Univar Solutions is proud to support the advancement of STEM education, diversity, and inclusion in partnership with FOSSI and we’re excited to introduce you to Saiyd Harvin. Read on to learn more about how Saiyd is “developing his love for #STEM more and more” in his first year of college, what the $40,000 scholarship means to him, and his STEM role models.
Univar Solutions: Where are you attending college?
Saiyd: I attend Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, which is actually the rival to my mother’s Alma Mater, Wilberforce University. I am proud to be the second generation in my family to attend college.
Univar Solutions: Do you have any hidden talents?
Saiyd: I love sports and lettered three times in high school for football, wrestling and track and field. My senior year, I was the football All-Star for the East versus West 22 year and received an honorable mention for first team offense. And, in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD), I was the 175 pound weight class city wrestling champion and outdoor city champion in the 400m.
Univar Solutions: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
Saiyd: There have been many, but there are two that I’d like to highlight. My high school and college algebra professor, Mr. Kurtz, inspired my joy for math with his energy and accepting learning environment. He instilled in us that though math is hard, it is not impossible and that any of us could do it—or anything—we put our minds to. My mom has been an incredible support system and role model, encouraging me to never give up and to work for the life I want.
Univar Solutions: What do you like to do in your free time?
Saiyd: I love to do community service, help others and make their day a little easier and brighter. I’ve packed boxes at the food bank, helped out at HBCU college fairs, and participated in my high school's mentor program as a big brother to our adopted elementary school.
Univar Solutions: How is your first year of college going?
Saiyd: I’m absorbing all of the new experiences of college life as fast as they come at me and continuing to develop my love for STEM more and more. STEM is so interesting because it’s forever expanding, because technology as we know it is also expanding. There are so many inventions and new innovations that continue to be created to influence this growing industry. I’m hooked.
Univar Solutions: Why do you want to pursue a career in STEM?
Saiyd: So many reasons. It started with an interest and passion for anything technological, which led to my love of computerized systems and software development. Now there is a profound love for me to set up the new age of computer systems and software to further our development in the technological world.
Univar Solutions: Why is the FOSSI Scholarship important to you?
Saiyd: Again, so many reasons. The STEM industry is a gateway to opportunities and the scholarship removes some of the financial stresses as I adjust to college life and classes.
Univar Solutions: What do you do for fun?
Saiyd: I love science fiction shows like Stranger Things, my favorite show is Rick and Morty. I also enjoy playing video games with my friends, especially For Honor.
Univar Solutions: What is your ultimate goal?
Saiyd: Financial freedom through a career in computer systems and software.