March 25, 2024
Dear North Thurston Education Foundation, Lewis R. Hawthorne, and Edna C. Hawthorne,
If anyone had told me two years ago that I would be attending college and pursuing my dreams without worrying about finances, I would never have believed it. You gave me the chance of a lifetime and the hope of seeing dreams come to reality, for which I am forever grateful.
Starting my first quarter at the University of Washington in 2023 marked the beginning of my academic journey. Determined to uphold the academic standards I had maintained throughout high school, I embarked on this new chapter of my education. I have faced numerous challenges throughout my college journey, gained valuable insights, and reached significant milestones.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my academic progress has been the opportunity to delve deeply into my chosen field of study. From foundational courses to advanced seminars, I have embraced the opportunity to expand my knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of key concepts and theories. Engaging with passionate professors and peers has enriched my learning experience, allowing me to explore diverse perspectives and foster critical thinking skills.
Despite the many rewards of higher education, I have also faced challenges. Balancing multiple STEM courses, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments has sometimes proved daunting. However, through careful time management and perseverance, I have been able to overcome obstacles and stay on track towards achieving my academic goals.
As an active member of the Black Student Union, African Students Association, and Africans in Medicine, I have had the opportunity to meet and connect with many amazing people who share similar experiences with me. As a member of these organizations, I Actively participated in planning and organizing events and initiatives to promote cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion on campus. I also collaborated with fellow members to facilitate discussions, workshops, and events addressing issues affecting the Black and African community.
I am also a member of A Vision for Engineering Literacy and Access (AVELA). I partner with the Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine to conduct research, create STEM workshops, and teach k-12 children from underrepresented backgrounds. This is especially important because I can give back to my community. I have also recently been elected as the Director of Fundraising for the University of Washington Engineering Without Borders chapter, and I am looking forward to serving my club to the best of my abilities. Another thing I found myself heavily involved in this year was the student body. I have been an active senator since October 2023. I took on this role because I am passionate about amplifying student voices and promoting student engagement. As a member of the General Affairs Committee, I advocate for student issues and participate in decision-making. I am currently running for the position of Director of University Affairs for the ASUW. In this role, I seek to foster meaningful engagement, influence university policies, and address student concerns effectively, ultimately contributing to a thriving and inclusive campus community.
In terms of achievements, I have been working tirelessly to maintain a strong academic record while actively participating in campus organizations and community service initiatives. Whether conducting research, organizing events, or volunteering in the community, I have sought to make the most of my time outside the classroom and contribute positively to my campus and local community. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my academic journey and pursue opportunities for growth and exploration in Biochemistry. With each new challenge and achievement, I am confident I will continue learning and evolving as a scholar and a global citizen. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me to achieve my dreams.
Sincerely,
Isatou Barrow
