Iman Shah: Bridging Borders with Break Through Tech

Iman Shah, a dedicated student at Barnard College, Columbia University in New York, is on a mission to share the Break Through Tech ethos well beyond the United States.

Published
08/1/2024

Iman Shah, a dedicated student at Barnard College, Columbia University in New York, is on a mission to share the Break Through Tech ethos well beyond the United States. As she delves into her studies in Economics and Information Science, Iman credits Break Through Tech’s AI Program for equipping her with the skills and confidence necessary to stand out in the competitive job market.

“The AI Program has allowed me to develop my individualism, independence, and my understanding of the world. It has strengthened my capacity to pursue my course of action in life.”

Iman’s academic journey is marked by great achievements, including a transformative 5-month AI Studio Project with Guidehouse, a data and analytics consulting firm. During this project, Iman collaborated with a team to utilize Python, a high-level programming language, and machine learning tools to analyze population-in-need (PIN) demographics in Ukraine. This work was pivotal in forecasting humanitarian aid requirements for the future, showcasing her ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Beyond technical expertise, Iman’s experiences at Barnard College and with Break Through Tech have underscored the importance of building and nurturing meaningful relationships. She advises fellow students to be thoughtful about their communications, emphasizing that commitment and collaboration within a team are essential for personal and professional growth. “I aspire to make women realize their value,” she says, highlighting her passion for empowering others.

Though she studies in New York City and resides in Westchester County, Iman’s heart remains closely connected to her homeland of Pakistan. She envisions a future where her work significantly impacts South Asian education systems, particularly through the integration of STEM subjects like Computer Science. “I plan to work with non-profits to help reform education in Pakistan,” Iman shares, revealing her long-term aspirations to inspire a new generation of women to enter fields where they are currently underrepresented. “I look like them and we have shared experiences, and I was able to turn my passion into enterprise with the help of the Break Through Tech AI Program.”

At Barnard, Iman majored in Economics with a concentration in Mathematical Sciences. She is actively seeking opportunities to apply her academic and experiential learning in meaningful ways. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the support of innovative programs like Break Through Tech.

Follow Iman on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on her inspiring journey.