My International Women's Day

This International Women's Day, I'm thanking the powerful women in my life; my mentors. They are the one's who have continually pushed me to my greatest potential and led me to where I am today. 

Nishila, you were my first ever influencer. At only age 9, you convinced me to apply to a science and technology program for middle school - which ended up completely changing my mindset on girls in STEM careers. That program opened up my mind to robotics and programming, and is truly where I fell in love with engineering. Of course, the mentorship didn't stop there - you encouraged me to join the gifted program for high school where I met students who shared similar interests and passions and are now my closest friends. When it came time to apply to universities, you had absolutely no doubt that I would make it into the program of my dreams, and here I am. Thank you so much for everything and I'm so grateful to have a sister and mentor of such high calibre. You will forever be my role model. 

Mrs. Wang-Martin, I don't think I can ever thank you enough for how much you have done for me. You are my inspiration, role model and greatest supporter. You have given me so many incredible opportunities that have deepened my interest in not only engineering but in being a role model for younger students who want to pursue that field. You have shaped me into the confident leader I believe I am today and I am certain you are shaping all of your students in this way. I aspire to be as hard-working and committed to bringing change as you are. I am looking forward to seeing all of the new ideas you will bring to the table, as you always do, and how many more students you will impact with this ingenuity.

Alison, It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you these past few months and although I have never made it explicit, your drive and passion for diversity in tech inspires me so much. I strive to be as proactive and driven as you are and one day pursue a career that also allows me to give back to the community like yours does. You are an example of an amazing role-model who not only advocates for change, but exhibits it herself. You never hesitate to speak up, lead in a way that's both encouraging and bold, and manage to put a smile on everyones face. You're innovative approach to leadership both inspires and encourages me to bring my best self to work everyday. You are the leader I want to be in the future and thank you so much for standing up for everything you do - I, for one, have been empowered by your actions.

Today has been a day of reflection for me and I am only now realizing the importance of recognition. I would encourage everyone reading this, anyone of any gender, to recognize your mentors. People who have supported, motivated, inspired or even simply educated you - thank them. Happy International Women's Day.