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Silas Wyatt

2,305

Bold Points

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Finalist

Bio

Greetings, I'm Silas Wyatt. I graduated from high school in 2023. I will be attending Georgia Gwinnett College majoring in Information Technology with a concentration in digital media. After I graduate, I aspire to have a successful career in the gaming industry. In my spare time, I enjoy playing soccer and spending time with family/friends. I'm also an avid gamer. I stream content on Twitch and YouTube. My goal is to obtain a huge fan base so that I can monetize my channels. Watching Anime and reading mangas keep me entertained as well. I am currently creating my own manga inspired by my life events.

Education

Georgia Gwinnett College

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Design and Applied Arts

Spencer High School

High School
2019 - 2023

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
    • Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
    • Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Computer Games

    • Dream career goals:

      Digital Media

    • Washer

      Tidal Wave
      2023 – 2023
    • Team Member

      Sky Zone
      2021 – 20221 year

    Sports

    Soccer

    Varsity
    2013 – 202310 years

    Arts

    • Drama Club

      Acting
      2021 – 2023

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Feed The Valley — Packer
      2019 – 2019

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Entrepreneurship

    Eden Alaine Memorial Scholarship
    Losing my uncle Jojo in a tragic car accident was a profoundly transformative experience that reshaped my perspective on life. It taught me the fragility and unpredictability of existence, reminding me to cherish every moment with my loved ones. Sometimes I can get distracted in things that are time consuming like social media and gaming. However, this loss instilled in me a deeper appreciation for the relationships that I hold dear and motivated me to nurture them with more care and attention. It also inspired a commitment to live more fully and purposefully. I found myself drawn to activities and causes that my uncle was passionate about, seeking to honor his memory by carrying forward his legacy of kindness and generosity. He had an awesome sense of humor and had a very energetic spirit. Through this journey, I discovered the healing power of storytelling. Sharing memories of my uncle Jojo with family and friends not only keeps his spirit alive but also brings us closer together. These stories became a source of comfort and strength, reminding us of the impact that one person can have on the lives of many. While the pain of losing my uncle remains, it has been an inspiration for positive change in my life, shaping me into a more compassionate person. In honoring his memory, I've realized that the small, everyday actions can make a significant difference in my everyday life. Whether it's lending a listening ear to a friend or taking a moment to appreciate the many blessings that I have, these moments serve as gentle reminders of my uncle's kind personality. In my personal life, I've embraced a mindset of continuous growth and learning. My uncle Jojo always believed in the power of knowledge, and I've found joy in expanding mine through reading, engaging in conversations with peers, and exploring new hobbies. I also started journaling as a way to process my grief and reflect on the lessons learned from this profound loss. Ultimately, this journey has taught me that while loss can be deeply painful, it can also be a catalyst for transformation and resilience. By cherishing the memories and applying the lessons learned, I strive to honor my uncle's legacy, living a life that celebrates his spirit and the enduring impact of his love. As I continue to navigate life without my uncle, I will forever hold his memory close, allowing it to guide me toward a life filled with purpose, empathy, and gratitude. Though he is no longer physically present, his legacy lives on in the choices I make and the person I am becoming.
    Team USA Fan Scholarship
    With soccer being my favorite sport and my main focus for years, I never had an interest in track & feild prior the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. The sheer strength and skillful talent the athletes showed caught my attention. My favorite moment of this year's olympics was the men's 400 m race. From what I ascertain, the 400 meters is one of the most grueling events in track and field, requiring a perfect blend of speed, endurance, and strategy. Quincy Hall's performance blew my mind. The moment he ran from 4th to 1st place with seconds to spare was pure exhilaration! I erupted into cheers as Hall crossed the finish line. His face displayed a mixture of pain, triumph and relief. His dedication and hard work had definitely paid off and earned him the gold medal. Hall's performance was a masterclass in athleticism, showcasing his ability to maintain a blistering pace while fending off strong competitors. Quincy's victory wasn't just a win for him but for the entire nation, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence. Moments like these inspire countless of young athletes watching to tune their craft and give their all when the moment arises. Quincy has gained a lifelong fan.
    Simon Strong Scholarship
