This year I had the absolute honor of being able to go to the Grace Hopper Celebration for Women in Computing. I heard about this conference when I was on another SHIP Grant sponsored competitive program called Summer of Code 2019 which allowed me to explore the world of technology in San Francisco, one of the largest focal points of technology in the nation. As soon as I heard about what this conference I immediately knew that this would be yet another great opportunity that would advance my career immensely.

            This conference was focused on women in computing meaning that it would be a great way to be able to meet high achieving women in the tech industry, something that is rare to find considering the gender imbalance in STEM. The amount of opportunities that are available at this conference were amazing because they offered a variety of platforms to get educated such as workshops, panels, career fairs, and resume reviews.

            One of my favorite moments that I experienced was when I was pitching myself to recruiters to companies that I was genuinely interested like Groupon, Snapchat, and Eventbrite. It was great getting practice networking with these amazing companies because it’s an experience that is rare to find on a regular basis. Additionally, I was able to make true connections with these companies being that we even connected on Linkedin, creating future relationships that will allow me to flourish in the field. Some of these companies like Activision, were able to actually offer me opportunities once I am eligible to apply as a junior in college. This was extremely exciting to hear because I truly am interested in working in that company

            This experience allowed me to get in touch with some of the biggest companies and allowed for my name and face to be recognizable by the top recruiters of the nation. The most valuable feeling was that I was being seen as a technologist rather than a woman in technology, something I know is a common issue for several women in the tech industry. I gained so much empowerment due to being surrounded by amazing women and I left the conference inspired to make strides of my own to become a top technologist.