FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Laila Wood. I am a recent graduate of the Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology where I ranked among the top five percent of my graduating class, with a 4.72 GPA. I have taken a rigorous STEM course load with twelve Advanced Placement courses, and I pride myself on being a well-rounded student-athlete. In addition to my academic achievements, I am a four-year varsity athlete, competitive softball player, and I've spent several years as an award-winning competitive gymnast. Becoming so active in sports allowed my love for research to grow. After suffering a season-ending injury, I used my research skills to develop an ultrasonic knee brace designed to decrease injury recovery time. At Tuskegee, I plan on majoring in chemistry, playing softball, and conducting more research.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
Since elementary school, I've heard the word STEM on multiple different occasions. I was always told what the acronym stood for, yet never the true significance of it. I soon learned that some of the most important jobs being done in the world right now are somehow STEM-related. When thinking about the career I would like to pursue, I think about how I could make a difference in the world. STEM is important because it surrounds us. Science and math are in almost everything, along with technology which is continuously expanding and developing into our lives. Engineering is seen in the basic designs of our roads, yet goes as far as tackling the challenges of changing global weather. My passion for STEM grows from its impact. Being in a STEM-related career is taking a part in changing the world.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- In my free time, I enjoy dressing up and taking pictures for my social media.
- I value spending time with the ones I love and getting to know new people.
- I was a competitive gymnast for several years which built my love for being a part of a team.
- Playing softball has been a very crucial part of my life, playing in tournaments and participating in practices since I was three years old. I have decided to keep softball in my life, as I will continue to play at the next level at Tuskegee University.
Hear more from Laila about why attending an HBCU is important to her.
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