1. What do you hope to study at university?

What is your planned career

interest? How did you develop your interest in this field of study and career
path?

I've always loved technology. Even now, my parents narrate stories of how I would
endlessly stream gadget review videos. They would joke about how I was always
updated with specifications of the latest iPhone, and its release date, even though
I hadn't seen it in person. It was this drive that directed me into the digital space.
In high school, I was exposed to the basics of programming using Scratch. Later, I
went on to learn web development and other programming languages like C++ and
Python. After high school, my heart was set on pursuing Computer Science.

Upon attaining my CS degree, I plan to venture into Software Engineering,

preferably in the fintech industry (applying AI). Secondly, I would like to establish
an NGO that teaches young people how to code, this will be a way to give back to
my community. Starting up such an organization will keep youths engaged and
busy. In the long term, I plan to expand my studies by attending grad school. This
will align with my goal of becoming a college lecturer and researcher in AI.

I draw most of my inspiration from Lex Fridman, a researcher at MIT. He has done
tremendous work in areas of AI such as human-robot interaction, autonomous
vehicles, and machine learning. After seeing his LinkedIn profile, I was very
interested in the work he does in the field of AI. Determined to learn more about
his works, I have been reading through his publications, watching his YouTube
videos, and listening to his podcasts. It has been a fantastic learning experience.
My interest in AI has also been deepened by attending events like the Google
DevFest. I have been able to network and talk to real-life AI Engineers who are
revolutionizing the world with this powerful tool.
What is your strongest school subject and what do you love about it? No word
limit
Mathematics has shaped my life in all aspects, from the way I walk to how fast I
chew my food, it has been interwoven in my everyday living even though I don't
notice sometimes.

Having maintained a very high average score in all my math tests, I have greatly
fallen in love with this subject. It is more than just numbers and equations; it is the
language of the universe, revealing the underlying order and structure in
everything around us and always reassuring the rhythm of counting. The harmony,
patterns, and forms present in mathematics make it not only theoretical but also
practical, manifesting itself in various aspects of the real world.

Furthermore, I love because math is a powerful decision-making tool, providing a

framework for logical reasoning and problem-solving. It challenges me to think
critically and creatively, pushing the boundaries of my thinking with each new
problem encountered.

Despite the challenges and intricacies it presents, math continues to captivate my

interest and passion for learning. It is a subject that not only excites my intellect
but also instills discipline and perseverance. As I continue to explore its depths, I
am continually amazed by its beauty and its boundless applications, cementing my
love for it with each passing day.
Tell us about the most important academic prize or honors you have been
awarded. No word limit.
In 2018, I was awarded the Konkola Copper Mine Initiative Scholarship, which
covered my tuition fees from grade 8 to grade 9. The scholarship was as a result of
being the best-performing student, at district level, in grade 7 after sitting for the
ECZ national exam in 2017. Receiving this award imparted a passion to always give
back to the community. Knowing that there are people who are generous enough
to fund my education, I realized the importance of helping others even in the
smallest of things. To maintain the scholarship, I was encouraged to continue
working hard.

In the same year (2018), I received eight academic awards in my subjects, including
the title of the best-performing grade 8 student. Additionally, I won two awards
from science fair competitions I participated in. These awards were for the two
categories I participated in; community development and entomology. I was first
in both of them. Attaining these awards was as a result of team work and a lot of
sleepless nights trying to come up with the perfect project.

In 2019, I was again recognized as the best-performing student and received nine
other subject-based awards. That same year, I achieved a third position at the
Provincial Junior Engineers, Technicians, and Scientists Fair. Later that year, I
started gaining a lot of recognition among parents and pupils. I was privileged to
give small talks on my study habits and techniques. This inspired many pupils to
study hard.

In 2021, I was honored with the best-performing student award by the Hillcrest
Alumni. Fast forward to 2022, I received five academic awards accompanied by a
prize amount of K3500 and a shield. Knowing the importance of family, I decided
to give this prize money to my parents as a form of appreciation for the never-
ending support they had provided throughout my academic journey. Additionally,
I was nominated for the First Quantum Minerals Trident Scholarship. Though I
didn’t make it through the final round of interviews, I was honored to have been
part of those nominated because the nomination process was very competitive.
2. Apart from your planned career/study path, what else do you love to do? Tell
us about something you are passionate about and how you have explored this
passion in your life.

I am greatly passionate about graphic design. Out of all my passions, this one stands
out because it integrates creativity and technical skills. My passion for graphic
design was sparked in 2020 during the lockdown. At that time, I had returned home
from boarding school due to the closure of all schools. Feeling bored at home, I
decided to pick up my dad’s laptop and explore any app that would interest me.

Not being a fan of computer games, I decided to open Microsoft PowerPoint as it

was the app with the most pleasing icon on the task bar. After experimenting with
shapes and lines, I stumbled upon a feature that allowed me to insert pictures on
slides. This discovery fascinated me, and later, I learned how to overlay text on
images. Gradually, I began creating aesthetically pleasing graphics, although not to
perfection.

To enhance my newly discovered graphic design skills, I sought out apps that
offered professional graphic design. Fortunately, I stumbled across Canva, which
proved to be a precious resource. As I honed my skills with Canva, my work gained
recognition from others. I learned to design flyers, posters, banners, social media
adverts, and more. As more people appreciated my creative work, my passion
evolved into a side hustle. I started designing posters for local businesses such as
cake shops and cosmetic stores. Alongside my design projects, I volunteered in
planning and designing event posters, sermon ads, and award certificates for my
local church.

