My Journey

The path that led me to where I am today

Choosing Computer Science

2021

I stumbled into programming through a YouTube video I'd seen over the summer and was hooked by the problem-solving and creativity it allowed. I was originally admitted into UMass Amherst as a Chemistry major, but quickly worked with my advisor to find a way to switch to the Computer Science major after my first semester.

My First Real Project

2021

I began learning Java and built a simple text-based game as my first real project. It was a basic adventure game where players could explore rooms and collect items, which sparked my passion for coding.

Imposter Syndrome & Fear of Failure

2022

I began to struggle with imposter syndrome, feeling like I didn't belong in the tech field. I was afraid of failing and not being good enough, which made me hesitant to take on new challenges. Fortunately, I found support from friends and mentors who helped me realize that everyone starts somewhere and that failure is part of the learning process.

Finding My Niche

2023

I discovered my passion for frontend development and user experience design. I started by building small web applications using React and Tailwind CSS, which allowed me to combine my love for coding with my interest in design. Soon, I also started learning about AI and machine learning, which opened up many new possibilities for me in the tech field.

Break Through Tech AI

2024-2025

Completed a year-long fellowship that helped me build a strong foundation in AI and machine learning. I worked on various projects, using Python, Google Colab, and other tools to develop AI models and applications. This experience not only deepened my technical skills but also gave me the confidence to tackle complex problems in the tech industry.

Software Engineering Internship

2024

Interned at Publicis Sapient in the summer of 2024, where I helped build an automated CI/CD pipeline tool that saved engineers 85% of time provisioning infrastructure.

Where I’m Going

Present

I'm currently a first-year Master's student in Computer Science at UMass Amherst, focusing on AI and machine learning. This summer, I will be working on a research fellowship alongside one of my professors, where I will be creating an educational tool to help students learn about responsible AI use. I'm excited to continue my journey in tech and explore new opportunities in the field.

Lessons I've Learned

Embrace the Unknown

I’ve learned that some of my proudest moments started as leaps of faith. Growth rarely happens in comfort zones, and I’ve found that the unknown is often where the most exciting learning begins.

Community Matters

I’ve grown because of the people who encouraged me, checked my assumptions, and reminded me I’m not doing this alone. Success feels better when it’s shared.

Persistence Pays Off

Every project that once felt impossible eventually became something I figured out, piece by piece. I’ve learned that persistence isn’t just about grit, it’s about giving yourself the grace to try again tomorrow.

Keep Learning

The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know — and I love that. I’ve found joy in asking questions, exploring new technologies, and even relearning the basics with a fresh perspective.