FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
As a FOSSI scholar at an HBCU, I will pursue a chemistry career that combines my STEM skills with my interest in the beauty industry. My goal is to have a research portfolio that contributes to the creation of healthy products for people in situations where basic skin care and self-care are considered luxuries. With my rigorous academic courses, volunteerism, and athletics, I have exhibited the attributes necessary to become a scientist who works to promote a healthy community while protecting the earth's resources.
I come from a family with a legacy of service and academic excellence who encouraged me to not only pursue a challenging career, but one that gives back to my community. Civic participation is one of the core values I’ve learned in high school that has shaped me. Working as a volunteer for the Parks and Recreation department and at my local food bank taught me unique lessons beyond academics. The food bank taught me how I can help neighbors who were impacted during the pandemic. As a nature trail monitor and camp counselor, I learned to appreciate nature and help children experience the joy of the environment.
As a four-year varsity student-athlete, encouraging a teammate gave me more gratification than any athletic award could ever give me. In addition to my in-school tennis activities, I have competed in several counties and leagues. Tennis taught me an important skill which will serve me in my STEM field– being bold and embracing collaboration.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
I aspire to be a biochemist where my research will promote wellness among women of color. Underrepresented women often lack access to healthier products and have the pressure of conforming to beauty standards that negatively impact their health. Women of African descent not only endure more pressure for body modifications, they are also more likely to suffer from traction alopecia, and negative side effects of skin bleaching.
Major beauty brands have made great strides in incorporating women of color in ad campaigns and I hope to be one of the scientists who helps diversify the labs behind the development of these products. The inclusion of a diverse scientific community creates a better quality of life for underserved people. Scientists from underserved communities have a perspective on unique issues related to those populations.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
I come from a family with a legacy of service and academic excellence who encouraged me to pursue higher education. I appreciate how hard my family has worked to create the generational patterns I intend to uphold.
The FOSSI scholarship allows me the opportunity to attend my dream school, Hampton University, as a chemistry student where I hope to join the ranks of many scientists who use their platform to help underserved communities.
This FOSSI scholarship helps me achieve my goal of graduating college debt-free. I will use this opportunity to change my family legacy and to continue service in my community.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- This summer, I am working at my county nature park as a camp counselor where I teach kids to kayak, identify animals, and appreciate nature.
- In high school, I worked as a student page at my county library.
- I have played the violin since fourth grade.
- I played varsity tennis all four years of high school.