    Growing up in a single parent household, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resilience and determination. Access to various resources were limited and I often found myself struggling to keep up with my peers. Despite these obstacles, I remained steadfast in my commitment to learning, using every opportunity to advance my knowledge and skills. Watching my mother go back to school and earning her degree while parenting 2 boys motivated me to become a better student. The adversity has instilled in me a profound appreciation for education and a relentless drive to succeed. My passion for STEM, comes from a deep curiosity about the world around me and a desire to solve complex problems. From a young age, I was fascinated by how things worked, whether it was dismantling household gadgets to understand their mechanisms or conducting simple experiments in my backyard. This intrinsic interest evolved into a profound love for STEM subjects as I progressed through my schooling. I am particularly drawn to the field of gaming digital art, where I see the potential to make a meaningful impact on generations to come by developing innovative gaming that converges technologies. Financially, my journey through higher education has been a bit rocky. I often feel guilty for placing the burden of my college tuition and related expenses on my family. Despite these financial insecurities, I have persevered, working part-time jobs during the summer and applying for various scholarships to support my education. This scholarship would be instrumental in alleviating some of the financial pressures, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on my financial worries. It would enable me to access essential resources, such as textbooks and lab equipment, and participate in internships and research opportunities that are crucial for my professional development. With this scholarship, I am confident that I will be able to achieve my academic and career goals, contributing to the field of STEM and making a positive difference in the world. Thank you for considering my application and for your support in helping me turn my aspirations into reality. I am committed to leveraging my education to give back to the community that has shaped me. I hope to serve as a role model for other young people from underrepresented backgrounds, demonstrating that with perseverance, passion, and support, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve one's dreams. My ultimate goal is to use my STEM education to innovate and drive change, particularly in the gaming industry. In addition to my academic pursuits, I would like to one day be actively involved in outreach programs that promote STEM education among underserved youth in my community. Once I obtain my degree, I look forward to volunteering as a mentor to help students with their homework and encourage them to explore STEM fields. The financial support of this scholarship will not only change my life but also ripple out to affect the lives of many others in my community and beyond. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to groundbreaking advancements in gaming. In conclusion, the challenges I have faced have shaped me into a resilient and determined individual with a deep-seated passion for STEM. This scholarship represents more than financial aid; it is an endorsement of my capabilities and potential. With your support, I am confident that I can excel in my studies, contribute meaningfully to the field of gaming, and inspire others to pursue their passions despite the obstacles they may encounter. Thank you for your time and consideration.
    LeBron James Fan Scholarship
    I admire LeBron James for several reasons. First and foremost, his incredible talent and versatility on the basketball court are undeniable. LeBron's ability to play multiple positions makes him an above average player. He has consistently demonstrated his skills throughout his career by scoring an average of 27 points and 7 assists per game which often leads his teams to victory. Beyond being a basketball player, LeBron's impact off the court is equally impressive. He has used his platform to advocate for social justice, education and community development. The "I PROMISE School" in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, is a testament to his commitment to giving back to his community and making a positive difference in the lives of others. He also has won multiple NBA championships, earned numerous MVP awards and broken countless records. However other NBA legends have achieved the same level of greatness. Many people compare him to other legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Each of these players has made significant contributions to the game and has their own unique strengths. LeBron's longevity and ability to perform at a high level over such a long career are certainly factors into the case for him being the greatest of all time. When LeBron was drafted into the NBA in 2003, his son Bronny James was a 1 year old. The fact that he and his son are now both in the NBA and playing on the team is astounding! That is an remarkable achievement in itself for the father and son duo. As for whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time is up for much debate and ultimately subjective.
    Student Life Photography Scholarship
    Powering The Future - Whiddon Memorial Scholarship
    My passion for STEM, comes from a deep curiosity about the world around me and a desire to solve complex problems. From a young age, I was fascinated by how things worked, whether it was dismantling household gadgets to understand their mechanisms or conducting simple experiments in my backyard. This intrinsic interest evolved into a profound love for STEM subjects as I progressed through my schooling. I am particularly drawn to the field of gaming digital art, where I see the potential to make a meaningful impact on generations to come by developing innovative gaming that converges technologies. Financially, my journey through higher education has been a bit rocky. I often feel guilty for placing the burden of my college tuition and related expenses on my family. Despite these financial insecurities, I have persevered, working part-time jobs during the summer and applying for various scholarships to support my education. This scholarship would be instrumental in alleviating some of the financial pressures, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on my financial worries. It would enable me to access essential resources such as textbooks, lab equipment and participate in internships that are crucial for my professional development. With this scholarship, I am confident that I will be able to achieve my academic and career