Ashia Hawkins
Name: Ashia Hawkins
High School: Old Suwanee Christian School (Gwinnett County)
College (Current or Future): Kennesaw State University
Major/Intended Major: Computer Science
Financial Aid Program: Zell Miller Scholarship
Ashia Hawkins is a proud recipient of the Zell Miller scholarship. Enthusiastic about technology Ashia Hawkins enrolled in Kennesaw State University Bachelor in Computer Science program.
“Computer science as a major is very interesting. I enjoy learning about different ways technology can be utilized and how it functions. Right now, Kennesaw is providing various opportunities for paths within the technical field, which I am exploring to make the best decision,” said Hawkins.
Technical jobs projected to grow in 2020 include Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, Information Security Analyst, Software Engineer, Computer Research Scientist, and Data Analyst, among others. (Chad, CareerKarma.com, 2020)
Competitive and hardworking, Hawkins was a valedictorian of Old Suwanee Christian School in Gwinnett County and retained good grades throughout his school years enduring rigorous course. He also retained a perfect attendance from kindergarten into the twelfth grade. Hawkins cites his parents as his source of inspiration which encouraged him to aim high, set goals, work hard, and remain committed. “My parents have always told me I could do whatever I set my mind to and to always work hard and give your all at whatever you do."
Hawkins learned about the Zell Miller Scholarship, a merit-based scholarship, through GSFC outreach representative Hal Wilkinson who went over the steps to take to apply for scholarships and their requirements. By utilizing the Zell Miller Scholarship, Hawkins was able to take advantage of it by attending his preferred university.
Hawkins advises others who are preparing to attend college to work hard and study hard and to get ahead in testing. “Take the SAT/ACT early on around 10th or 11th grade so you have the time to improve your scores if needed. Visit colleges, apply for early admissions, and apply for any or all scholarships that are available to you.”
Hawkins's extracurricular hobbies and accomplishments include playing basketball from middle school into high school, winning a soccer championship as a goalie during senior year, being a spelling bee champion for two years straight, and being the Bible Sword Drill champion from the first grade into the fifth grade. For entertainment, Hawkins watches sports, attends movies, and enjoys building computers.
References:
Crabtree, Chad M. “Best Tech Jobs 2020: Top 20 Jobs in Tech for the Future.” Career Karma, Career Karma, 26 Feb. 2020, careerkarma.com/blog/best-tech-jobs/.