AI challenges by Alanna

AI challenges by Alanna - July 2026 Scholarship Essay

The biggest challenge that I noticed for educators after post pandemic is the use of AI. Laptops were issued in almost every school which allowed students to rely on programs that assist in critical thinking and writing. As a result, individuals are not intellectually disciplined in analyzing and processing information. They are not doing the work and they are not learning.
As an elementary teacher I will return to the fundamentals of cognitive thought. I want to decrease the amount of screen time in the classroom and use play to create, inspire, problem solve, and motivate creativity. Working at the boys and girls club has allowed me to observe the issues the children face, and I help with those gaps currently as a learning center instructor. Technology is great until it is not. Learning can be fun even when it is challenging. The beauty of the challenge is to know that you can figure it out. I recently won Miss Old gold and black at KSU. My talent portion was STEM, the platform I manage is “empowering the youth.” I performed a science experiment on stage. I later showed my students the video, the crown and experience to provoke excitement and motivation. The goal is to inspire and teach in world they understand. The kids executed the same science experiment to donors to obtain sponsorship at the annual conference that I taught. Bringing back labs and critical thinking engages students. Educators must be a real live Tik Tok where the students are a part of the skit. I provoke thinking outside of the box.
Working with children while in high school and college has provided insight to the issues and problems that the children face today. Teaching STEM classes at the Boys and Girls club has been a challenge due to technology not being used properly. The continuous interactions of platforms such as Tik Tok, Instagram, Mind craft, Fortnite, and Roblox, the children are not using cognitive thought. The demographics at the club is African American inter city youth. As I continue to work with this population, I see the need to provide more assistance. I have noticed they do not have the resources and opportunity. I currently work in community outreach and bring volunteers to help with tutoring, inspiration and mentoring. I feel connected to this population and feel I can make a difference. I am involved in several organizations on campus that work with the youth. I am a role model at work and the community. With education and knowledge that I will gain from an education degree at Kennesaw State University, I will be able to learn more techniques to reach the youth. This scholarship will allow me the opportunity to volunteer more and network with organizations along with non-profits that support education. The burden of finances will be eliminated allowing more flexibility to sharpen my craft.
Investing in my future will ultimately help the next generation after me to be a better place after I graduate. Educators are important especially those who are sincerely passionate about the field. You are not taking a chance with me you are guaranteeing, a leader, motivator, mentor and advocate for the community helping the youth.