Jewelia Taylor is a recent graduate from West Orange High School where she served as Student Council Vice President. She was an honor roll student and a member of the National Honors Society. Jewelia also played varsity soccer and was the basketball team manager/statistician at the high school. She tutored West Orange elementary students and was a party hostess at The Funplex of East Hanover. Jewelia has committed to Spelman College in Atlanta, GA where she will be majoring in Cosmetic Chemistry and minoring in business. She aspires to create her own makeup/skincare brand that exudes inclusivity while celebrating the diverse beauty of everyone, with a particular focus on empowering women of color. Jewelia's hobbies include thrifting and up-cycling clothing, baking, and spending time with her family and friends.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
From the moment I conducted my first cosmetic experiment, I knew I had stumbled upon my true passion. My intrigue with exploring led me to formulate a new concoction every week, whether it was slime, paint color mixing, sugar scrubs, lip oils, or glosses. My enthusiasm for chemistry has ignited my desire to pursue cosmetic chemistry at Spelman.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
I am honored to be a recipient of the 2024 Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) scholarship. This scholarship means more than words can express as it recognizes students who are ready to study STEM on a higher education level. As a student committed to academic excellence and community engagement, I've strived to make a lasting impact throughout my high school career. This scholarship also represents an opportunity to turn my dreams into reality. It not only eases the financial burden of pursuing higher education but also serves as a reminder of the faith and confidence FOSSI sponsors have in my academic abilities and future potential. I promise to continue to work hard, remain dedicated to my studies, and represent this scholarship with honor and integrity. FOSSI's investment in my education is invaluable and will make a positive impact on my academic and personal life.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
My maternal grandmother has had a positive influence in my life because she exemplifies the essence of hard work. My grandmother gave birth to 11 children in Cape Verde. She migrated to the US with her two eldest daughters, leaving her husband and remaining children behind to pursue the American dream. They worked long hours at a jewelry factory in Rhode Island. They saved their earnings to purchase a home and bring the rest of the family to the US. Their relentless perseverance and dedication are the true meaning of the American dream. She is the reason why my mother was able to be the first generation of college graduates. I will be the first person in my family to attend an HBCU. I will uphold high standards and carry forward her spirit of compassion, generosity and make a positive impact. I hope to keep pushing forward with the same unwavering dedication and motivation.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
I seek to develop products that are not only beneficial for a person's skin but also beneficial for the earth. I aspire to own and operate a cosmetic company that exudes inclusivity, celebrating the diverse beauty of everyone, with a particular focus on empowering women of color. I aspire to lead an innovative company that creates products that go beyond aesthetics to serve as a catalyst for building confidence, self-expression, and empowerment for people of all colors and cultures, uniting them in a shared celebration of their inner and outer beauty.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I love to collect sneakers.
- My parents and teachers refer to me as the "welcome committee" of my school.
- In my free time I shop, thrift, and up-cycle clothing.
- I have been a children's party host at Funplex for 3 years.
Hear more from Jewelia about why attending an HBCU is important to her.
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