Pricilla Bravos-Santos

Hi, I am Priscila, a first-year undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Bioengineering at UC Berkeley. I am passionate about finding ways to develop medical technologies that support communities in need, with a particular desire to support my hometown in the East Bay Area. I am interested in research on Medical Devices and Cell and Tissue Engineering. Beyond school, I enjoy the performing arts and have been singing and dancing my whole life.

Sylvia Chin

Sylvia Chin is a junior studying Electrical Engineering at Stanford University. Driven by a deep-seated curiosity and a passion for problem-solving, Sylvia has taken on various multidisciplinary projects, from AI applications to music synthesis. Her ability to bridge different perspectives and foster connections has made her a strong collaborator and leader in both professional and academic spheres. As an AWT scholarship awardee, Sylvia eagerly anticipates advancing her studies in Electrical Engineering, exchanging invaluable insights gained from AWT, and connecting with a dynamic community of empowered students spearheading technological innovation.

Karla Chuprinski

Karla, a computer science major at Cal State Long Beach, embarked on her STEM journey when she discovered her true passion for mathematics, technology, and problem-solving.
Despite spending the first half of her life as a makeup artist, where she enjoyed uplifting women and making them feel special and beautiful, she realized her deeper calling lay in mathematics and computer science. While her desire to boost women’s self-esteem remains strong, she felt compelled to pursue her genuine passion. Karla aspires to inspire other women who, like her, initially felt intimidated by male-dominated fields. She is determined to make a positive impact on the world, recognizing the transformative power of technology in shaping the future.
Among her diverse interests, Karla’s dedication to animal welfare shines through. She regularly volunteers at her local animal shelter, finding joy in the chance to positively impact the lives of animals in need.

Carine Gordillo

Hi! My name is Carine Gordillo, and I am currently a senior at California State University, Long Beach, majoring in Computer Science. As a first-generation college student, I initially found it
challenging to navigate university life, being the first in my family to do so. However, the more I involved myself in school activities, such as joining a professional Engineering fraternity, volunteering for hackathons, and participating as a WiC sisterhood mentor, the more I was able to connect with other students who had more knowledge and were kind enough to help me along the way.
I chose to major in Computer Science due to its versatility and impact. Computer Science is utilized across various industries which would allow me to contribute to a broad spectrum of
projects that are not only innovative and impactful but also creatively fulfilling. This field keeps me constantly engaged and excited about the possibilities of making meaningful contributions to diverse areas through technology.
After graduating, I’ll start my career as a software engineer. I’m eager to dive into new technologies and maintain my role as a lifelong learner in this field. Additionally, I aim to volunteer in programs that support and mentor underrepresented individuals to explore computer science.

Helen Ho

I am a senior student at California State University of Long Beach (CSULB), majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Graphic Design. I love combining my interests with computers and coding, to other areas such as visual arts and design. I have a huge passion for video games, and want to get more involved in game development. In my free time I like to play video games, draw, and crochet!
I played video games ever since I was a kid, and this was what got me to learn more about computers and art. Currently I am president of the Video Game Development Association at CSULB. I also got the opportunity to teach young girls how to make their own game at a summer camp called Girls Make Games, an organization dedicated to encouraging women to enter the game industry.
Currently, I am looking for internships and opportunities in the video game industry before I graduate. I hope to make an impact on the industry, especially by encouraging more girls to get into video games and game development!

Kelly Huang

Kelly is a third-year student at the University of Southern California studying Intelligence and Cyber Operations, an interdisciplinary major that combines cybersecurity and international relations. As a first-generation college student, Kelly is passionate about making education equitable and accessible. Through technology, Kelly has been able to teach critical languages to underserved youth in the Los Angeles area. 
Professionally, Kelly has interned at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and worked on generative AI at a startup in Tokyo. On campus, she serves as a Teaching Assistant for the Information Technology Program and volunteers as an advisor to the USC Cybersecurity and Forensics Organization. Her goals are to diversify the cybersecurity workforce and pay it forward for future leaders in IT.
In her free time, Kelly enjoys participating in her university’s marching band, learning languages, and going on bike rides. 

Rebecca Jennings

My name is Rebecca Jennings and I am currently in my first year attending the University of California, Riverside. I am a Computer Science major and my goal is to land a career as either a Software Engineer, Computer System Analyst, or within Cybersecurity. Some hobbies and extracurriculars I enjoy are journaling, running, volunteering, and collecting K-pop albums.

Farrah Lester

My name is Farrah, and I’m a dedicated mechanical engineering student at California State University, Long Beach, set to graduate in the class of 2026. As a woman navigating a career in a field traditionally dominated by men, I am passionate about breaking barriers and fostering an inclusive environment. My goal is to promote diversity within STEM by encouraging more women to explore these exciting fields. I am eager to contribute my skills and perspective to advance innovation and equality in engineering.