goals, contributing to the field of STEM and making a positive difference in the world. Thank you for considering my application and for your support in helping me turn my aspirations into reality. I am committed to leveraging my education to give back to the community that has shaped me. I hope to serve as a role model for other young people from underrepresented backgrounds, demonstrating that with perseverance, passion, and support, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve one's dreams. My ultimate goal is to use my STEM education to innovate and drive change, particularly in the gaming industry. In addition to my academic pursuits, I would like to one day be actively involved in outreach programs that promote STEM education among underserved youth in my community. Once I obtain my degree, I look forward to volunteering as a mentor to help students with their homework and encourage them to explore STEM fields. The financial support of this scholarship will not only change my life but also ripple out to affect the lives of many others in my community and beyond. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to groundbreaking advancements in gaming. In conclusion, the challenges I have faced have shaped me into a resilient and determined individual with a deep-seated passion for STEM. This scholarship represents more than financial aid; it is an endorsement of my capabilities and potential. With your support, I am confident that I can excel in my studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of STEM by inspiring others to pursue their passions. Thank you for your time and consideration.
    Innovators of Color in STEM Scholarship
    My passion for STEM, comes from a deep curiosity about the world around me and a desire to solve complex problems. From a young age, I was fascinated by how things worked, whether it was dismantling household gadgets to understand their mechanisms or conducting simple experiments in my backyard. This intrinsic interest evolved into a profound love for STEM subjects as I progressed through my schooling. I am particularly drawn to the field of gaming digital art, where I see the potential to make a meaningful impact on generations to come by developing innovative gaming that converges technologies. Financially, my journey through higher education has been a bit rocky. I often feel guilty for placing the burden of my college tuition and related expenses on my family. Despite these financial insecurities, I have persevered, working part-time jobs during the summer and applying for various scholarships to support my education. This scholarship would be instrumental in alleviating some of the financial pressures, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on my financial worries. It would enable me to access essential resources such as textbooks, lab equipment and participate in internships that are crucial for my professional development. With this scholarship, I am confident that I will be able to achieve my academic and career goals, contributing to the field of STEM and making a positive difference in the world. Thank you for considering my application and for your support in helping me turn my aspirations into reality. I am committed to leveraging my education to give back to the community that has shaped me. I hope to serve as a role model for other young people from underrepresented backgrounds, demonstrating that with perseverance, passion, and support, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve one's dreams. My ultimate goal is to use my STEM education to innovate and drive change, particularly in the gaming industry. In addition to my academic pursuits, I would like to one day be actively involved in outreach programs that promote STEM education among underserved youth in my community. Once I obtain my degree, I look forward to volunteering as a mentor to help students with their homework and encourage them to explore STEM fields. The financial support of this scholarship will not only change my life but also ripple out to affect the lives of many others in my community and beyond. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to groundbreaking advancements in gaming. In conclusion, the challenges I have faced have shaped me into a resilient and determined individual with a deep-seated passion for STEM. This scholarship represents more than financial aid; it is an endorsement of my capabilities and potential. With your support, I am confident that I can excel in my studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of STEM by inspiring others to pursue their passions. Thank you for your time and consideration.
    BIPOC Scholars in STEM
    Thank you for considering my application and for believing in the power of education to change lives. First thing I promise to my future self is to maintain a lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth. By continuously seeking knowledge and skills, I will ensure that my future self is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of life and succeed in any endeavors I pursue in STEM, specifically digital media. This scholarship will enable me to access higher education and resources that are crucial for professional development. Secondly, I vow to prioritize my physical and mental well-being. A healthy body and mind are the foundations of a fulfilling life. Watching my family battle various aliments has driven me to maintain my health and seek methods to avoid diseases with hereditary factors. With the support of this scholarship, I can focus on my studies without the added stress of financial burdens, thereby contributing to a balanced and healthy lifestyle. The third thing I will commit to is building and nurturing strong relationships with family, friends, and mentors. These connections provide emotional support, a diverse perspectives, and opportunities for collaboration. By investing in these relationships now, I can build a strong support system and create a network that will add value to my life. I often seek their guidance and will continue to as I get