By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS | Adapted from Alabama A&M University
Alabama A&M University sophomore Jhaylin Taylor has earned a $75,000 scholarship and a Toyota internship opportunity, joining five STEM scholars as one of 10 recipients of the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Fellows Scholarship.
The computer science major from Phenix City will receive $25,000 annually for three years. Her Toyota internship begins in summer 2027 in Plano, Texas.
“This award is a testimony of my faith in the Lord and a tribute to my family, who told me to never give up on myself,” Taylor said.
Encouraged by her mother to apply, Taylor advanced through a national selection process that included interviews, a pitch competition, and technology challenges at Toyota’s North American headquarters.
A first-generation college student from a military family, Taylor expects to graduate in fall 2028 and pursue cybersecurity or software engineering.
She also helps classmates pursue opportunities. As a Student Government Association senator, Taylor created the Engineering Opportunity Hub to connect students with scholarships, internships, fellowships, and careers. She serves as community engagement chair for Girls Who Code and mentors students through AAMU’s Honors Program.