridge the chasm between individuals, transcending the barriers of traditional communication. In the tapestry of my journey, computers emerged as my steadfast companions, serving as conduits that facilitated my communion with the world, allowing me to articulate thoughts and emotions when words failed me. The realm of programming beckons to me like a siren's song, a realm where creativity dances with logic, innovation knows no bounds, and the vistas of potentiality stretch endlessly into infinity.
The attainment of my paralegal studies stood as a pivotal juncture in the grand mosaic of my odyssey, paving the way towards the zenith of my aspirations - mastery in AI programming. The beacon of opportunity emanating from the scholarship not only shines in the form of financial aid but also in the validation and encouragement it bestows upon my dreams. Through this scholarship, I envisage a future where my skills will be honed to perfection, knowledge deepened, and a lasting legacy crafted within the realms of technology.
Looking forward, I am resolutely committed to the ethos of paying it forward, utilizing the light gleaned from my experiences and expertise to guide and mentor others treading similar paths fraught with shadows. A mentorship program germinates within my vision, extending a helping hand to individuals traversing their own labyrinths towards personal blossoming and professional triumph. Through the sharing of my narrative, the offering of guidance, and the nurturing of a sense of community, my aspiration resonates in inspiring others to surmount adversities, unlock dormant potentials, and pursue their aspirations with unwavering resolve.
Amidst the ebb and flow of my current homelessness, the flame of perseverance blazes undimmed. Enrolled in school, my ardor for education propels me towards academic excellence, painting a vivid canvas of hope amidst the shadows of uncertainty.
In the grand tapestry of my destiny, as I draw closer to the shores of achievement, my vision coalesces into a utopia driven by compassion and innovation. Within this envisioned tapestry lies the creation of a sanctuary for the cognitively disabled and homeless; a haven where therapists and resources stand as sentinels of support. An abode where individuals can lease apartments, entwined with a section dedicated to the provision of refuge - a sanctuary wherein individuals, graced with six months to a year of rent-free respite, can navigate the labyrinth of life's challenges.
Frederick and Bernice Beretta Memorial Scholarship
As a child, my world was shrouded in silence. I didn't speak until the age of 13, grappling with the weight of being an autistic individual in a chaotic environment. My father, a schizophrenic crack addict, subjected me to abuse that left scars etched deeply into my soul. The pain and turmoil I endured led me down a path of anger and mistrust, building walls around myself to shield against further harm.
It wasn't until my late twenties that a glimmer of light pierced through the darkness that enveloped me. Through perseverance and determination, I began to chip away at the barriers I had erected, slowly but steadily learning to trust again and to embrace the world around me. It was during this period of self-discovery that I stumbled upon the captivating realm of programming and artificial intelligence.
Computers became my sanctuary, my gateway to a world where communication flowed effortlessly and connections were forged without fear or hesitation. In the digital landscape, I found solace and belonging, a place where my limitations melted away, and my true potential began to shine. Through coding and delving into the intricacies of AI, I discovered a passion that resonated deep within me—a fascination with the power of technology to transcend boundaries and transform lives.
Programming AI isn't just a career path for me; it's a calling—an opportunity to harness my unique perspective and experiences to create something meaningful and impactful. Computers, with their binary language and logical frameworks, allowed me to connect with the world and engage in ways that were previously inaccessible to me. They provided a voice when words failed me, a platform where my ideas could take flight and soar beyond the confines of my mind.
Completing my paralegal studies was a stepping stone towards my ultimate goal of mastering programming and AI. It was a testament to my resilience, a testament to my unwavering determination to defy the odds and carve out a future filled with promise and possibility. As I embark on this journey of learning and growth, I am driven by a profound desire to explore the boundless potential of technology, to push the boundaries of what is possible, and to leave a lasting impact on the world around me.
In the vast expanse of cyberspace, I have found a home—a place where my differences are celebrated, where my limitations are transformed into strengths, and where my dreams can take root and flourish. Programming AI isn't just about lines of code and algorithms; it's about creativity, empathy, and the endless pursuit of knowledge. It's about crafting a future where possibilities are limitless, where innovation knows no bounds, and where the voiceless find their voice in the digital symphony of tomorrow.
