ACM Scholar Spotlights: Simona Lo Conte
Welcome to ACM Scholar Spotlights, a series where we shine a light on the inspiring paths of students 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 Simona Lo Conte, a 22-year-old Master’s student in Computer Science specializing in Data Science and Machine Learning, whose fascination with the limitations of computers and human brain operations is driving her mission to bridge the gender gap in technology
My Passion for Data Science and Machine Learning
I am a student enrolled in a Master’s degree program in Computer Science, specifically in the curriculum of Data Science and Machine Learning. I have chosen this field of study because I am fascinated by the limitations of computers and the ways in which the human brain operates. Due to its rapid development in the field of artificial intelligence, my long-term goal is to continue my career in the same field in order to become a data scientist.
Overcoming Challenges and Self-Doubt
During my university career, there were times when I was unsure about pursuing this route, mainly due to the significant level of commitment and workload management required. Nevertheless, I have learned that it is essential to have self-belief and to avoid allowing anxiety and initial insecurity to overwhelm you. After overcoming the various challenges presented during my journey, I have achieved several key skills, including problem-solving, communication and collaboration and other important soft skills.
Addressing the Gender Gap in Technology
A persistent issue in the field of Computer Science is that there is a widespread gender gap and the presence of men in the sector is still far greater than that of women. I believe that the main barrier and cause of the gap that prevents equal access to the technology sector is society’s mentality and the common ideal that this sector is more male-oriented. What I strive to do is to raise awareness of this field among even younger girls who intend to pursue the academic field, especially by sharing my personal experience.
My First womENcourage Experience
In this regard, I have participated to WomENcourage conference in Madrid and it was my first international conference. One of the most rewarding aspects was the opportunity to attend engaging workshops on a wide range of topics. During these workshops, I had the pleasure of meeting students, researchers, and professionals who shared their experiences and provided insights into different career paths and opportunities in the technology sector.
Presenting My Research: GIS2 Project
A particularly significant milestone for me was presenting a poster at the conference for the first time. My colleague and I presented our project, GIS2, which is in line with the objectives of WomENcourage. GIS2: a Geographical Information System as a help against the Gender Inequality Society is a project that seeks to mitigate the problem of gender inequality, by developing a feature that provides the best path in terms of security within University of Salerno.
Presenting this project not only marked a personal achievement but also contributed to my academic and professional growth. It was an incredible opportunity to receive feedback from experts in the field, engage in insightful discussions, and gain confidence in sharing our work with a broader audience.
My Present and My Hopes for the Future
My advice to those who plan to attend WomENcourage next year is to try to learn as much as possible from such events, because they allow you to enrich your personal and educational background. I believe that by continuing to share our experiences and supporting each other, we can work together to close the gender gap in technology and inspire more women to pursue careers in computer science.