FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hello my name is Armon Williams from Columbia, South Carolina. I am a recent graduate of W.J. Keenan High School where I was the 2023 valedictorian. While there, I was the battalion commander of the JROTC program, senior class Vice President, and the soccer captain. In the fall, I will be attending North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University where I will be majoring in mechanical engineering and minoring in marketing.
I view this scholarship as not only an investment in myself, but also an investment in my community that I will contribute back to in the future.
I am the product of an amazing single mother (Rena Walters) and grandson of Rev. Dr. Cynthia Walters, and Otis Walters. My passion for engineering started when I was young and I assisted my grandfather with building things. My interest was later fostered by the engineering program at my school. I am grateful to be a part of this program and I'm glad I was chosen as a recipient of this scholarship.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
I am passionate about pursing a degree in STEM because I like working with machines and I, ultimately, want to build robots. Additionally, I have noticed the disparities with African Americans in STEM and I want to create programs to make it more equitable and accessible for them.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
This scholarship is important to me because it is an opportunity to make my dreams a reality without going into debt to receive a college degree. I view this scholarship as not only an investment in myself, but also an investment in my community that I will contribute back to in the future.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
My most prominent role model is my grandmother. She is a Reverend, doctor, author, and just received her second master’s degree in addition to working in Diversity and Inclusion for over 49 years. She is constantly achieving more and overcoming the obstacles placed in front her. She inspires me to follow in her footseps and to always think bigger to achieve greatness.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years, I see myself working on my PhD and starting a mechatronic engineering company.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I love to play soccer.
- I like to watch movies.
- I like reading comic books.
- I once repelled off a 40 foot tower.
Hear more from Armon about why attending an HBCU is important to him.
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