older. The scholarship will afford me the time and resources to cultivate these important bonds while pursuing my academic goals at Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, Georgia. In terms of my financial circumstances, this scholarship would alleviate the financial strain on my family and allow me to pursue my dreams without the constant worry of accumulating debt. By receiving this scholarship, I will be able to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities without seeking a part-time job during my time outside of class. It will also provide me with the opportunity to access invaluable resources, and develop the knowledge necessary to achieve my bachelor's degree. In essence, this scholarship is not just an investment in my education, but an investment in the future version of myself that I aspire to be. I envision a future where I can give back to my community and inspire others who are in similar situations in my community. My experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and the power of education to transform lives. With the financial support provided by this scholarship, I will have the means to pursue my academic aspirations without compromise. This will allow me to focus on excelling in my studies and make meaningful contributions to the digital media field.
    Nintendo Super Fan Scholarship
    For me, it has to be "Mario Kart." There's something undeniably thrilling about the races and the unpredictable nature of the power-ups. One particular memory stands out vividly. It was a rainy saturday afternoon, my cousins and I had gathered in the living room at our grandparent's house. The sound of rain pattering on the windows providing a cozy backdrop to our gaming session. We decided to play "Mario Kart: Double Dash" on the GameCube, a classic that never fails to be entertaining. We chose our favorite characters. My character was always Yoshi and my favorite stage was the Rainbow Road track. The race was intense, with each of us trying to outmaneuver the other, using every trick and shortcut we knew. As the final lap approached, I found myself neck and neck with my cousin in first place. Just as we were about to cross the finish line, I managed to grab a red shell and launch it at him. The shell hit him, sending his kart spinning off the track. I could hear his exasperated shout of disbelief, mixed with laughter, as I sped past him to claim victory. The room erupted in cheers and good-natured teasing, and we spent the next few hours recounting the race and challenging each other to rematches. That moment encapsulated everything I love about co-op gaming: the laughter, the friendly competition, and the shared joy of a fierce race. "Mario Kart" became more than just a game; it was a way to connect and create lasting memories with the people I cared about. Gaming has a unique way of bringing people together, transcending age and even skill levels. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a total newbie; the joy of playing and sharing those experiences is universal. And while the graphics and technology might evolve, the essence of what makes these moments special remains unchanged.
    John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
    My goal is to earn a degree in digital media and pursue a career in the gaming industry. Technology and gaming peaked my interest at a young age. As a child, I always knew that this would be my career path. I inherited my love for gaming and technology from my parents. My father is an avid gamer and my mother earned a degree in Information Technology. The exposure to both directed my path. I have explored several colleges and universities offering degrees in digital media or related majors such as gaming design and animation. The top university of my choice was Full Sail University in Winterpark, Florida. I attended their orientation and was absolutely enamored with the possibilities at this university. Unfortunately due to financial circumstances of paying out of state tuition, renting apartment and other miscellaneous costs, I was unable to attend. Although devastated, I sought out schools in my state that offered programs and degrees in the related field. Upon my search, I found Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, Georgia. This college not only offered my major of choice but was also affordable and provided an intimate classroom setting that I prefer. I am currently enrolled at Georgia Gwinnett College majoring in Information Technology with a focus on Digital Media. I intend to build a strong foundation by taking courses that cover both the technical and creative sides of digital media. However, the path to higher education has not been without its obstacles. Navigating the complexities of college applications, financial aid, and academic expectations was daunting. Having to alter my university choice due to financial hardship caused me to miss a semester in school. I felt like giving up during this time. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain, but I sought support from family, church, teachers, and community organizations that provided guidance and encouragement. Their belief in my potential helped me overcome these challenges and continue striving for my goals. During my tenure as a student, I have been exploring scholarships, grants, and loans to support your educational journey, as many institutions offer tailored financial aid. Although, I've been unsuccessful in obtaining a scholarship, I will continue to apply and seek opportunities to support my education. Financial assistance has been crucial in my academic journey. Grants have alleviated the financial burden on my family, allowing me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. Obtaining this scholarship will be a significant milestone in my academic path. It will not only help me cover tuition and other expenses but also enable me to continue my involvement in professional development activities. With this support, I am confident that I will be able to achieve my goals and contribute positively to society, inspiring other students with similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams. Overcoming obstacles through resilience and support has taught me the value of perseverance and community. Financial assistance has been a lifeline, and this scholarship will be instrumental in helping me reach my full potential.
