After taking Computer Science classes in 11th and 12th grade, I was sure about following a career path in a technology-oriented domain. Now at college, my major is Computer Science and Engineering. Through the years, experiencing what it is to be an under-represented group has not changed. The initial reaction was intimidation and the fear of how I will fit in. It had led me to become an imposter and have self-doubt. Owing to these situations, I have become stronger, bolder, and much more confident. I have become a woman who believes in my abilities more than anyone else. Guidance from industry professionals, a loving family, and communities of like-minded individuals have been pivotal in my growth.
To this day, the field of technology is dominated by men. The root of this problem starts much earlier in high school and colleges, where not enough women take up subjects relating to technology. More women should be encouraged right from the start. In India, a lot of women have been deprived of pursuing a college degree, but there has been a significant change in the mindset of people. Lack of diversity, leading to imposter syndrome and self-doubt is a major problem in the tech industry according to me. The fear of not being able to manage a family and a successful professional career intimidates women. Providing a comfortable and respectable workspace for women will surely contribute to solving the problem. Initiatives to promote diversity should be organized to inspire us and interact with women who have broken glass ceilings and followed their passion. However, activities in the name of diversity have received a lot of backlashes often.
The field of computer science and technology excites me immensely. The accessibility to information that our generation has been blessed with is truly remarkable. I graduate in 2023 but have constantly been working on projects, ideas and applying what I have learned. Every day is a new day and an opportunity to create something and positively impact the world. I consider technology as a superpower, a force that can change the world and improve the quality of millions of lives. I envision myself using this superpower, extensively based on computer science fundamentals, to solve problems faced by people.