Break Through Tech has given Isabel concrete experience and knowledge to work with when planning her future through its summer course and the projects she’s begun working on.
Published
08/26/2024
Isabel first heard about Break Through Tech through a newsletter from California State University of Long Beach, where she is a rising junior studying Computer Science. She was initially drawn in by the program’s involvement with UCLA and AI. “I was really interested in learning more about AI and machine learning concepts and Break Through Tech seemed like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with everything they offered their students,” says Isabel.
Isabel has not been disappointed. ”Break Through Tech has provided me with a solid vision of my future career path and what that specifically looks like in tech,” says Isabel. “Before, I was just trusting that I would eventually find my niche.” Break Through Tech has given Isabel concrete experience and knowledge to work with when planning her future through its summer course and the projects she’s begun working on. “They’ve shown me a wide variety of the problems I can solve and ways I can positively contribute to the world through technology and artificial intelligence.”
“Break Through Tech taught me the lesson to not let my fears and doubts get in my way.”
When asked about lessons learned from Break Through Tech, Isabel cited the application process before getting accepted into the program. “Before joining Break Through Tech, I was convinced that I wasn’t qualified enough to apply or that I wasn’t academically ready to put myself out there,” says Isabel. “Before the application deadline, I pushed past that narrative and told myself that I did have value as a student and candidate and that I should not tell myself “no” before anybody else did or I’d be failing before even trying. Break Through Tech taught me the lesson to not let my fears and doubts get in my way.”
If Isabel could give a student considering Break Through Tech a piece of advice, it would be to always bet on yourself. “Give yourself the best chance to succeed by putting yourself out there and working towards your goals, even when you’re scared,” says Isabel. “Trust in yourself and your abilities. This program is amazing and extremely rewarding and I believe everyone should try and be a part of it. Bet on yourself and apply.”
Beyond her studies, Isabel loves taking on leadership roles, mentoring young minds, and tutoring. “I’m dedicated to inspiring others, especially those from underrepresented communities, to explore tech,” says Isabel. “I believe in the power of diversity and am committed to making the tech landscape more inclusive and vibrant.”