Taylor Rawlings is an honor roll senior at Glen Allen High School. She is a member of the Glen Allen Orchestra where she is a first violinist. She is also on the Varsity Cheer team, Step team, in the marching band and the Diverse Hands at Work club, to name a few.
Taylor is currently the 2020–21 Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Mid-Atlantic Regional Teen Vice President and past 2019–20 Region Teen Leadership Conference Regional Protocol Chair. Taylor is a 14 year member of the Marvelous Richmond Chapter where she has served as a Senior Teen Vice President and chair of several committees. Taylor has been the recipient of many Jack and Jill of America, Inc. awards/recognitions, including the Outstanding Leadership Award, Outstanding Volunteer Award, and the Presidential Volunteer Service Award.
Taylor is also a member of the National Society of Black Engineers, Pre-Collegiate Initiative, where she obtained her student pilots license; YMCA Shady Grove Leaders Club where she serves as Treasurer; and a Youth Leader at Faith Landmarks Ministries.
After graduation, Taylor plans to attend Howard University, major in Biology, and ultimately become an orthodontist.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
I am passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field because there’s a tremendous gap for women of color in STEM. Data indicates that women remain underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and math. In a recent census report, only 24% of women in the workforce make their living in STEM careers. Though there have been vast improvements, especially in education, systemic obstacles are still a major issue that affects African American girls.
STEM careers provide the future leaders of our world with not only money, but also power. My best subjects in school are science and math. I have also thoroughly enjoyed participating in NSBE Jr. and various engineering programs. I have always challenged myself to participate in underrepresented and underserved fields to prove to myself that I have the aptitude, ability, and confidence to succeed.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
When I received my acceptance letter from Howard on December 19, I shed a tear. I have always had an interest in attending Howard, but I felt that financially Howard was out of reach for me and my mom. I applied for several scholarships, but I had not heard a response before decision day. I stepped out on faith and enrolled at Howard. Two days later, I received a call that I was a recipient of the FOSSI scholarship. My prayers were answered.
Receiving the FOSSI scholarship is important for me because it has helped narrow the financial gap and lessen my debt, allowing me to focus on my studies to become an orthodontist. I am so looking forward to the mentorship, internship opportunities, and leadership skills that I will gain by being a part of the FOSSI community.
Fun Facts about Taylor
- I draw and paint
- I am a violinist
- I enjoy crocheting and knitting
- I am a student pilot
- I enjoy listening to R&B and Hip-Hop
- I enjoy spending time with friends and family
- I enjoy volunteering in my community
- I enjoy dancing and making Tik Toks
- I enjoy traveling
- I love trying new foods