Driven by my passion for graphic design, I founded a small design agency called
Matrix Designs, which now boasts over 10 active clients. I also established a
company website (wazingwamugala.onrender.com) to showcase my portfolio to a
wider audience. Who knows, perhaps my future lies in the field of design.
3. The Education USA Scholars program requires commitment and follow-
through. Tell us about a time you wanted to try something new and describe how
you took action to complete your goals.

Late 2023, I set a goal to officially become a vegetarian. I knew that I was embarking
on a challenging journey that would have many hurdles along the way.
Nevertheless, I still went ahead with my plan because of the health benefits it
would bring along. As December of 2023 approached, I prepared myself for my
biggest life commitment. The festive season was a very tempting period because
every household was busy frying and roasting all kinds of meat.

The first phase of the plan was to quit eating beef. To implement this, I would not
partake of any dish that contained beef in any form. I refrained from eating food
offered at big events or large gatherings. Furthermore, I avoided parties and events
that did not offer vegetarian alternatives on the menu. To acclimate my taste buds
to my newly chosen diet, I purchased vegetarian sausages to supplement my meals.
This turned out to be costly sometimes, but through my side hustle, I was able to
afford it once in a while.

Transitioning to this new diet was a struggle, especially since I was the only one
doing it at home. Even though I had chosen this path, I didn’t want to be judgmental
in any way. I believe that everyone has the choice to it what they want. With time,
I phased out all meat in general except chicken. Whenever meat was cooked at
home, I would find alternative dishes such as eggs or soya pieces. Even though I
was eager to become a vegetarian, I didn't want to put my health in danger by not
having a balanced diet. To supplement the proteins, I was missing out on from
meat, I regularly included beans and fish in my meals as they contain a good
amount of protein.
4. What types of (non-school) books do you read in your free time? Tell us about
one of your favorite books and what it means to you.
From finance to productivity, I am drawn to reading diverse genres to suit what I
want to learn at that particular time. A blend of reading and listening to audiobooks
or podcasts helps me actively recall the content of a particular book I am reading. I
usually read books on time management, mindset, business, human behavior, and
personal finance. Examples of such books are "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and "The 48
Laws of Power."

Of all my reads, the book "Atomic Habits" by James Clear stands out. I came across
this book after watching a video by Ali Abdaal, a famous YouTuber who teaches
productivity hacks. He highly recommended it, so I decided to read it. Reading this
book was one of the best choices I have ever made. It changed the way I perceive
human behavior. As I read through the book, I could sense the amount of work and
effort the writer put into it. This book has taught me how tiny changes can yield
remarkable results. Furthermore, I have learned how we, as human beings, form
good or bad habits.

At the core of the book are four important laws that summarize how anyone can
start forming good habits and get rid of bad ones. I love this book because it's very
tactical, unlike other productivity books that focus on strange statistics and
numbers, making it hard to follow through. The writer's tone prompts the reader
to take action. In one of the chapters, James writes, "The environment is the
invisible hand that shapes human behavior." Such statements are what kept me
reading the book as I was curious to learn more. If I were told to pick five books to
carry to an island of no return, I would include this book. It's an amazing read!
5. Two great websites for learning about U.S. universities are
educationusa.state.gov & collegeboard.org. Visit one of these websites and tell
us about something you found that makes you excited about going to a U.S.
university

After exploring the College Board website, I was struck by the stark differences between the
Zambian tertiary system and the US system. One aspect that particularly stood out to me was the
variety of options available in the US, with over 4,000 universities and colleges offering diverse
programs tailored to students' needs. This diversity not only ensures access to quality education
but also allows for a more personalized academic journey that would enable me to explore my
interests.

As someone who has grown up in Zambia, where educational options are limited, the prospect
of attending a US university excites me. The extensive range of academic programs available in
the US presents a unique opportunity for discovery. Studying in the US would allow me to pursue
my interests across various majors and career paths.

The US education system is renowned for its high standards and commitment to excellence.
Faculty members are highly trained and dedicated to helping students realize their full potential.
This commitment to quality education is reflected in the state-of-the-art facilities, modern
laboratories, and well-equipped classrooms that are standard in US universities. Attending
college in the US would help me secure my future by attaining best quality education.

Financial aid is another aspect of US universities that greatly appeals to me. Many institutions
offer generous support to international students, making studying in the US more accessible and
affordable. From scholarships and grants to work-study programs and loans, there are various
options available to help cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Additionally, the vibrant and diverse international student community in the US creates a
welcoming and inclusive environment. Interacting with peers from different backgrounds and
cultures would not only enrich my academic experience but also broaden my perspectives and
worldview on life in general.
6. Why do you want to be an Education USA Scholar? What will you contribute
to our family of Scholars?

Being granted the opportunity to be an Education USA Scholar will be a life-

changing experience. From my research, the US college application process is very
demanding financially due to related costs such as SAT fees, application fees, CSS
profile fees, and many more. Being part of this program will lessen the financial
burden as I do not have to cover such costs.

As a scholar, I will have access to adequate study resources to prepare for my SAT
exams. I understand that these tests play a huge role in the US admission process.
Receiving mentorship and advice from experts will enable me to formulate a well-
rounded application profile that will not only be fit for college admissions but also
provide me with good financial aid because the cost of attendance in the US is very
high. Furthermore, I will learn essay writing that will boost my application and take
it to the next level. I will also expand on my research skills which will be very vital
when it comes to researching universities.

I want to positively contribute to the scholars' family. I want to be as cooperative

with everyone by sharing ideas and not sidelining anyone's opinion. Teamwork is a
core principle I want to implement when I am placed to work in a group. Making
everyone around me safe and free would create a conducive environment for
everyone to freely interact. I also want to contribute hard work to every task I am
given, ensuring that I help others in whatever way I can. I believe these principles
will cohesively strengthen the scholar's family.