    Grandmaster Nam K Hyong Scholarship
    My goal is to earn a degree in digital media and pursue a career in the gaming industry. Technology and gaming peaked my interest at a young age. As a child, I always knew that this would be my career path. I inherited my love for gaming and technology from my parents. My father is an avid gamer and my mother earned a degree in Information Technology. The exposure to both directed my path. I have explored several colleges and universities offering degrees in digital media or related majors such as gaming design and animation. The top university of my choice was Full Sail University in Winterpark, Florida. I attended their orientation and was absolutely enamored with the possibilities at this university. Unfortunately due to financial circumstances of paying out of state tuition, renting apartment and other miscellaneous costs, I was unable to attend. Although devastated, I sought out schools in my state that offered programs and degrees in the related field. Upon my search, I found Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, Georgia. This college not only offered my major of choice but was also affordable and provided an intimate classroom setting that I prefer. I am currently enrolled at Georgia Gwinnett College majoring in Information Technology with a focus on Digital Media. I intend to build a strong foundation by taking courses that cover both the technical and creative sides of digital media. I also will be networking with professionals in the field and participating in internships as they become available. This will help me in gaining real-world experience and insights. Additionally, I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in gaming technology to ensure my skills remain relevant and competitive. Along the way, I plan to immerse myself in various aspects of game design, from storytelling and character creation to coding and level design. I am particularly excited about the potential to blend cutting-edge technology with creative artistry to craft immersive, engaging experiences that captivate players. I will need to master digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro, or Maya through college course and seek additional opportunities like workshops to gain experience. Ultimately, I envision creating games that not only entertain but also inspire and connect people from all walks of life. Through dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for the gaming industry, I am confident that I can turn my dreams into reality and contribute meaningfully to this field. Being part of a community that shares this passion will be essential. I've connected with other students in the digital media program at my school. We share similar interests and goals. It's so welcoming to find similarities amongst my peers. It drives me to discover more avenues of interests and make meaningful connections. I look forward to attending gaming conventions (DreamCon, Momocon), joining online forums, and collaborating on projects with fellow gamers. I plan to gain practical experience through internships that will allow me to connect with industry professionals directly. These interactions will not only provide inspiration but also offer invaluable feedback and perspectives that can enhance my work. Moreover, I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment within the gaming industry. By advocating for diverse representation and accessibility in game design, I hope to create experiences that resonate with a broader audience and make gaming a more welcoming space for everyone. However, the path to higher education has not been without its obstacles. Navigating the complexities of college applications, financial aid, and academic expectations was daunting. Having to alter my university choice due to financial hardship caused me to miss a semester in school. I felt like giving up during this time. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain, but I sought support from family, church, teachers, and community organizations that provided guidance and encouragement. Their belief in my potential helped me overcome these challenges and continue striving for my goals. During my tenure as a student, I have been exploring scholarships, grants, and loans to support your educational journey, as many institutions offer tailored financial aid. Although, I've been unsuccessful in obtaining a scholarship, I will continue to apply and seek opportunities to support my education. Financial assistance has been crucial in my academic journey. Grants have alleviated the financial burden on my family, allowing me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. Again, I am interested in opportunities to participate in internships, research projects, and leadership programs that can enriched my educational experience and prepare me for my future career. Obtaining this scholarship will be a significant milestone in my academic path. It will not only help me cover tuition and other expenses but also enable me to continue my involvement in professional development activities. With this support, I am confident that I will be able to achieve my goals and contribute positively to society, inspiring other students with similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams. Overcoming obstacles through resilience and support has taught me the value of perseverance and community. Financial assistance has been a lifeline, and this scholarship will be instrumental in helping me reach my full potential and make a lasting impact in my community and beyond. Once I graduate and obtain a career in the field, I plan to share my expertise with newcomers through mentoring, teaching or creating resources available to underprivileged communities. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to learn from both successes and challenges. With determination and a clear vision, I believe I can make a significant impact in the field of digital media and gaming, bringing joy and inspiration to gamers around the globe.
