Networking, a day off from school, and free BBQ. When applying for the 2018 STEM Signing Day, Marianna Moawad, an upcoming sophomore at Clemson University, was originally expecting the very least from what remains a very memorable experience.
Through her Tallo profile, which allows her to showcase her unique skills and interests, Marianna was part of a select group of students chosen by Boeing, BMW, and the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance to attend the second annual South Carolina STEM Signing Day. Onstage at the event, Marianna signed a letter of intent to pursue a STEM degree at Clemson University. She made connections with students who held similar interests, and received affirmations from elected officials and leaders in business and the community that solidified her success and future plans. Still, her love for computer science began well before her STEM Signing Day experience.
From building her first website to learning about the world of coding, as the years have gone on Marianna has found herself becoming more passionate about the field of technology.
Now, in a college setting, the Computer Information Systems major is experiencing firsthand the lack of women in her field — a discovery that she finds to be disheartening. In her own words, “We are the minority, and there’s not a lot of women in technology. And it’s very sad.”
Her advice to students in general was simple: “Life is hard, it’s not going to be easy,” Moawad says. “If you don’t get an A, that’s fine. Just make sure you’re learning from those experiences and trying to think in a different way.”
Good luck with all of your future endeavors, Marianna. We look forward to seeing all of your success on your Tallo profile!
