FOSSI | Meet Ariel Wilcox: 2022 FOSSI Scholar Attending North Carolina A&T State University

Meet Ariel Wilcox: 2022 FOSSI Scholar Attending North Carolina A&T State University

March 15, 2023

FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.

I was born in Blacksburg, VA, but I moved to Northern Virginia in the 7th grade and finished middle and high school there.  I am the second child and eldest daughter of my family, and I was introduced to STEM by my mother, who now works as an engineer.  

Outside of STEM, I find passion in musical activities. I've performed in dance recitals since the age of 4, and I played percussion in concert band and marching band. I have also been playing piano for several years. My other hobbies are writing fiction and styling clothes and accessories. 

FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?

At first, I was motivated to do STEM because of my mother. She herself was in STEM, and because of that I learned that there weren't many women in the STEM field. I wanted to help close that gap. As I grew into my personality, however, my motivation became more intrinsic. I realized I had a knack for spacial awareness, and a curiosity toward the mechanical aspect of things.

STEM is how I want to apply my unique perspective on the world. I am fascinated by all the inventions humanity has created, and I intend to contribute to that field of achievement throughout my career. 

FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years, I will be 27 years old. I will have likely gone through some form of graduate school and joined a design team that is focused on designing infrastructure to help the deteriorating environment. 

In the back of my mind, I would wonder if my parents were still proud of me. I'd wonder if I was doing enough to give back to society, and my worries would fade as I continue to work on whatever project I decided to embark on. 

FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.

  • I am left-handed.
  •  I have a major sweet tooth.
  • I am fond of turtles.
  • I once built a 3d puzzle based only off of the picture on the box because I had lost the instructions. 

We invite companies not currently supporting FOSSI to build their pipeline of outstanding and diverse talent by supporting a FOSSI scholar. Learn more.