About Marian
When did you become interested in Computer Engineering?
I originally was a Computer Science Major beginning my freshman year but I realized that I am a more hands-on person who is also fascinated by circuits. Ever since I was little, I would take apart small electronics like hand crank flashlights. At the time, it was purely out of fascination. Now as an adult, I can take that interest and turn it into a career.
What area of Computer Engineering interests you the most?
I would like my career to focus on device hardware. Embedded Systems, specifically low-level coding, interest me the most because it combines the best of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. I would get the chance to see the hardware I am working on as the code is implemented.
What are your plans after graduation?
I would like to work on my Master’s Degree and then go into the workforce in either Industry or the Government.
What is your dream job?
One where I can stay close to my family while also enjoying the work I do every day. I would also hope that the work I do makes an impact on people in some way, whether it is through covert methods or an item they use on a regular basis.
About being a CE major
What is the best part about being a CWIT Scholar?
Coming into college with a community of people to support me from the beginning was a wonderful feeling freshman year and I will forever cherish the CWIT community for giving me this opportunity. I have people I can always go to for advice because they have seen someone do what I want to do or have done it themselves. CWIT has also given me the opportunity to give back by teaching classes for new scholars or helping in K-12 mentoring activities.
What is your favorite course/professor and why?
Looking back from my first semester of my junior year, I really did enjoy ENES 101 in freshman year. The class gave me a chance to glimpse what each of the Engineering majors at UMBC are studying. This class further confirmed in my mind that I really enjoyed Computer Engineering topics and wanted to delve deeper into the subject.
Are you part of any on-campus clubs, organizations, teams, or labs?
I am currently Treasurer of two organizations. The first one is the Lutheran Episcopal Ministry at UMBC. In this club, we meet and have discussions and/or worship with a group of peers and pastors. It is a great community to have and helps me practice my religion in a regular way without leaving campus. I am also Treasurer of my Sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha. Being in a sorority has given me a great group of women I can always turn to or ask to hangout. Participating with them in service events or sisterhood activities is just so much fun.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
Never sell yourself short in college because you are more capable than you think you are. I always hear friends talking themselves out of things or talking down their skills and that is just not the way you are going to succeed. In a few weeks, I will see those same friends doing amazing things just because they started believing in themselves.
What advice would you give to other females entering the field?
Finding a community of females in STEM fields will help you so much. Whether those women are in the classes with you or not, they will understand why certain successes mean so much to you or why some struggles get you down because they are probably going through something similar in their life.
About life at UMBC
What is the best part about campus life at UMBC?
I do not care what anyone says, UMBC is a nerd school. If you are here, you are a nerd in some small way and thanks to that, you will always find someone interested in whatever nerdy thing you are interested in.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
I have always thought the AOK library is an impressive building. 7 floors means you will always find a floor that is perfect for however you want to study or work.
Where can you get the best coffee/lunch/ food or beverage of choice?
I eat a lot of types of food so I enjoy most things on campus. Commons has a great variety for lunch. My favorite breakfast to get is at the dining hall, True Grits. And if you just crave a snack or drink, we have Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks.