On track to graduating from Molloy University in 2024, Maria is currently working at the New York Public Library as a Cloud Application Development intern. The job, which involves using the Google Cloud Platform to create AI applications to support patrons of the NYPL, is a direct result of her involvement with Break Through Tech.
Published
12/13/2023
“Break Through Tech helped me to feel more confident in my technical abilities by providing me with a nurturing and supportive environment,” says Maria. “Before my involvement, I questioned my skills and wondered if I truly belonged in the tech world. But I gained more technical knowledge and confidence through the various workshops, mentoring sessions, and hands-on projects at Break Through Tech.”
“Break Through Tech presented not just an opportunity for personal growth, but also a chance to be part of a meaningful movement that closes the gender gap.”
Break Through Tech’s focus on bridging the tech gap across industries is also essential to Maria. “The ability to tap into valuable resources specifically tailored to women in the tech industry was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Break Through Tech presented an opportunity for personal growth and a chance to be part of a meaningful movement that closes the gender gap.”
Strongly influenced and encouraged by her dad, Maria credits him for fostering her creativity and interest in computers, sharing how he always let her play with his when she was a young child.
Asked to share a memorable moment from her Break Through Tech experience so far, Maria had no hesitation in nominating the August 2023 Bridge to Studio event. “I was able to use what I had learned over the summer for real AI projects,” said Maria. “Working collaboratively with other Break Through Tech students has been very rewarding.”
Maria loves reading, cooking, and walking in New York City when she’s not working. When asked to name her personal “superpower,” Maria quotes her time management skills: “I hate procrastinating!” Time management is also top of her list when it comes to advice for other potential Break Through Tech students: “It’s important to understand the time commitment needed for the Break Through Tech AI program. The curriculum is intensive, but it’s worth it in the end!
Connect with Maria on LinkedIn here.