ACM Scholar Spotlights: Crihana Denisa Cristina
Welcome to ACM Scholar Spotlights, a series where we shine a light on the inspiring paths of women in computing who received the 2024 ACM-W scholarship. Through their own words, we hear how they found their place in tech, what motivates them, and how they’re making an impact. These stories reflect not only technical achievement, but also courage, curiosity, and community.
In this edition, we feature Crihana Denisa Cristina, a computer science student from Romania whose passion for responsible computing, cybersecurity, and AI is driving her commitment to create a more equitable and secure digital future.
Introduction
I am a second-year computer science student from Romania with a passion for technology and its potential to drive positive change. My interests lie in responsible computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, areas where I aim to make a meaningful impact. Participating in events like WomENcourage 2024 has broadened my perspective and reinforced my commitment to promoting gender equality in the tech industry.
My journey into technology has been fueled by a deep fascination with how computing can solve complex problems and drive innovation. I chose this field because of its limitless potential and the profound impact it has on every aspect of modern life. From developing algorithms that can predict diseases to creating software that enhances human-computer interaction, the possibilities in computing are boundless. My ultimate career goal is to become a leading expert in AI and cybersecurity, contributing to creating safer and more equitable digital environments.
My Growth and WomENcourage 2024 Experience
Several factors have helped me reach where I am today. First and foremost, a strong support system consisting of family, mentors, and peers has been invaluable. Additionally, staying curious and continuously seeking knowledge through online courses, workshops, and conferences like WomENcourage has significantly contributed to my growth. Practical experience gained through internships and personal projects has also been crucial in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
I had the incredible opportunity to attend the WomENcourage 2024 conference, a prestigious event that celebrates the role and impact of women in computing. This year’s theme, “Responsible Computing for Gender Equality,” highlighted the gender gap in computing and emphasized the utilitarian nature of computing as a tool to augment human capabilities and contribute to societal progress. The conference, held in the vibrant city of Madrid, offered a blend of technical workshops, enlightening tech talks, and engaging poster sessions, all while providing a platform for meaningful networking and cultural experiences.
One of the standout workshops I attended was “Coding for Equality: Building Inclusive Technology with Spacy and Gensim.” This session focused on using natural language processing tools to create inclusive technologies. We were provided with a dataset of tweets and tasked with evaluating an AI model designed to detect offensive language and hate speech. The hands-on experience of working with real-world data and advanced tools like Spacy and Gensim was immensely rewarding. It underscored the importance of building technologies that are not only efficient but also equitable and inclusive. It also deepened my appreciation for the ethical considerations in AI development and inspired me to focus on creating technology that benefits all users.
Another workshop that left a lasting impression was the session on cybersecurity. This introductory session covered various types of cyber attacks and their implications. A particularly intriguing aspect was the recommendation of the website “Have I Been Pwned,” which allows users to check if their personal data has been compromised. The workshop highlighted the critical importance of cybersecurity in our increasingly digital world and sparked a keen interest in this field.
In addition to the enriching academic sessions, the conference provided a delightful cultural experience. Being in Madrid, we had the chance to savor authentic Spanish cuisine and witness a mesmerizing flamenco show. These experiences added a vibrant cultural dimension to the event, making it a holistic and memorable experience.
Reflection and Future Outlook
Attending WomENcourage 2024 was my first time participating in such a large-scale event, and it was an eye-opening experience. The diverse range of sessions broadened my understanding of how computing can be leveraged for social good and reinforced my passion for technology. The event also highlighted the pressing need for gender equality in computing and inspired me to contribute to this cause actively. One of the most valuable takeaways from the conference was the importance of networking and community support. Engaging with fellow participants, industry experts, and academic leaders provided valuable insights and fostered a sense of belonging in the computing community.
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my journey in computer science with a renewed focus on responsible computing and cybersecurity. The skills and knowledge gained from WomENcourage will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping my career. For women considering a path in technology, my advice is to seek out such conferences and events, as they offer unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and personal growth. In moments of doubt, it is essential to remember that everyone faces challenges and that perseverance and support from peers can make a significant difference. Embrace opportunities for continuous learning and remain open to new experiences, as they are the key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success in the tech industry.
In conclusion, WomENcourage 2024 was a transformative experience that has left an indelible mark on my career journey. I am grateful for the knowledge gained, the connections made, and the inspiration received. I look forward to applying these insights to my studies and future career, and I am excited to attend future WomENcourage conferences to continue this enriching journey.