FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
I'm Malik Savage, an honors graduate of Wylie High School in Wylie, Texas. During high school, I competed in debates, participated in robotics, pursued a STEM endorsement, and attende
d summer STEM programs. Both the Wylie High School newspaper and our local city paper featured me for developing a sports graphical user interface (GUI) for a company. I hold certifications in Python and computer maintenance and have supported programs that encourage teens to pursue STEM careers.
In my community, I've volunteered with non-profit organizations like Feed My Starving Children, nursing homes, and homeless shelters. I've also participated in Senior-to-Senior Mentorship, where high school seniors visit active adult daycares to build meaningful mentor-mentee relationships. My hobbies include 3D printing, programming, and developing websites and apps. I also enjoy playing chess, soccer, and running track. My passion for technology shaped my decision to major in electrical engineering with an emphasis in computer science and to pursue a master's degree in engineering. I'm excited to begin the next phase of my journey studying electrical engineering at North Carolina A&T State University.
What moment or experience sparked your love for STEM?
I've always enjoyed STEM, but the moment that truly ignited my passion happened during the COVID shutdown. In seventh grade, I started working on a magic mirror that displayed the weather and other daily information. The software skills I gained led to my first major STEM project: an Iron Man helmet. This self-motivated project combined 3D printing and programming a Raspberry Pi to bring a Jarvis-style system to life inside the helmet. After countless hours of learning and problem-solving, I finally showed it to my family. Seeing their amazement at something I'd created from scratch sparked my passion for engineering.
What did it feel like when you found out you received the FOSSI scholarship?
I was astonished and overwhelmed with joy when I learned I'd received the FOSSI scholarship. It reassured me that my hard work and dedication to STEM hadn't gone unnoticed. My parents have always taught me to work hard, do what I enjoy, and trust that everything will work out. This scholarship provides financial support that allows me to attend the college that's right for me while easing the burden on my family. Beyond that, it opens doors to networking, internships, and leadership development. I'm truly grateful and excited to engage in everything the program offers.
Who inspires you, and what have they taught you about what's possible?
My younger brother, Jaron, inspires me. His dedication to cross country and track shows that consistency leads to improvement. He trains year-round, even during the off-season, to stay fit and sharpen his performance. Watching his commitment has taught me that hard work, dedication, and consistency can help you reach your goals—whether in academics, athletics, or anything else you pursue.
What kind of impact do you hope to be making ten years from now?
In ten years, I hope to use my degrees to create technology that makes a real difference in society. Whether I'm working on space exploration or power optimization, I want my technical skills to benefit humanity. I also hope to continue encouraging future generations to pursue STEM by founding a non-profit organization dedicated to introducing STEM to people of all backgrounds.
What are some surprising or unique facts about you?
- I enjoy entrepreneurship and am always looking for opportunities to grow a business.
- My parents chose my name because it means "King".
- By age 12, I was already teaching myself programming and designing with microprocessors.
Join us in shaping the future of STEM. Discover how your company can create a lasting impact on tomorrow's leaders as a FOSSI sponsor.
FOSSI is now accepting applications for 2026. Apply by January 31, 2026.
Watch the video below to hear more from Malik about why he's excited to be a FOSSI scholar.