At just 18 years old, Mariah Jones is already redefining what resilience and brilliance look like. Once living in a women’s shelter in Pittsburgh with her mother and older sisters, Jones is now headed to Vassar College on a prestigious full-ride scholarship to study astrophysics, proving that no circumstance can eclipse her light.
“I don’t let anything stop me,” said Jones, whose drive and tenacity have inspired educators, scientists, and young Black women nationwide.
While still in high school, Jones took the bold step of cold-calling professors at the University of Pittsburgh, hoping to explore her love for space and science.
One of those calls landed her a research opportunity with Dr. Brett Andrews, an astrophysicist studying the distances between galaxies.
“Her curiosity and her drive make her unique,” Andrews told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “She reached out to people she didn’t even know to make an opportunity for herself.”
That initiative paid off—big time. Jones earned the highly competitive QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship, which connects exceptional low-income students with elite institutions. Her scholarship to Vassar College covers full tuition, room and board, and additional expenses.
Mariah’s story is not just about academic excellence it’s about courage, self-advocacy, and the unbreakable spirit of a young Black woman who refused to accept limitations. Living in a shelter didn’t deter her. It sharpened her determination to chase the stars—literally.
“I’ve always been a very aggressive, very strong-willed person,” she said. “And I’m very open to taking challenges head-on.”
As she embarks on her next chapter at Vassar, Jones hopes to continue her research in astrophysics and inspire other young Black girls to pursue careers in STEM.
Her message is clear: your starting point does not define your destination.
