Published: Feb. 22, 2018

#ILookLikeAnEngineer

Why did you choose engineering at CU Boulder?

I discovered my love for math and science in High School. I visited CU Boulder when I was applying for colleges and loved it! I started out as a chemical engineering major, but I soon found out my passion for coding and switched my major to computer science. It's never too late to pursue your passion.

What does the #iLookLikeAnEngineer hashtag mean to you?

#iLookLikeAnEngineer means that I am an engineer, regardless of my gender minority and being a person of color. I may be 5 feet tall, but I certainly pack a punch! I can code just like the best of them, and I want to change the world. #iLookLikeAnEngineer means that I have the opportunity to make an impact in the world, and encourage others like me to do the same.

What are three things that make you unique?

I was adopted when I was 7 months old from Southern China, then raised right here in beautiful Colorado. I am a dancer and a gymnast! I also like to play League of Legends.

What are your career goals?

My goal is to change the world! I want to use my coding skills to join a company and make a difference in other people's lives for the better.

Do you have a favorite quote or mantra?

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind" -Dr. Seuss

What are your hobbies?

Gymnastics, dance, crafting, gaming and having fun with friends!

What do you enjoy most about engineering?

I enjoy problem solving and learning new languages.

What is your favorite engineering experience?

I think my favorite experience is seeing my projects finally come together in the end! After all that hard work, the end product is always worth it.

Do you have any advice for a freshman in engineering?

College is hard. I struggled to find my place when I first started college. I think the most important thing is to remember that you do belong here. You deserve to be here. Finding friends that believe in you and that share your values is helpful, too. Joining the BOLD Center was great for me and allowed me to find other people struggling, too. We made it through together.

Kelsey Dowd, Class of 2018, Legacy High School Graduate, Computer Science