My First Professional Interview
When I was first interviewed for the Seattle Colleges Foundation newsletter, I wasn't sure what to expect. Looking back, the experience wasn’t just a chance to share my journey—it was a powerful reminder of how far I've come. I started as a curious freshman with a passion for learning, exploring psychology and law before ultimately finding my path in computer science.
Today, I'm employed in the tech industry while completing my Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a path made possible through hard work, adaptability, and the right kind of support.
The Interview Experience
Sitting down for the interview with Florangela Davila was a bit surreal. I'm not someone who usually reflects on my achievements out loud, so the process of recounting my journey verbally had me reflecting on how much I had accomplished. It was also a little nerve-wracking knowing the content would be shared with thousands of people.
During the interview, I hit my stride and found myself sharing stories about my early love for technology, how post-secondary education has shaped my journey, and how my determination and passion have opened countless doors along the way. It felt rewarding to reflect on how far I've come and the experiences that have shaped me.
The Value of the Scholarship
In the interview, I spoke about how the Seattle Colleges Foundation scholarship, along with other grants and scholarships, has been instrumental in my education and career development. While I continue to work and support myself, these financial contributions—earned through my hard work—have given me the freedom to focus on my coursework, pursue career-related projects, attend networking events, and gain valuable work experience, all while minimizing the stress of out-of-pocket payments.
Additionally, scholarships have given me the freedom to explore new experiences, both on campus and beyond. They've allowed me to build lasting relationships and grow socially—opportunities that might not have been possible without the time and flexibility that financial support has provided.
A special thanks to Project Baldwin and SpringBoard8 (Slalom). An additional particular thanks to Ebrima Banda and Eustace Manzila, who, like me, are Black leaders in their fields, striving to leave a positive impact.
Unexpected Highlights
One unexpected highlight of the interview day was being treated to a gourmet meal cooked by chefs from South Seattle College's Culinary program—macaroni and a cranberry-inspired dish. It was an unexpected and fancy touch that made the day even more memorable.
Looking to the Future
With graduation just around the corner, I'm excited about what's next. The opportunities feel endless, and I'm more determined than ever to make the most of the support I've received. The video related to the interview will be released soon!
Key Takeaways from the Experience
- Highlight your story with purpose: The goal of an article like this is to connect with both donors and potential scholarship applicants. While it's not my natural inclination, sharing my accomplishments in a humble way can be a powerful tool—one that helps donors understand the impact of their support and encourages future applicants to pursue similar opportunities.
- Restate the question: Restating the question in your response not only helps organize your thoughts but also gives you the chance to set the direction of your answer—almost like responding to your own question. It ensures your response stays clear and focused.
- Embrace meaningful visibility: I've always valued my privacy, especially online, and I was initially concerned that the article would gain significant visibility. Thankfully, the experience has only brought positivity, personal growth, and humor. Rather than shying away from an online presence entirely, I'm focusing on cultivating quality visibility while maintaining a level of privacy.
"Being nervous is not a sign of weakness; it is the heart's way of preparing for the greatness we are destined to achieve." – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.