ACM Scholar Spotlights: Soni Selvia
Welcome to ACM Scholar Spotlights, a series where we shine a light on the inspiring paths of women in computing who received the 2025 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 story, we feature Soni Selvia, a third-year Software Engineering student who shares their journey from early dreams of law and science to discovering a passion for technology and its power to help others. Reflecting on their experience at womENcourage 2025, they discuss breaking stereotypes, finding purpose, and how inclusive communities can reignite motivation and growth.
Why I Chose Software Engineering ?
When I was a kid, even before I knew what it meant, I used to say that I wanted to be a lawyer — because I wanted to protect and be there for people, especially those I love. As I grew older and explored more subjects, I became fascinated by how the world works. I proudly declared that I wanted to be a scientist. I imagined myself in a white lab coat, creating something extraordinary and never seen before by humankind.
But as time passed, the world evolved rapidly — and so did I. My childhood dreams started to feel a bit outdated in the context of the world’s technological progress. I realized that my love for math and the exact sciences, combined with my deep desire to help people, could merge beautifully in one field — Software Engineering.
Today, I am in the third year of my studies, and I must admit, it hasn’t always been an easy journey. There have been moments of doubt and lack of enthusiasm, but whenever I remember why I started, I find the strength and motivation to keep going.
Navigating Bias in Tech
Fortunately, despite choosing an engineering field, I haven’t experienced classrooms that are entirely male-dominated. Still, comments like “Leave the frontend work to a girl — it’s easier” or “Hardware’s more of a guy thing; girls don’t get it” occasionally surface. It’s disappointing that such stereotypes persist even today.
That’s why I deeply value the work that womENcourage does to promote diversity and remind everyone that women belong in STEM just as much as men do. Their efforts make a real difference in empowering and inspiring young women like me.
My womENcourage Experience
Attending womENcourage 2025 was an incredible experience — my first time, but definitely not my last. I participated in three inspiring workshops that covered topics ranging from UI/UX design and privacy and security to AI and effective research methodologies.
Beyond the technical knowledge, these sessions helped me shift my mindset and reignited my passion for learning and growing in this field. womENcourage 2025 encouraged me to continue my academic and professional journey with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm.