Shattering the Glass by Yasmine

Shattering the Glass by Yasmine - May 2023 Scholarship Essay

Three percent. A world fueled by digital revolutions and technological breakthroughs.
3%. America, the forefront of groundbreaking inventions and technological advancements that have transformed the world. 3%. A country known for being the hub of modern innovation in a technological landscape. 3%: the number of Black women that occupy the nation's computer related jobs. A minuscule fraction, a staggering statistic, a disappointing piece of data all caused by the theoretical glass ceiling every young woman despises.

Black women are the most educated group in the nation, the embodiment of resilience and untapped potential, yet we only make up 3%? How is it possible that in a country that put a man on the moon we continue to let this seismic inequality persist? How can we consider ourselves a country that is built on the notion of fierce determination and unwavering spirit yet we're unwilling to rewrite a narrative? No. We are Trailblazers. We defy stereotypes. We knock down systemic barriers with sledgehammers. It's time we remember who we are and put the gears of change into motion because glass ceilings look better in architecture, not in professions.

I'm pursuing a computer science degree as a queer, Black woman because it is my job to continue to pave the way for individuals like myself. Individuals that come from underprivileged communities, underprivileged families. I will be the second person in my family to ever attend and graduate from college. It took a village to get here, and it will take a village to continue breaking down the barriers that prevent greatness. 10 years from now I don't want people to just see me for my net worth but for the knowledge I gained to better the lives of people, especially those in under-deserved communities like my own. I am constantly reinventing myself because I strive to be the absolute best through my compassion and level headedness. Being a woman in STEM fuels my passions which will lead me to making groundbreaking innovations. Let’s be honest, we all know it's time to put the femme in STEM.