    Schmid Memorial Scholarship
    My goal is to earn a degree in digital media and pursue a career in the gaming industry. Technology and gaming peaked my interest at a young age. As a child, I always knew that this would be my career path. I inherited my love for gaming and technology from my parents. My father is an avid gamer and my mother earned a degree in Information Technology. The exposure to both directed my path. I have explored several colleges and universities offering degrees in digital media or related majors such as gaming design and animation. The top university of my choice was Full Sail University in Winterpark, Florida. I attended their orientation and was absolutely enamored with the possibilities at this university. Unfortunately due to financial circumstances of paying out of state tuition, renting apartment and other miscellaneous costs, I was unable to attend. Although devastated, I sought out schools in my state that offered programs and degrees in the related field. Upon my search, I found Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, Georgia. This college not only offered my major of choice but was also affordable and provided an intimate classroom setting that I prefer. I am currently enrolled at Georgia Gwinnett College majoring in Information Technology with a focus on Digital Media. I intend to build a strong foundation by taking courses that cover both the technical and creative sides of digital media. However, the path to higher education has not been without its obstacles. Navigating the complexities of college applications, financial aid, and academic expectations was daunting. Having to alter my university choice due to financial hardship caused me to miss a semester in school. I felt like giving up during this time. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain, but I sought support from family, church, teachers, and community organizations that provided guidance and encouragement. Their belief in my potential helped me overcome these challenges and continue striving for my goals. During my tenure as a student, I have been exploring scholarships, grants, and loans to support your educational journey, as many institutions offer tailored financial aid. Although, I've been unsuccessful in obtaining a scholarship, I will continue to apply and seek opportunities to support my education. Financial assistance has been crucial in my academic journey. Grants have alleviated the financial burden on my family, allowing me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. Obtaining this scholarship will be a significant milestone in my academic path. It will not only help me cover tuition and other expenses but also enable me to continue my involvement in professional development activities. With this support, I am confident that I will be able to achieve my goals and contribute positively to society, inspiring other students with similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams. Overcoming obstacles through resilience and support has taught me the value of perseverance and community. Financial assistance has been a lifeline, and this scholarship will be instrumental in helping me reach my full potential.
    Heal Our World Software Scholarship
    Innovative software can play a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges for individuals with autism by creating tailored support systems that cater to their unique needs. One of the primary ways software can help is by enhancing communication skills through apps designed to facilitate non-verbal interactions, such as picture exchange communication systems (PECS) or speech-generating devices. These tools can empower individuals with autism to express themselves more effectively, fostering greater inclusion in social and educational settings. Software can provide personalized learning experiences that adapt to the individual’s pace and learning style. Educational platforms can offer interactive, gamified lessons that keep users engaged while teaching essential life skills and academic subjects. This customized approach can help bridge the gap in traditional education systems, ensuring that people with autism receive the support they need to thrive. My brother was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. At the time, he was considered non-verbal and inconsistently spoke approximately 20 words. We struggled to understand his need as verbal communication wasn't an option. Our family had limited knowledge on the disorder. However, my mother was determined to find help for my brother Ian. Our mother enrolled Ian into Applied Behavior Analysis and speech therapy. We noticed improvement almost instantly. Eventually, my family used different techniques that we adapted from his therapy sessions such as sign language and picture cards. With years of therapy, his speech and comprehension himproved tremendously. Although he still has limited verbal ability, he is able to communicate with without using sign language or photos. While his journey may differ from other individuals living with this disorder, believe that communication software would have been helpful during the years that he struggled with communication. Software can provide personalized learning experiences that adapt to the individual’s pace and learning style. Educational platforms can offer interactive, gamified lessons that keep users engaged while teaching essential life skills and academic subjects. This customized approach can help bridge the gap in traditional education systems, ensuring that people with autism receive the support they need to thrive. In terms of community growth, innovative software can promote inclusivity by raising awareness and understanding of autism. I believe that VR experiences, for example can simulate the sensory experiences of individuals with autism and better accommodate their peers. Social networking platforms tailored for neurodivergent individuals can also provide safe spaces for sharing experiences and building supportive communities to prevent bullying and promote acceptance.
