FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hello! My name is Sydney Wynn. I am a proud graduate of Elizabeth Seton High School in Bladensburg,
Maryland, where I maintained above a 4.0-grade point average and was elected Class President all four years. I also played volleyball and participated in Theater Club, Ecology Club, and I was a tutor for the National Honor Society. My passion for STEM led me to take advantage of two unique programs my high school offered: Learning in Engineering and Design, and Pre-Pharmacy Technician. This led to my recent Maryland State Board of Pharmacy Technician certification and a great summer job!
Growing up in the Washington Metropolitan area, my mother helped to cultivate my love for science. I have spent each summer in STEM-related camps. Last summer, I participated in a Scientific Research and Design program at Duke University, where I studied the decline in bee pollinators. This experience opened my eyes to the world of research. It confirmed my interest in biology, with an ecology focus.
I am excited to begin my college career at "The Mecca," Howard University. I can't wait to meet new friends and live new experiences while treasuring each moment.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
The beauties of nature have always piqued my interest. As an environmental enthusiast, I am always searching for opportunities to scratch my curiosity and find the answers to questions about the harmful effects of climate change. I am concerned about how global warming affects the balance of nature, causing these warmer and shorter winters and contributing to many human health issues.
I am excited to begin my studies this fall to become an environmental research scientist focusing on policy. Reading about inequitable environmental issues like those in Flint, Michigan, or Jackson, Mississippi, upsets me. But it also ignites my fire to do something about it. As an environmental scientist, I will advocate, educate and communicate how we can ensure our Earth is safe for all, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, for future generations.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
The FOSSI Scholarship is a big deal! When I weighed my options and decided to attend an HBCU, I knew I would have to actively search for additional scholarships to make my dreams come true. I will never forget receiving the call from FOSSI to tell me I won the scholarship! Receiving the FOSSI scholarship not only gives me the financial support needed to attend Howard University, but it also gives me coaching, mentoring, and support, which you simply cannot put a price tag on.
As I use every opportunity as a learning experience, working with a STEM mentor will be invaluable. As a future environmental scientist, my mentor can guide me and help narrow my focus while providing direction for my future career. My mentor can also bridge networking opportunities that may lead to internships and future career opportunities.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
My mother is my biggest role model. She has pushed me to excel in all areas, leading me to participate in many leadership and service activities, and graduate with high academic honors. Preparing for college, she continued to provide me with everything she possibly could. I greatly appreciate her efforts with helping with college applications, attending virtual and in-person college visits with me, and spending countless hours helping me search for scholarships in order to close the financial gap. I appreciate her beyond measure. Without her continuous support, I would not be where I am today.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years, I will have completed my doctoral degree and can definitely see myself working as an environmental scientist with a focus on policy for the Environmental Protection Agency. While I plan to be impactful in my career, I also want to give back to other students and serve as a FOSSI mentor to help support college students through their educational journey and to prepare them for their future careers.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
In my free time, I love reading mysteries, hanging out with my friends, and going to musicals and concerts. I also love music and listening to different artists, from Billie Eilish to Frank Ocean to SZA and, of course, Beyoncé. I also enjoy swimming, shopping, and baking sweet treats for my family and friends.
With a last name at the end of the alphabet and sometimes the very last one called, it was not always fun. But, as I could not change it, I learned to use it to my advantage. When I ran for class president in high school, my slogan was “Vote Sydney for the Wynn.” It helped me to be elected all four years! I was also proud to be able to lead the turning of the graduation tassel for my class after my name was called, of course, last! I have learned that being last is not so bad after all.
Hear more from Sydney about why attending an HBCU is important to her.
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