Deisy Martinez

I am Deisy Martinez, pursuing a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering with an emphasis in Astronautics at California State University, Long Beach. With a background in aerospace engineering, I thrive on challenges and continuously seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. Whether it’s through academic pursuits, hands-on projects, or community involvement, I am committed to making a positive impact in my field and beyond. Overall, I would not have been able to be here without my community and their endless support. As a first-generation student who had to navigate the struggles and uncertainties, I joined Society of Women Engineers, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, and Latinos in Science and Engineering where I was fortunate to connect with and gain leadership skills.
Ultimately, the support and guidance I am given has shown me that my community manages to guide me through every step of my academic life.

Aaliyah McCollum

My name is Aaliyah McCollum and I am currently attending California State University of San Bernardino. I plan to obtain my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science here. I enjoy being a woman in the STEM field because not only is there a lack of female presence in this major but there is also a lack of female presence in this career. I love being able to push past the stereotype of women aren’t as smart or aren’t as enthusiastic as men in this career field. I love being able to effortlessly prove to the men in this field that I am here to stay regardless of your pre- determined stigma against me. I love being able to have the confidence to say “You’re wrong, you’re actually supposed to do it this way.” Lastly, I just love programming and I want to be able to work on projects that can cater to the gender fluid society that we are heading towards.

Theresa Nguyen

Theresa Nguyen is a student studying computer science at California State University, Long Beach. She has a passion for creating new things and solving problems. Currently Theresa is interested in and exploring the fields of machine learning and software engineering. She loves to learn and always pushes to know more about any subjects she can. In her free time, her interests are baking and doing handicraft projects.

Jasmine Pineda

I am a first-generation Latina from Los Angeles, California. My parents are both immigrants from Guatemala and El Salvador. In my free time, I enjoy crocheting, watching movies, and spending time with family. I have always been passionate about science since my childhood and enjoyed learning about astronomy. I am now pursuing my passion as a first-year computer science major at California State University, Los Angeles. While I am pursuing my degree I hope to gain and grow my knowledge and skills of computer science through internships. My goal is to make the most of these skills by working in the aerospace industry to positively contribute to space exploration and the expansion of our knowledge of the universe.

Srinidhi Pusuluri

Srinidhi Pusuluri, a graduate student majoring in Computer Science at California State University, Long Beach.Srinidhi is an Asian American originating from an immigrant family With a keen interest in innovation, particularly in Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing, Srinidhi thrives on exploring projects that utilize these technologies to address real-world challenges.
Beyond her studies, Srinidhi actively contributes to her university community as an Employer Engagement Student Assistant Additionally, she finds joy in nurturing her artistic side through painting.
Srinidhi aims to combine her Computer Science skills with her love for innovation to create meaningful solutions. She wants to motivate others to follow their passions and make a positive impact on the world.

Ana Sordo

My name is Ana Sordo, a 3rd-year bachelor’s student at California State University San Bernardino, pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Engineering with a minor in Data Science. My passionate academic interests include innovative web development and the intersections of AI with mathematics.
Currently, I’m practicing my skills as an Interim Junior Software Developer for the NICE Challenge Project, where I apply what I’ve learned in a practical setting. My extracurricular activities include all outdoor endeavors regardless of the weather, and participating in STEM events/hackathons. My spirituality and the culture within my church community play a significant role in shaping my outlook on life. They’ve taught me the value of confidence and finding purpose, guiding me to a holistic understanding of happiness.
This perspective has led me to value mental, spiritual, and physical well-being over material success. My motto, is that life’s value lies not in its length but in its depth and legacy. I’m committed to living purposefully, making meaningful contributions, and encouraging others to recognize the importance of a well-rounded approach to computer science, life, and work.

Arianna Tarki

Arianna Tarki is a junior majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Data Science at Cal Poly Pomona. As a first-generation American and the first in her family to go to college, she strives to be a good role model for her family. When she isn’t busy with school, she enjoys camping for astronomy, going to concerts, reading comics, hanging out with her cat Bean, and playing video games with her friends.
Having a mixed Iranian-Mexican heritage has given Arianna a unique perspective on the world around her, and is why she strives to provide more support for underrepresented identities in STEM.

Julie Truong

After receiving my Associates of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science from Cypress College, I aspire to always improve. Currently, I am a third-year transfer student pursuing my Computer Science Bachelors at California State University, Long Beach! 

To offer some insight into my background, I grew up in the early 2000s, where technology was expanding rapidly over time. I learned how to browse websites quicker than finishing my multiplication tables. I was fascinated by my computer, and even more so as I realized I could be a part of technology’s ever evolving growth. My first introduction to code was in high school: I remember my thrill, seeing my personalized website come to life. 

However, I did not see role models in the field that looked like me. I did not know it was possible to pursue this field because of my lack of exposure to it until high school. Therefore, I aspire to become a software engineer in order to make positive change in the world through invention. This ambition was exemplified in my experience as a coding instructor for youth. To see my students light up reminded me of my high school self. 

Closing the gap that is the underrepresentation of women and people of color in science also drives me; I aspire to be that someone that I wish I had to look up to when I was younger.