In 2019, I walked across the stage at New York Tech while my family cheered from the crowd. As one of the first in my family to graduate from college, after my mother, I knew how much that moment meant to us. What they couldn't see was that I still had classes to finish before receiving my degree. I felt proud and unsure at the same time.

Back then, I thought I had to figure everything out on my own. That belief followed me long after college.

After earning my B.S. in Information Technology, I began my career in engineering. When the pandemic changed my early career plans, I looked for other ways to use my skills. I taught myself web development and built an online store. That experience made me think beyond the code: What makes someone want to use what you build?

In summer 2026, I returned to New York Tech with that question in mind. Today, I'm in the first M.S. in Digital Product Design cohort, learning user experience and product management. I'm also building an AI project that reads company financial reports and helps people understand complex information. I used to focus on whether I could build something. Now I'm just as interested in whether it solves a real problem.

Something else changed, too: how I connect with people. I once sent around 40 job applications in four days and got no interviews. Now I go to events, ask professionals about their work, and listen before asking for anything. Those conversations have led to referrals and new connections. I haven't landed my next role yet, but I'm no longer trying to get there entirely alone.

I also work as a graduate assistant with Career Success and Experiential Education (CSEE) and the Office of Student Employment (OSE). I wish I had understood these resources sooner. CSEE helps students with resumes, career advising, internships, and connecting with employers. OSE helps students find paid on-campus jobs and understand the hiring process. Through Handshake, students can search for opportunities and book career appointments.

If you're unsure where to start, you don't need a perfect plan. Visit CSEE or OSE on the New York City or Long Island campus. Ask a question. I've learned that being the first doesn't mean you have to figure out every next step alone.