Empowering Journeys: How Programming Transformed My Life
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Chapter 1: My Unique Path in Technology
Here’s a glimpse into my journey...
Prior to becoming an author, I embarked on my career as a Black woman in tech—a field where individuals like me were scarce. Despite the progress women have made in this industry, Black women continue to be underrepresented.
A 2021 report from AnitaB.org highlights that women constitute only 26.7% of the tech workforce, with Black women making up a mere 1.7%. This statistic reveals that out of every 100 engineers, only one is a Black woman—an alarming reality that highlights the need for change.
In graduate school, I focused my studies on Information Technology. I was not only a self-identified nerd but also a rather shy one. My routine involved attending evening classes twice a week after my day job. I chose a Catholic University, where nuns frequently appeared, whether in the cafeteria or walking through hallways, which took a bit of adjustment.
Section 1.1: Facing Challenges in Learning
I thrived in my design and business theory classes, but Object Oriented Programming was a different story. The “If…Then” statements felt utterly perplexing. The examples seemed trivial—like “If it’s cloudy, Then it will rain”—and I struggled to grasp the relevance.
My professor, who had a rather grand demeanor, often explained concepts in a way that felt unnecessarily complicated. Surely, there had to be better methods than slogging through each coding problem!
Subsection 1.1.1: A Life-Changing Moment
The pivotal moment occurred after the midterm exams. I was expecting a D, but received an F instead.
After distributing the results, my professor called my name along with six others to meet him in his office. As the Dean, he had a striking appearance with his thick, curly hair styled in an impressive bro-fro, giving him an authoritative presence.
Entering his office, my heart raced as he scrutinized us. His serious demeanor set a tense atmosphere as he delivered the disheartening news: “Based on your midterm scores, you’re not suited to continue in my class. I suggest you withdraw for a partial refund.”
I was taken aback, feeling a surge of anger. How could he judge my potential? The bus ride home was filled with resentment, yet the next morning, I resolved to prove him wrong.
With renewed determination, I sought out a tutor who could simplify the material for me. He was incredibly patient and, admittedly, quite attractive, which only added to my motivation instead of distracting me.
Despite the stress and anxiety I faced, I ultimately passed the class, feeling a sense of validation. I said farewell to my tutor and continued my studies, eventually earning a Master’s Degree in IT.
Chapter 2: Rising Above Underestimation
The experience of being underestimated fueled my drive for success. I had never imagined soaring to new heights until that moment when my professor doubted my abilities.
This struggle eventually transformed into clarity, empowering me with newfound confidence.
Underestimating someone can sometimes be a hidden advantage, offering the chance to prove critics wrong. The next time someone doubts your capabilities, embrace it as a challenge. Use that skepticism to ignite your passion and push harder than ever before.
Let’s turn those doubters into believers!
Until next time,
~Elena