Hines Scholarship
Growing up as an autistic child in a tumultuous environment, my early years were marked by silence and isolation. Unable to speak until the age of 13, I navigated a world where communication felt like an insurmountable barrier. The abuse I suffered at the hands of my schizophrenic father left me scarred, both physically and emotionally, instilling within me a profound sense of anger and an inherent mistrust of those around me.
Through the years, I grappled with these internal struggles, seeking solace in solitude and distancing myself from potential harm. However, as I entered my late twenties, a shift began to occur within me. I realized that to truly move forward and break free from the shadows of my past, I needed to confront my demons head-on and begin the journey towards healing and growth.
It was during this period of self-discovery and reflection that I found myself drawn to the world of technology and artificial intelligence. The intricate complexity of programming and coding provided a sanctuary where I could channel my emotions and intellect, pouring my energy into a field that captivated my imagination. As I delved deeper into the realm of AI, I discovered a passion that ignited a spark within me—a spark of curiosity, ambition, and hope for the future.
With this newfound sense of purpose and determination, I set my sights on college as a beacon of opportunity and transformation. To me, college represents more than just academic pursuit; it symbolizes a gateway to a world of infinite possibilities, a canvas on which I can paint a brighter, more vibrant future for myself.
As I embark on this educational journey, I am driven by a dual mission. Firstly, I aim to hone my social skills and cultivate emotional intelligence, bridging the gap that once divided me from the world around me. Through interactions with peers, professors, and mentors, I seek to forge meaningful connections, nurture relationships, and develop the interpersonal acumen that eluded me for so long.
Secondly, I am fueled by a deep-seated desire to explore the realms of programming and coding, leveraging my unique perspective and experiences to innovate and create. By completing my paralegal studies and subsequently immersing myself in the world of technology, I aspire to marry my passion for law with my love for AI, crafting a career that blends the analytical rigor of legal practice with the creative freedom of technological innovation.
In essence, going to college is a transformative odyssey—a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and reinvention. Through my studies, I aim to unlock my full potential, to transcend the limitations of my past, and to carve out a path that is uniquely mine. I strive not only to excel academically but also to pave the way for a future defined by resilience, growth, and the unwavering pursuit of my dreams.
Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship
I am an autistic individual navigating a world that often feels overwhelming and unwelcoming. My childhood was profoundly shaped by my father’s struggle with schizophrenia, creating an environment of unpredictability where only chaos coexisted. This tumultuous upbringing set the stage for a series of events that would alter my life forever.
When I was just a child, my father made a decision that would haunt me for years. He entrusted me to an unnamed figure in the music industry. I was put on a plane to New York, escorted by a stranger whose identity remains a blur. The journey felt surreal, a disorienting flight from chaos into a world of darker danger. Upon arrival, I was taken to a party that was anything but celebratory.
Locked in a room for hours, I was subjected to a relentless cacophony of music that drowned out my screams and amplified my fear. It was there that I was raped, a violation that shattered my innocence and left me grappling with feelings I could not articulate. This experience inflicted deep psychological wounds that would take years to comprehend. When I was finally returned to California, I carried the heavy burden of trauma and the loss of my childhood innocence.
In the aftermath of this horrific experience, I fell silent. I did not speak a word until I was 13 years old. My silence became a shield, a way to protect myself from a world that had betrayed me. Anger simmered beneath the surface, and I struggled with emotional intelligence, unable to understand my feelings or those of others. My childhood was marked by isolation as I navigated the complexities of autism compounded by trauma.
As I entered my late twenties, I began to unravel the threads of my past. It took years for me to grasp the social cues and emotional nuances that many of my peers understood in their late teens and early adulthood. Social situations, particularly around men, often left me feeling exposed, as the echoes of my past trauma resurfaced. I learned to isolate myself, retreating into a world that felt safer, even as I longed for connection.
Amid these struggles, I discovered a passion for technology, particularly artificial intelligence. I became captivated by the idea of creating something that could understand and interact with the world in ways I sometimes found challenging. This passion became a lifeline, a source of hope that propelled me forward despite the darkness of my past.
