As the demand for skilled professionals in the technology sector continues to rise, so too does the importance of fostering inclusive and diverse environments. One individual who exemplifies the push for progress is Isabela Antoniuk, a senior at Brown University, an accomplished athlete, and a Computer Science (CS) major.
Her story with The Percentage Project—a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying diverse voices in STEM—sheds light on the challenges and strides being made in tech representation.
From Inspiration to Leadership
Isabela’s journey with The Percentage Project began three years ago when she was introduced to the organization by a teammate who previously held the role of Campus Director. Initially drawn in by the powerful statistics featured in the Project’s photo gallery, she found herself shocked by the data that highlighted significant disparities within tech. As a first-generation college student whose parents had some familiarity with the field but lacked the resources to guide her, Isabela’s interest transformed into a deep commitment. She decided to join the project to bridge these gaps and contribute to a cause she resonated with so personally.
“The Percentage Project not only facilitates conversations around diversity but actively supports and adds resources for underrepresented students,” Isabela notes. Her involvement has had a meaningful impact on the CS department at Brown, especially through collaborations with the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Chair. Positive feedback from students who engaged with the project’s survey underscored the significance of her efforts.
Challenges in Representation and Tech Culture
From her position, Isabela has observed some recurring challenges that hinder diversity and representation in tech. One prevalent issue is imposter syndrome, a feeling that many underrepresented students experience when entering competitive academic and professional spaces. “There’s a college acceptance culture where some students feel they only got in because of [certain factors],” Isabela explains. This pressure extends to job hunting, internships, and preparing resumes—all tasks that many peers navigate with prior knowledge or support, which she didn’t have until college.
This pressure is exacerbated by a one-size-fits-all approach to career advice. The lack of tailored guidance leaves students without a clear path, contributing to high stress levels. Isabela’s experience highlights the gaps in support systems where she shares that there are social norms around when to apply for internships or how to craft resumes, but no one explains why these steps matter or when to start.
Paving the Path for the Future
Now returning for another term as Campus Director, Isabela has ambitious goals. A key focus is leveraging data collected through the project’s surveys to “increase exposure” and ensure students know about the resources available. While many resources do exist within the department, they are not always easy to find or access. Isabela aims to consolidate these resources and create centralized spaces that provide clarity.
One initiative she is passionate about is peer-to-peer office hours. Such a space would encourage students from similar backgrounds to help each other navigate shared challenges. “Many students don’t even know these opportunities are there,” she remarks. By fostering this peer-led support, Isabela hopes to cultivate a culture of mentorship and collaboration.
Looking Beyond Graduation
As Isabela interests lie in the fields of UI/UX and security, she aspires to conduct UX research that prioritizes user privacy and protects individuals in an increasingly digital world. With the rapid integration of AI technologies, she notes that people often lack awareness of how these systems work and whether they operate in users’ best interests.
She emphasizes that we need more data on how technology impacts us and whether it’s trained with our best interests in mind. Her vision is to combine her technical expertise with a focus on ethical tech practices that safeguard user trust.
Conclusion
Isabela’s journey is a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives like The Percentage Project to ignite change. Her commitment to enhancing representation and accessibility in tech serves as a blueprint for how student-led organizations can tackle the industry’s longstanding challenges. By fostering awareness, supporting peers, and championing a more inclusive tech culture, Isabela is paving the way for a future where diversity is not just discussed but embedded in the core fabric of technology education and practice.
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