Why Choose Francis by Francis

Why Choose Francis by Francis - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

This month, I will begin studying towards my bachelor’s degree in computer science within Penn State’s esteemed College of Engineering. I am super proud of my admittance, given the college received nearly 4x the number of applicants this year during the present economic recession.
Technology has truly become a necessary, versatile and critical part of every aspect of the modern world - from prescription refills to building businesses to military weapon design and more. I am confident that I’ve chosen a field that promises to be rewarding and impactful. I really enjoy the ability to work nontraditional hours within the technology field, fully knowing that my most creative hours are late at night.
In addition, already hoping to get a leg-up on career options, I completed trade school for cybersecurity while achieving my high school diploma. With multiple Cisco certifications, an internship on cutting-edge DNA research, and intelligence exposure through federal events, I hope to continue growing my knowledge of the ways my skills can contribute to a healthy and safe society.

I strongly believe that I can positively influence my community in a multitude of ways, including assisting small businesses with branding, scaling and growing their online presence; helping medical services reach those who need it most; assisting elders with securing their financial data; and/or creating custom-made prosthetics to improve the quality of life for those with impairments. The options are truly endless.

What distinguishes me from other students applying for this scholarship is my ability to genuinely connect with new people. My family has moved seven different times within the span of my K-12 education. Each time we moved to a new place, I got the chance to meet an entirely new group of people with extremely different backgrounds, and I loved it. I've learned to find common ground and build relationships with people who don't necessarily think or live like I do. One of the biggest reasons I’ve chosen to attend Penn State is because of its alumni network being the largest in the world. Merely attending Penn State plus the exposure to new ways to use my degree, will greatly expand my own community. With these new connections, I hope to continue to bring people together and tackle bigger issues affecting our respective areas. Computers are a means to connect communities worldwide. However, a resource is only as valuable as you make it, which is why it is so important for me to pursue my degree in computer science and better understand how to utilize my talents. In closing, I believe my open mind and adaptable personality will allow me to utilize my degree to better the community.