October 30, 2023
Last month, 33 students (18 in person and 15 virtually) from the School of Computing and Information (SCI) attended the Grace Hopper Conference (GHC) in Orlando, FL.
As one of the world’s largest gathering of women and non-binary technologists, the conference provides attendees the opportunity to network with other participants and companies who are committed to shrinking the gender gap in STEM. SCI believes strongly in the conference’s mission and sponsors a group of students to attend both in-person and virtually each year. This year, 18 SCI students attended the conference in person and 15 attended it virtually.
“GHC opens our students to a plethora of opportunities and puts them on the path for career success while welcoming them into the nationwide community of female and non-binary technologists,” said Jenn Welton, SCI’s Director of Career Development., “From a professional development and career perspective, GHC is the epitome of career expos.”
Jennifer Zheng, a fourth-year student majoring in computer science and digital narrative and interactive design who attended this year, first became interested in attending GHC to connect with recruiters and learn more about topics like technology in animation at various talks. For Zheng, the best part of the conference was “getting to know women in tech at different companies. They've offered so much valuable advice and gave very interesting talks.”
For Wenjie Xu, a student in the Master of Science in Information Science program and another GHC 2023 attendee, said her favorite part of the conference was engaging with the professionals and recruiters.
“They have been more than happy to connect with me and provide valuable advice regarding my career path and resume,” Xu said. “Hearing their personal stories about their job search journeys and experiences working in different companies has been truly inspiring.”
Zheng and Xu both believe that SCI’s commitment to Grace Hopper is important.
“Participating in the Grace Hopper Conference […] presents a valuable opportunity to showcase our university and highlight our research achievements. It allows us to introduce our institution to a wider audience and share our accomplishments in the field,” said Xu.
Zheng added that SCI’s support is important to her because “students are able to attend this conference and connect with other women in tech,” she said. STEM fields have historically been male- dominated, something that GHC aims to change while providing a platform for underrepresented groups in tech to share their experiences and work towards a brighter future. SCI is committed to working towards these goals and giving students the opportunity to attend GHC for years to come. [OSA4]
As for GHC 2024, Zheng and Wu have some valuable advice for future attendees.
According to Zheng, feels the most important thing to keep in mind while participating is staying true to yourself. I, she says it “will let your passion and uniqueness shine through.” She also said that mindset should extend to your job search. “Llook for a company where you can be yourself and enjoy your work.”
Wu believes that being open to engaging with fellow attendees is key.
“Embrace courage and venture beyond your comfort zone,” […remember that] those around you are there to support, not to hinder you.”
--Benjamin Briggs