We have a new section in which female students from DEI, who have been distinguished, answer some questions about themselves and their journey in computer science and engineering. 

In this first edition, we interviewed Maria Campos, one of the recipients of the E-REDES Top Women Scholarship in 2023.

Tell us a little about yourself and your journey at IST.

My name is Maria Campos, I am 22 years old, and I enrolled at IST in the academic year 2019/2020 in Computer Science and Engineering. Since then, I have completed my bachelor's degree and am now in the final year of my master's degree, working on my thesis in the field of Information Visualization. I believe my motivation for Computer Science began when I was ten years old when I was playing with the command terminal of Sims 2 to modify aspects of the game.

What did winning this award personally mean to you?

Personally, it was the recognition of several years of continuous effort and dedication to my academic journey. Furthermore, being the granddaughter of two grandmothers who did not have the opportunity to go to school, and now being able to receive this award, represents for me evidence of the victories in the ongoing fight for gender equality.

Why are awards like this important?

These awards are important to recognize the future female engineers of the country and to motivate more women to pursue careers in science.

In your opinion (aside from awards ;) ), what can and should be done to attract more women to science?

I believe this work begins in childhood. There is a paradigm, which is increasingly questioned, of toys for girls and boys. Typically, girls' toys do not involve scientific fields. I think discouraging the idea that certain toys or activities are exclusive to boys or girls gives children the freedom to explore various interests, and surely more girls will feel motivated to pursue careers in science. Highlighting successful women in science is also important, as their stories are often not told, especially from the 20th century and before.

Do you have any advice for future female students in Computer Science and Engineering at Técnico?

It's a challenging journey, especially for a female student who knows she is entering a predominantly male degree. However, it is a journey worth taking, and you will find fantastic and talented colleagues, both girls and boys, always ready to help. I would say it is crucial not to be afraid to ask for help and share your doubts. And if anyone ever tells you it is not possible, remember that the first person to program was Ada Lovelace ;)