About Me

Ruth Barasa - About photo

Hi, I'm Ruth Barasa — a developer, problem-solver, and first-year Computer Science M.S. student at UMass Amherst.

I'm driven by curiosity, continuous learning, and the belief that technology should empower people. I love bringing ideas to life through code, especially when it means making something more accessible or meaningful for others. Outside of the screen, you'll find me exploring new ideas, connecting with my community, and always looking for ways to grow both personally and professionally.

My Philosophy

Every day, I strive to live in a way that reflects the version of me I can be proud of. That means embracing my strengths, learning from my mistakes, and standing tall in my truth even when it feels uncomfortable.

Beyond the Code, I Love...

Cats

Spending Time with Stella

Cinnamon Crunch Bagels

Cooking & Baking

Adventure

Nature Walks & Photography

Fallacy Detective

Reading Books

Nails

Painting My Nails

Drawing

Drawing & Sketching

My Core Values

Intentionality

I aim to build with purpose, not just because I can. Whether it's a design choice or a technical tradeoff, it should serve real people and real needs.

Empathy

I always try to meet people where they are. Understanding drives better collaboration and better code.

Self-Respect

I want to be proud of what I make, how I work, and how I carry myself. That includes taking breaks, setting boundaries, and choosing environments that align with my values.

Uplifting Others

Representation matters to me; not just in who's in the room, but who feels heard in it. I make it a point to share space, give credit, and lift up other voices, especially those that are underrepresented in tech.