Currently, I find myself homeless, yet I persist in my education with determination. Each day presents unique challenges, but I strive to rise above the circumstances that threaten to define me. I have learned to adapt, stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing extroversion when necessary, especially in networking situations.
Through this journey, I have come to understand that resilience is not the absence of struggle but the ability to rise and move forward despite it.I am a survivor and a learner with dreams that extend beyond the confines of my past. I hold on to the hope that I will not only understand the world around me but also find my place within it, using my experiences to inspire and help others facing similar challenges.
In sharing my story, I aim to illuminate the complexities of trauma, mental illness, and resilience. I am more than my past; I am a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and thrive. Through my ongoing pursuit of education and my passion for technology, I aspire to create a future where my experiences contribute to the greater good.
Enders Scholarship
I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to share a chapter of my life, one marked by profound loss, trauma, and resilience that has shaped the core of my being. The seismic impact of losing loved ones, particularly my father, who battled schizophrenia and addiction, reverberates through my soul like an incessant echo of sorrow and longing. Growing up as an autistic child in an environment tainted by abuse and chaos, I found myself navigating treacherous waters that threatened to drown the essence of my spirit.
The agony of witnessing my uncle's descent into darkness, culminating in a heinous act of violence that claimed the lives of his wife and my beloved cousins, cast a shadow of despair over my young existence. These unspeakable tragedies tore at the fabric of my being, unraveling the fragile threads of innocence and trust that bound me to the world. In the aftermath of such harrowing events, I retreated into a cocoon of silence, my voice stifled by the weight of unspeakable grief and anguish, rendering me mute until the age of thirteen.
Meditation and journaling became my sanctuaries, offering solace in the tempest of my emotions and providing a canvas upon which the tapestry of my pain could be woven into threads of healing and self-discovery. Through the practice of mindfulness, I learned to navigate the labyrinthine corridors of my mind, confronting inner demons with grace and compassion. Journaling became a cathartic voyage, a chronicle of my journey through the valley of shadows, allowing me to excavate the recesses of my soul and forge a path towards light and redemption.
The desire to pursue higher education is rooted in a profound yearning to transcend the crucible of my past and carve a future imbued with purpose, knowledge, and renewal. Education symbolizes a beacon of hope, a gateway to liberation and transformation that promises to elevate me beyond the confines of my history and propel me towards a realm of boundless possibilities. My quest for learning springs from a deep well of resilience and determination, fueling my aspiration to harness the power of knowledge as a catalyst for personal growth and societal change.
In contemplating the biggest influences in my life, I find myself guided by the spectral presence of my fallen loved ones, whose spirits linger like guardian angels in the tapestry of my memory. Their absence serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of existence and the impermanence of earthly ties, inspiring me to cherish each moment with reverence and gratitude. The indomitable spirit of those who have faced adversity with courage and grace, both known and unknown, lights the path of my journey, illuminating the way forward with the radiance of resilience and hope.
CREATIVE. INSPIRED. HAPPY Mid-Career Writing Scholarship
The art of writing is a profound expression of creativity and imagination that transcends the physical boundaries of our existence, inviting us into a realm where words weave intricate tapestries of thought and emotion. What captivates me about writing is its ability to transport individuals to diverse landscapes, both real and fantastical, where the boundaries of time and space blur, and new worlds unfold before the reader. Writing has the exquisite power to ignite the senses, evoke vivid imagery, and paint cinematic scenes in the theater of one's mind, allowing stories to come alive through the reader's unique lens of perception.
In the realm of literature, words transform into voices, characters, and narratives that resonate deeply within the hearts and minds of those who partake in the written word. Writing possesses the magical quality of creating a symphony of emotions, evoking laughter, tears, joy, and introspection in equal measure. It is a medium through which storytellers breathe life into their creations, crafting complex personas that mirror the depth and diversity of human experience. The allure of writing lies in its capacity to entertain, enlighten, and inspire, touching the souls of readers in ways that often transcend the limitations of mere visual perception.
