I am currently a freshman Computer Science major at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. Growing up, I was very involved with my community, as I taught young, underrepresented girls the foundations of technology and engineering and how to apply those skills to issues occurring in our society. My membership at the National Center of Women in Information Technology is also a significant part of my academic background. I was the 2018 Las Vegas Regional Affiliate Award Winner for Aspirations in Computing and the 2020 Las Vegas Regional and National Award Winner for Aspirations in Computing. This organization has provided me mentorship and professional opportunities and has contributed significantly to my academic and career aspirations.
My interests in STEM began at a young age when I was homeschooled from grades 1st-8th. This unique opportunity allowed me to explore all academic subjects from a different perspective and a personalized learning path. This intellectual freedom set me on a path to unpack the theory behind disciplines like life/physical sciences and engineering and learn its real-world applications that can develop society and our future in the universe. I decided to study Computer Science because I always loved to know how things like computers, cars, TVs, rollercoasters, and rockets operated. I soon discovered it was because of programming, humans are able to tell technology how to work, and I believe Computer Science is the method of communication between our world and the world of technology. A computer science degree is very interdisciplinary, as I will be able to apply programming and an understanding of computer operations to a career working and conducting research in any STEM industry. Computers are essential to the development and operations of our world today, and as an engineer, I hope to be able to contribute to the goal of advancing our society with the power of technology.
During my undergraduate studies, I wish to continue research in the field of machine learning and its applications in spacecraft operations, combining my passion for computing and aerospace. After receiving my undergraduate degree, I wish to go onto graduate school and pursue my master’s or Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and potentially do research on the applications of machine learning in robotics or remote sensing, and on training for my private pilot certification. My academic plan for higher education will grow my understanding of computational applications to aerospace research and environmental conservation.
In my career, I'd like to either continue my graduate research on AI/ML applications to environmental conservation and remote sensing by becoming a Space Systems Engineer and a Mission Specialist Astronaut. I would like to work on the development of NASA programs like Artemis, Gateway, and future deep-space missions with a concentration on environmental research in space. It has always been my dream to be an astronaut, and I plan to make this dream a reality by continuing to work hard and become inspired. I see myself being a member of Artemis missions and conducting research in space on the sustainability of human life in deep space travel and on other planets.
Another thing in life that truly excites me is traveling and exploring the world. There is something about packing my bags and setting my sights on a new place to explore. I love learning about and being immersed in other cultures and environments. Something I plan to start soon is to visit every national park in America, visit every continent, seven-wonders of the world, and each of the seven summits. I have set these extreme goals for myself because aside from my career aspirations, I want to prioritize global immersion, service, and adventure in my life. While abroad, I plan on giving back to the global community by educating others on the power of technology and its applications that help make life easier and general social justice work. I would like to directly address issues regarding sexual assault, racial injustice, gender inequality in places like Sub-Saharan Africa and the middle east. I feel like what makes life the most meaningful is not self-contentment but sharing your blessings with others, with the goal to help make the world a better place for everyone.