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Q: Please tell us about your background and why you decided to come to the iSchool.

A: I chose the iSchool because I wanted an education that truly blends my passion for technology with making a positive impact on society. I believe access to tech education is critical, and I’m determined to bring it to communities that lack the resources. Every student, regardless of their background, deserves the chance to pursue a tech career. Initially, I planned to major in computer science after transferring from community college, but when I found a program that aligned even more with my mission, I didn’t hesitate to pursue it. The courses, the research and the groundbreaking work of the professors all sparked a new level of excitement in me. I knew this was where I needed to be to turn my passion into action, and it has fueled my drive even more to bring tech education to those who need it most.

Q: What excites you about the information field?

A: What excites me most about the information field is its incredible power to create positive change in people's lives. Technology has the ability to shape how we learn, communicate and solve problems, and the information field sits right at the intersection of all of that. I’m excited by the endless possibilities of using data and technology to address real-world challenges such as improving access to education, promoting digital equity, or making tech more inclusive for underrepresented communities. The field is constantly evolving, and that means there’s always room for innovation and impact. What really drives me is knowing that through this field, I can help bridge gaps, empower others with knowledge and contribute to making technology accessible to everyone, no matter their background.

Q: What about your iSchool journey thus far are you most proud of?

A: I am most proud of my ability to help others find their career paths in tech information. When I first got into the iSchool, I felt really proud of myself and that came with a lot of new knowledge as I continued to progress from the start of school. With that knowledge, I was able to help other students with their applications for the next INFO major acceptance cycle, and I spent a lot of time helping with the drafting and editing process of their application. Since being at the iSchool, I have come into a position where I can help students, and I wish I had that kind of support when I was applying. It has motivated me to do more for my community, and I am really proud of my ability to give back and share the knowledge I have gained with other students.

Q: How do you hope to apply your unique perspective and background beyond the iSchool?

A: Recently, I have been hearing a lot of students talk about burnout and the pressure to do everything quickly and graduate as soon as possible. Through my experience at Green River College prior to transferring into the INFO program, I learned that success really isn't a race, but more like a marathon. By fostering environments that encourage collaboration and learning, I aim to help others see that everyone’s path is unique. I hope I can share this perspective with students, especially my friends. I would also love to bring peer mentorship to the iSchool. At GRC, I met incredible peer mentors with a program called MESA that encourages students of color and other minority backgrounds to pursue careers in STEM. These mentors supported me academically and personally, and having that support system was invaluable. I want to advocate for programs and initiatives that uplift others by offering guidance and a sense of belonging, just as MESA did for me. I think it’s very important to have a strong support system, and I would love to bring that perspective to my time at the iSchool. Beyond the iSchool, I hope to create spaces where everyone feels encouraged and empowered to reach their goals and ensure that tech is accessible, welcoming, and supportive for all.

Q: What is next on the horizon for you?

A: I want to continue to focus on creating impactful solutions that bridge the gap in tech accessibility, especially for underrepresented communities. In the short term, I’m eager to get involved in undergraduate research at the iSchool, where I can dive deeper into how information technology can drive social change. I’m also excited to explore various career paths in the information field and take advantage of the diverse programs offered at UW to broaden my horizons. I want to continue learning and growing as a person while discovering new ways to contribute to the tech landscape. In the long term, my goal is to lead initiatives either as a product manager or researcher to drive lasting social change through technology. I’m driven by the idea of creating a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Q: Do you have any advice for other transfer students who may want to transfer into the Informatics program?

A: I feel that anyone who wants to have a place in tech can have one. If you have a strong motivation and drive for Informatics, then you will find a way to pursue it. The number of ways to impact others in information technology is limitless, and everyone is capable of making positive change in this field. Additionally, my advice for community college students transitioning to UW is to put yourself out there and explore your interests. I feel like UW is the perfect place to do that. Informatics is a broad field with so many unique applications, so be ready to explore and find what truly excites you! There are so many RSOs and programs you can explore and I think that’s the best way to make the most out of your experience and make great friends. I believe that the strongest title out there is “Student.” Being a student gives you the freedom to ask questions, explore, and embrace learning without hesitation – everyone knows you're here to grow. So, to anyone feeling lost or overwhelmed by the size of UW and all its resources, my advice is simple: just start somewhere. Dive in, try something new, and remember that each step forward is a step toward finding your path. And above all, believe in yourself and the value of your journey – your experiences as a transfer student are unique, and they make you resilient and adaptable. Trust that you have something important to bring to the field, and don’t be afraid to go after every opportunity that excites you.