ACM Scholar Spotlights: Ioana Manghiuc
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 Ioana Manghiuc, a Computer Science student at Transilvania University of Brasov. From taking a leap of faith into computing to co-founding a new ACM Student Chapter, Ioana shares their journey, their first womENcourage experience, and their hopes for inspiring others to take chances in their own paths.
Beginning the Journey into Computing
My name is Ioana Manghiuc, and I am starting the third and final year of my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Transilvania University of Brasov this fall. My journey into the field of computing began rather suddenly, sparked by encouragement from my high school tutors during my senior year. Although I had no prior experience with computer science, I took a leap of faith driven by curiosity and ventured into this world.
The first year was undeniably the most challenging academically. Surrounded by peers with a sea of knowledge to guide them through their studies, I felt thoroughly unprepared since I was just learning the basics. Despite moments of doubt urging me to pursue an easier career, I persisted, thus finishing my first year convinced that this was the path for me.
Growth and New Opportunities
By my second year, I had gained confidence in completing my assignments independently and within teams, allowing me to invest my time in volunteering or cultivating my hobbies. It was during this time that an exciting idea surfaced: establishing a new ACM Student Chapter at our university. With the support of our coordinator professor, we successfully launched the chapter, and are enthusiastic about planning events for our peers to provide support within the student community, and opportunities for them to bond over shared interests.
Additionally, we applied for a scholarship to attend this year’s womENcourage conference, which proved to be an amazing opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and put ourselves on the map of existing Student Chapters. I returned home with new ideas and friendships, and would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone I know, especially to women who are considering this career path or who have just started their journey. The womENcourage event creates a refreshing environment where women can share ideas and knowledge without fear of being talked over or not listened to, providing hope for a better future and a real example of what this field could look like if we continue pushing for change.
Looking Ahead
Currently, I am immersed in an apprenticeship at a software company in my city while simultaneously preparing for my Bachelor’s thesis. Looking ahead, I am excited about the possibilities that are in store for my career. My experiences thus far have reinforced my passion for this field and strengthened my desire to succeed and to continue learning while supporting others in their own journeys.
In sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to take a chance when it comes their way, because no matter the outcome, you will have learned something by the end of it.