Lynn Davis Scholarship Personal Statement – Lawson Higgins (Mountain Heritage High School, Burnsville, NC)
Growing up in the rural town of Burnsville, NC, I have developed a deep connection to my community. I want to return after college to improve, rebuild, and restore my hometown, particularly by addressing the shortage of affordable housing and improving infrastructure. My interest in math and problem-solving has led me to pursue engineering, where I can apply accuracy and sustainability to design and construction.
In high school, I followed a Drafting and Design Pathway, taking courses at Mountain Heritage High and Mayland Community College. Classes in drafting, core construction, and calculus strengthened my foundation and deepened my interest in engineering. I also developed an appreciation for environmental science, realizing the importance of sustainable design in protecting ecological systems. These experiences have shaped my decision to pursue Civil or Environmental Engineering, as both fields align with my goal of rebuilding and improving my community.
My passion for engineering intensified after Hurricane Helene devastated Yancey County in September 2024. The storm brought 31 inches of rain and 75 mph wind gusts, wiping out homes, roads, water systems, and communication infrastructure. My favorite swimming holes and fishing ponds were forever changed. For weeks, my community focused solely on survival—ensuring people had shelter, food, and basic utilities. My parents and I volunteered at the Glen Raven distribution center, helping those most affected. Many families could only reach the center by ATV.
One of my proudest moments was working with the local “Feed-A-Child” program. Recognizing that many students lacked food security after the storm, I coordinated the transfer of surplus supplies from Glen Raven to restock their inventory. Knowing I helped my peers in such a difficult time reinforced my desire to use my skills to serve my community.
Despite the hardship, Helene revealed the resilience of Yancey County. Utility workers, construction crews, and volunteers from across the country came to help us rebuild. Their work inspired me and solidified my goal to become an engineer. I want to design roads, bridges, water treatment systems, and sustainable housing to ensure my town is stronger and more prepared for future challenges.
This scholarship is crucial to my college plans. I want to focus on my studies without the financial burden of tuition or the need to work while in school. My goal is to maintain the high academic standards I have set for myself while gaining the knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact. I also want to ease the financial strain on my parents, who have always encouraged me to work hard and strive for excellence.
After earning my degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering, I will return to Burnsville to help rebuild and modernize my community. I want to create sustainable, affordable housing and improve infrastructure to protect our town from future disasters. My education will equip me to make a difference, ensuring that Yancey County remains a thriving place for generations to come.