Meet Xiwen Huang, a recipient of the alliantgroup Greater Houston Area STEaM Scholarship Program! Her remarkable academic achievements, passion for mathematics and determination to break barriers make her a shining example of the potential that lies within young women in STEM and accounting fields.
A Journey of Determination
Born in China, Xiwen immigrated to the United States with her parents when she was eight years old. The transition was far from easy. And the challenge of not knowing English made adapting even more difficult. Fortunately, Xiwen found solace in the universal language of mathematics. “While language hindered me greatly when I first immigrated to the United States, Roman numerals and operation symbols in the third-grade math classroom spoke in a tongue I understood,” she recalls.
Her love for STEM, particularly mathematics, blossomed early. “As a kid, I was super interested in STEM and more specifically mathematics. And I kept looking for opportunities that could allow me to explore these interests,” Xiwen shared. This passion propelled her to excel academically, culminating in her graduating as the valedictorian of her high school in Richmond, Texas.
Bridging Cultures and Languages
Xiwen’s story is also one of cultural integration and leadership. Fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English, she served as the president of her high school’s Chinese Student Association. Her linguistic skills and cross-cultural experiences have not only enriched her personal growth but also positioned her as a bridge between diverse communities.
She was actually on a trip to China when she received the life-changing call from alliantgroup, informing her about the scholarship. This moment marked a significant milestone in her academic and professional journey, providing her the financial support to pursue higher education.
Pursuing Excellence in Actuarial Science
Xiwen is set to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where she will major in mathematics with plans to pursue a master’s degree in actuarial science. Actuarial science, a discipline that assesses financial risks using mathematical and statistical methods, aligns perfectly with her aspirations. “By majoring in Applied Mathematics and potentially concentrating in Actuarial Science, I wish to apply my acquired expertise in mathematical and economic interpretation to assist individuals needing financial opinion, thus allowing them to make better-informed decisions,” she explains.
Her ultimate mission is to contribute to the protection of financial security for those who lack financial awareness. “In the fast-paced world of today, to be deprived of fluency in economic trends may be detrimental to small businesses and individual investors. It is my ultimate mission to contribute to the protection of financial security for those who are suffering because of their lack of financial awareness.”
Expanding Opportunities with Blue Heart Fund
Xiwen’s scholarship is part of the broader initiative by alliantgroup’s philanthropic arm, the Blue Heart Fund, which has recently expanded its scholarship program. Recognizing the evolving landscape of technical fields, the program now includes Accounting majors, transforming STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into STEaM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, and Math).
Since its inception, the Blue Heart Fund has awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to high school seniors pursuing college majors in these technical fields. The inclusion of accounting responds to the growing recognition of accounting programs as STEM disciplines and addresses the alarming talent gap in the accounting industry. With a 16% decline in accountants and auditors over the last few years, this expansion is timely and essential.
Encouraging the Next Generation
Xiwen’s story is an inspiration to young women everywhere who aspire to enter STEM and STEaM fields. “Being a girl and having an interest in STEM or accounting field already takes courage,” she says. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, passion, and the willingness to seek opportunities despite challenges.
Xiwen Huang’s story is not just about her academic and professional aspirations; it’s a testament to the resilience and potential of young women in STEM. It highlights the critical role of scholarships and support programs in nurturing talent and bridging gaps in technical fields. For Xiwen, the alliantgroup Greater Houston Area STEaM Scholarship is more than financial aid—it’s a stepping stone to making a meaningful impact in the world of mathematics and beyond.
Featured Leadership
Casey Curry is alliantgroup’s Senior Director of Strategic Communications and Philanthropy. Casey serves on the Board of Directors of The Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce and is a passionate STEM education advocate and is dedicated to the advancement and empowerment of women and girls through leadership, education, and mentorship. As a meteorologist by trade and media personality based in Houston, you may have seen Casey on FOX, ABC and NBC, as well as the guest meteorologist on the weekend edition of Good Morning America in New York City.