For me, writing serves as a sanctuary of liberation and self-expression, offering a gateway to channel my thoughts, feelings, and aspirations onto the blank canvas of a page. Through writing, I find freedom in articulating my innermost desires, fears, and dreams, allowing the ink to flow freely as I navigate the uncharted territories of my imagination. It provides a voice to the voiceless parts of my being, a vessel through which I can navigate the complexities of existence, and a means to communicate with the world in a language that resonates with the depths of my soul.
Despite embarking on screenplays and literary ventures that often remain unfinished, the yearning to immerse myself fully in the creative process and see a project through to fruition remains a burning ember within my heart. The prospect of delving deeper into the realms of storytelling, honing my craft, and eventually contributing to a larger creative endeavor fills me with a sense of purpose and excitement. The journey of furthering my education holds the promise of expanding my horizons, refining my skills, and nurturing my passion for writing, paving the way for future endeavors that resonate with the essence of my creative spirit.
Make Your "Truth" Your Own Scholarship
WinnerAs an autistic individual who has faced the trauma of rape and the struggles of experiencing racism as a person of color by the hands of a Jehovah witness member, my journey to leave the Jehovah's Witnesses was deeply influenced by a desire for acceptance, growth, and spiritual connection. The weight of these experiences made me feel disconnected and searching for a place where I could truly belong and thrive.
Since leaving or contemplating leaving the organization, I have embarked on a profound path of personal growth and self-discovery. Through therapy, self-help work, and emotional intelligence classes, I have delved deep into my human experience, exploring philosophies and intelligence to better understand myself and the world around me. Being autistic has driven me to seek independence and cultivate my inner genius, pushing me to chart my own course towards healing and enlightenment.
Leaving or considering leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses has been a catalyst for immense personal evolution. I have embraced autonomy, critical thinking, and expanded spiritual beliefs beyond the confines of organized religion. This departure has allowed me to foster self-awareness, empathy, and a broader perspective on spirituality that aligns with my true essence and values. It has been a transformational journey of self-reflection and empowerment.
Despite lacking a traditional support system, I have found solace in my faith, personal growth practices, and therapeutic tools. My inner strength, resilience, and unwavering determination have become pillars to lean on during this pivotal transition. The wisdom gained from therapy, emotional intelligence classes, and the depths of my philosophical exploration have fortified my ability to navigate this journey with grace and introspection. My commitment to thriving independently speaks volumes about my resilience and my quest for personal fulfillment and connection with God.
In conclusion, my decision to part ways with the Jehovah's Witnesses is a testament to my courage, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of growth and acceptance. By choosing this transformative path, I am actively shaping my personal narrative, seeking wisdom, and forging connections that resonate with my deepest values and aspirations. My journey reflects a profound commitment to living authentically, finding solace in spirituality, and honing the brilliance that exists within me.
As an individual on a journey of personal growth, my autism has been both a challenge and a gift in my pursuit to program AI and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. My unique neurological wiring has provided me with a distinct perspective on the world, allowing me to approach programming AI in a deeply human, personalized, and philosophical manner. By merging my autistic tendencies with my passion for technology and artificial intelligence, I aim to create innovative solutions that address societal issues and help individuals in profound ways.
Through my experiences with therapy, self-help work, and emotional intelligence classes, I have cultivated a deep sense of empathy, understanding, and resilience that informs my approach to programming AI. My commitment to helping others stems from a desire to leverage my talents and insights to build systems that positively impact society. I believe that by infusing my work with creativity, compassion, and depth, I can contribute to the advancement of AI technology while maintaining a human-centered focus on improving lives.
The love of God and my spiritual journey have played a transformative role in my healing process, leading me to find forgiveness for my rapist. Despite the profound pain and trauma I endured, my faith has guided me towards a path of forgiveness, compassion, and inner peace. By embracing the love of God, I have transcended the shackles of resentment and anger, allowing me to release the burden of hatred and pain. Through this act of forgiveness, I have liberated myself from the chains of the past and opened my heart to a future filled with hope, healing, and divine grace.