Carolina, supporting women to succeed in STEM careers

Carolina is passionate about helping organisations succeed in the digital world and supporting women to succeed in STEM careers. She’s leading by example.

Carolina arrived in Australia from Colombia hoping to find new career challenges. She was working with a tech-based social enterprise when she realised that formal education in IT is needed to be considered for senior roles. A scholarship to study IT at CDU turned her dream into reality.

“I couldn’t believe it when I received the news that I’d been awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s High Achievers Scholarship to study at CDU,” says Carolina. “I’d participated in other scholarships before, but this one from CDU was different. It was an honour beyond the financial support.”

“Receiving this scholarship has given me financial security but also an incentive to keep giving my best in every aspect of my life and to help others.”

Attractive prospects

Carolina chose to study the Master of Information Technology (Software Engineering), to expand her knowledge in big data, smart cities and artificial intelligence. CDU was a natural choice.

“I decided to study at CDU because it’s an innovative and highly-ranked university with a well-designed approach for professionals like me who are looking to change careers,” says Carolina.

“CDU’s flexible study approach caught my attention because it really helps international students overcome the challenges they may have. I knew it would be a good place for personal growth too.”

While Carolina was also drawn to the beautiful campus settings, the online library resources and the partnerships with research institutes, there was another standout attraction.

“The CDU Women in STEM Strategy shows that the university commits to gender equality in STEM areas which has been one of my focuses during the last few years.”

The Darwin life

Carolina has quickly settled into life in Darwin and loves the city’s vibrancy and multiculturalism.

“The quality of life that Darwin offers to international students is better than other places in Australia,” says Carolina. “Everything is close, so it's easy to visit nearby attractions and do activities.”

The best part about living in Darwin is that it has the charm of a small city and the benefits of a large city. Being close to the sea and nature makes it so refreshing, especially if you come from a crowded place.”

A bright future

When she graduates, Carolina is looking forward to being the face of change.

“I see technology as a way to improve lives, and when I graduate from CDU, I want to work with technology-based businesses giving them the tools they need to compete in the global marketplace,” she says.

“I also hope to foster digital transformation in developing regions such as Latin America by incentivising women to get into STEM careers.”

If you’re interested in learning more about how a Master of IT can help you progress to the next level in your career, contact us today.