Tell us about your work:
I am a Lecturer in Information Technology Management, the Director of Employability, qTech Academic Director, Programme Director for BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Management (ITMB), and the Deputy Programme Director for L7 Degree Apprenticeship. My main goals are always to help students develop their intellectual, practical and creative potential and to encourage their personal development. I have offered my students of all backgrounds and identities a wide range of intercultural encounters both within programmes and in broader community engagement. I have recently achieved broader community engagement by establishing the qTech programme to work with local businesses and charities to support real-life challenges and in turn enable students to receive skills to join industry after graduation. I believe scientific communication is key and connections with institutions beyond our borders is just as important for a sustainable and prosperous education.
What inspired you to choose EECS and do you have a role model who inspires you?
I have seen first-hand how academia can be unwelcoming and inequitable because of not fitting into a particular schema. EECS in the contrary gives tremendous opportunities to transform lives with inspiring teaching, world-leading research, state-of-the-art facilities and the people who make up the School. My appreciation also naturally goes to my parents for being a continuous source of inspiration. Their devotion and enthusiasm to see me an academic has been above all a significant motivator. Their success story has always been my example. In particular, my father is my greatest influence for several reasons; he is a Doctor of Science and listed in the top 2 percent of scientists in the world in Electrical Engineering with 552 papers published in reputable international journals. He also has 32 patents, and many awards, as well as prizes for excellence in teaching and research. My father inspires me to work hard and do well in life and to make significant contributions to the academic community. He has taught me that in order to succeed, you need to have self-confidence, people who support, and most of all dedication to what you are trying to accomplish.What are the challenges and opportunities of being a woman in EECS?
As a woman, my education and career experiences have benefitted from opportunities as well as supportive and unbiased mentors. I therefore understand the value of educators and mentors who promote an environment of inclusion and enable everyone to access their needs to be successful in their field. EECS must continue to strive to expand diversity with a more inclusive approach welcoming and embracing different backgrounds and creating a broader pool of thought processes. The school’s commitment to this aim resonates with my desire and responsibility to contribute as an educator. To be successful in this will come as a result of hard work, energy, dedication, and a support system.
Why would you say women should consider a career in engineering and computer science?
Because women can change the world! We have the ability to solve world’s big problems. The field gives us the opportunity to develop new technologies to have an improved way of living. The prosperity of any workplace depends on balance and diversity, and for this, women should be appreciated for their skills and also for the insight they bring into the profession.
What's the best thing about your work?
I have become determined to act towards creating an environment that is more inviting towards underrepresented minorities and socioeconomically underprivileged students. My philosophy is that all students should be given equal opportunity as I am sensitive to the challenges that minorities face in academia. I strive to create an open, inclusive and equal environment in which every student has the opportunity to flourish, and my diverse background allows me the sensitivity I need to relate to them.
When not at EECS, what are your interests?
Travelling, swimming, hiking, and reading.