FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by makeup. I became interested in applying makeup early on, when I was a pre-teen. I always knew I wanted makeup to be part of my career, but I wasn’t sure how exactly. During my junior year of high school, I did extensive research and discovered my dream job: becoming a cosmetic chemist. Cosmetic chemists use chemistry to create beauty products for cosmetic brands. Now, I am dedicated to studying chemistry at North Carolina A&T State University to become a cosmetic chemist and eventually own my own cosmetic company. I am also passionate about supporting underrepresented skin tones in the industry to promote inclusivity. In fact, I currently formulate some of my own products. I can’t put into words the joy I get from creating cosmetics, applying makeup, and learning everything I can about cosmetic science!
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
I am passionate about pursuing a degree in STEM because I love chemistry. I am fascinated by how chemistry explains ingredient compatibility and their unique properties. Chemistry is the science that clearly shows why things react the way they do with each other. As an aspiring cosmetic chemist, this knowledge is essential for my success in the field and for building my future company. By earning a STEM degree, I will gain hands-on experience directly related to cosmetic chemistry. This will allow me to formulate my own products and create my own cosmetic company. I also hope to inspire children who look like me to pursue degrees in STEM.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
Receiving this scholarship is very important to me because my college tuition is very expensive. Cosmetic chemists need a four-year degree, preferably in cosmetic science, chemistry, or chemical engineering, to work in the cosmetic industry. My goal is to study chemistry, but tuition is the main challenge standing in my way. Thankfully, this scholarship has greatly reduced my financial burden. It allows me to focus more on the academic, social, and emotional demands of college instead of worrying about how to pay for it. I can continue my studies at a four-year institution without the fear of having to leave due to lack of funds.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
A role model who has influenced me is my mother. She grew up in a small country neighborhood in St. Augustine, Florida. When she was a pre-teen, her father passed away, and with less income, she had to mature quickly. She always wanted a better life for herself and did not want to end up like many people in her community, where most lacked a basic high school education and worked odd jobs to get by. My mother did not have guidance through college or many life challenges, but through her determination, inner strength, and perseverance, she created the life she wanted for herself and her children. Her story inspires me to keep going through my own challenges and to never give up.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
I love this question because in ten years, I see myself as a very accomplished 27-year-old cosmetic chemist. I envision my brand and products being well known and sought after in the beauty industry. I will be contributing to a community of underrepresented skin tones in cosmetics to promote inclusivity. I also see myself inspiring young girls, especially, to pursue careers in STEM, even in male-dominated fields. Additionally, I plan to influence positive change in my community through confidence, education, financial literacy, and local politics. Ultimately, I want to have a positive impact on myself, my community, and everyone around me.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- Adopting a growth mindset was the best thing I ever did for myself.
- I have a strong passion for makeup and cosmetic formulation.
- I am a makeup artist.
- I formulate some of my own makeup and cosmetic products.
- I have an interest in singing and dancing.
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