FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Xavier Thompson, a very caring and compassionate young man who wants to change the trajectory of health and well-being through bioengineering. I’m an incoming freshman at Delaware State University, the son of James and Joi Thompson, the best parents in the world; and the older brother to my amazing sister, Zoë. I was born in Philadelphia and raised in both Philadelphia and in Elkins Park, PA.
I see myself contributing to innovation and sustainability by using creativity, curiosity, ingenuity, and technology to help solve medical problems and cure people in our Black communities.
I'm blessed to have been raised in a loving home and environment that embraces faith, family,
and fun. The values I've been introduced to have shaped who I am and how I will evolve. I recognize the value of loyalty, love, commitment, and curiosity. I strongly believe that these traits will mold me into a great leader and contributor to my community, society, and engineering sciences.
So far in my life, I’ve done some very cool things and I've been to some really cool places. I’m now excited to take part in this new journey as a FOSSI scholar.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
From a very young age, I was very passionate about anything that allowed me to use my creativity and imagination for a purpose. I always had compassion for others and now, many years later, I’ve figured out how to integrate compassion and creativity.
I see myself contributing to innovation and sustainability by using creativity, curiosity, ingenuity, and technology to help solve medical problems and cure people in our Black communities. This is something I’m very energized about. I believe my curiosity will help me figure out the unknowns of severe medical problems that have negatively impacted our communities.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
Bioengineering, my major and main interest, plays an important role in medical innovation. I see myself researching and creating biotech solutions, like advanced prosthetics and artificial organs, that provide opportunities for people to enjoy and prolong life.
Ultimately, I want to be a major contributor to the advancement of "medical miracles" like advancing the design and creation of artificial organs and limbs, and devices that address paralysis.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I am an anime connoisseur
- I have color blindness called protanopia
- My taste in music is very diverse (my playlists will shock you)
We invite companies not currently supporting FOSSI to build their pipeline of outstanding and diverse talent by supporting a FOSSI scholar. Learn more.