School: University of Pittsburgh

College Major: Masters in Computer Science, Bachelors in Computer Science

Scholarship Winnings: $35,175

Scholastic Honors: Graduated Summa Cum Laude with Honors, Selected as Lead Teaching Assistant for a 400-level computer science class, Dean’s List every semester, Perfect 800 on Math SAT Subject Test

Career Ambition: Become the Chief Technology Officer of a Fortune 500 Company

Talent: Ballet En Pointe

Social Impact Initiative: Inspired by my younger brother Luke, who is on the autism spectrum, it became very clear to me how few resources there are for adults on the autism spectrum. I am dedicated to raising awareness for the resources that do exist as well as the realities of autism, while also advocating for support systems and programs that allow adults with autism to live secure and purposeful lives.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received? “A ship at port is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for.” – Grace Hopper, one of the first female computer scientists. I received this advice while attending the Grace Hopper Conference, a conference for Women in Tech. It taught me to live life with no regrets and without fear of failure. I keep this with me, as a force of empowerment, especially being a woman in the technology industry.