    Brandon Repola Memorial Scholarship
    My goal is to earn a degree in digital media and pursue a career in the gaming industry. Technology and gaming peaked my interest at a young age. As a child, I always knew that this would be my career path. I inherited my love for gaming and technology from my parents. My father is an avid gamer and my mother earned a degree in Information Technology. The exposure to both directed my path. Along the way, I plan to immerse myself in various aspects of game design, from storytelling and character creation to coding and level design. I am particularly excited about the potential to blend cutting-edge technology with creative artistry to craft immersive, engaging experiences that captivate players. To achieve this, I am currently enrolled at Georgia Gwinnett College majoring in Information Technology with a focus on Digital Media. I intend to build a strong foundation by taking courses that cover both the technical and creative sides of digital media. I also will be networking with professionals in the field and participating in internships as they become available. This will help me in gaining real-world experience and insights. Additionally, I aim to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in gaming technology to ensure my skills remain relevant and competitive. Ultimately, I envision creating games that not only entertain but also inspire and connect people from all walks of life. Through dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for the gaming industry, I am confident that I can turn my dreams into reality and contribute meaningfully to this field. Being part of a community that shares this passion will be essential. I look forward to attending gaming conventions (DreamCon), joining online forums, and collaborating on projects with fellow gamers. These interactions will not only provide inspiration but also offer invaluable feedback and perspectives that can enhance my work. Moreover, I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment within the gaming industry. By advocating for diverse representation and accessibility in game design, I hope to create experiences that resonate with a broader audience and make gaming a more welcoming space for everyone. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to learn from both successes and challenges. With determination and a clear vision, I believe I can make a significant impact in the world of digital media and gaming, bringing joy and inspiration to players around the globe.
    Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship
    Anime and manga have been an integral part of my life, shaping my worldview and igniting my passion for art. As a dedicated enthusiast, I have embraced the unique storytelling, captivating characters, and boundless creativity that these mediums offer. Over the years, this influence has been profound, leading me to realize that my artistic skills hold the potential to revolutionize the way we perceive and interact with art. The world of anime and manga has gifted me with a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. Through the fantastical worlds and relatable characters, I have learned valuable life lessons about perseverance, friendship, and self-discovery. These stories have encouraged me to explore my own creativity and artistic expression. As I delved deeper into drawing, painting, and digital art, I found solace and excitement in creating visual narratives that resonate with others. The powerful impact of anime and manga on my life has inspired me to share my artistic voice with the world, using my talents to inspire and touch the hearts of others. After graduation, I plan to use my artistic skills to be an innovator in the field of visual storytelling. I aspire to merge the captivating storytelling elements of anime and manga with modern technology and interactive mediums. By blending traditional art techniques with digital innovation, I aim to create immersive experiences that bring stories to life like never before. Whether through augmented reality, interactive installations, or web-based experiences, I want to push the boundaries of what art can achieve and engage audiences on a deeper level. What sets my art apart is the fusion of cultures and artistic influences that have shaped my identity. Growing up in a multicultural environment, I have been exposed to diverse art forms, traditional crafts, and folklore from different parts of the world. This multicultural background has influenced my artistic style, allowing me to infuse my creations with a sense of universality and inclusivity. My art draws inspiration from both Western and Eastern artistic traditions, resulting in a unique blend of aesthetics that appeals to a wide range of audiences. Moreover, I strive to imbue my art with a strong emphasis on emotions and storytelling. I believe that art should evoke feelings, challenge perceptions, and encourage introspection. By leveraging the lessons learned from anime and manga, I aim to create characters that are relatable and multidimensional, resonating with viewers on a personal level. Through my art, I want to spark conversations, promote empathy, and inspire positive change in society. In conclusion, anime and manga have left an indelible mark on my life, fueling my passion for art and storytelling. As I embark on my journey after graduation, I am determined to be an innovative force in the world of visual arts. My multicultural background and dedication to emotionally impactful storytelling set my art apart, and I aim to use these qualities to create groundbreaking and transformative art experiences for audiences around the globe. Through my artistic endeavors, I hope to honor the profound influence of anime and manga while leaving a lasting legacy of my own in the world of art.