Hi, my name is Majesty Whitaker-Hicks. I am doing great! I am thrilled to have completed my Associate’s degree in Healthcare Management at Chattahoochee Technical College at the age of 15 in December 2023. However, I am also feeling a bit nervous as I prepare to return to school and pursue my bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy at Middle Georgia State University.
STEAMsport has had a tremendous impact on my life. Personally, the experience has been nothing short of amazing, allowing me to forge lasting connections and create cherished memories. Moreover, I have gained unique skills and abilities that are often not attained by most individuals over their lifetime. The thrill of competing and achieving accolades, particularly in robotics and First Lego League, has been an absolute delight.
STEAMsport has had a tremendous impact on my life. Personally, the experience has been nothing short of amazing, allowing me to forge lasting connections and create cherished memories.
STEAMsport has had a tremendous impact on my life. Personally, the experience has been nothing short of amazing, allowing me to forge lasting connections and create cherished memories. Moreover, I have gained unique skills and abilities that are often not attained by most individuals over their lifetime. The thrill of competing and achieving awards, particularly in SeaPearch Underwater Robotics, has been an absolute delight.
Through my involvement in STEAMsport, I have gained valuable skills such as coding robots, HTML, and a foundational understanding of engineering, among other STEAM-related activities. These skills have not only allowed me to skip four grades and participate in the BDPA IT Research program but have also prepared me for practical applications in my personal life. Initially, I may not have fully grasped the practicality of these skills, but as I began applying them, I realized the immense value they hold. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to participate in STEAMsport and all that it has offered me.
One of the most significant benefits I obtained from my involvement in STEAMsport was the opportunity to connect with the individuals who oversee the program. This connection holds tremendous importance to me as it is something I would not have been able to acquire elsewhere. Additionally, STEAMsport offers invaluable networking opportunities at such a young age, giving me a head start in building professional relationships. Moreover, through my participation in STEAMsport, I have cultivated the courage to engage in public speaking events not only within my church and schools but also in various extracurricular activities. This newfound confidence has been instrumental in my personal growth.
I embarked on my STEAMsport journey at the tender age of six, alongside my older teenage brothers. Through this program, I received invaluable tutoring that significantly accelerated my academic progress. I could have never envisioned that STEAMsport would play such an important role in my educational journey, enabling me to graduate from high school at the age of 13. The changes I experienced extend beyond the typical maturation that occurs during this time period, and it is truly remarkable to witness the transformative impact of STEAMsport on my life.
When it comes to STEAMsport, pinpointing my most enjoyable experience is a challenging task as two moments stand out. Firstly, competing in robot competitions with my friends brought great joy and satisfaction. It was a thrilling experience to collaborate, strategize, and witness the culmination of our hard work during these competitions. Additionally, attending the Annual BDPA Convention and visiting the Main Event are highlights. This event provided a fantastic opportunity to meet new people who shared a passion for STEAM, forge new connections, and create unforgettable memories. Both of these experiences hold a special place in my heart, and it is difficult to choose one over the other.
There may be moments when participating in non-mandatory programs seems insignificant in the present. However, it is crucial to understand that the experiences, skills, and memories acquired through these endeavors will undeniably hold great value in the future.
To future STEAMsport students, my advice is to approach your endeavors with dedication and effort. Be prepared to put in the work to achieve your goals. However, it is equally important to embrace the idea of having an incredible amount of fun throughout your journey. Balancing hard work with enjoyment will not only make the experience more fulfilling but also foster a genuine passion for STEAM.
We realize that STEAM programming and competitions are extremely costly and many of our families can’t afford to pay. This does not stop our mission of ensuring children from underserved communities have the same opportunities to explore the wonderful world of STEAM as families who have the ability to pay for such engagement.
Please help us continue to provide these much-needed services for free by donating to our cause. Equality Begins With Education!!