Over the next four weeks, as we approach the commencement ceremonies for the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences Class of 2026, we will be sharing senior spotlights featuring some of our exceptional students from each CEMS program.

How did you choose your major?

I chose computer science as my major because of a CS class I took my freshman year and I really enjoyed the problem-solving! I've really found a home in the CS department, as the professors and TAs have been really welcoming and uplifting. I'm also pursuing my Master's of Arts in Teaching (MAT) through UVM. I realized, as I got to know my professors and appreciated the work they do, that I want to be an educator.

What extracurricular organizations and activities did you enjoy at UVM?

I have been a helper for Lisa Dion's Girls Who Code Club for 4 semesters now. Girls Who Code is a club for middle school and high school-aged students. We do a coding/outreach lesson every Saturday, and it has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my college career. I have really enjoyed getting to know the students and working to create a space where young girls see themselves represented in CS.

Is there a class or professor who had a significant impact on your academic journey at UVM? 

Lisa Dion has had a major impact on both my academic growth and my career direction. In a class Lisa taught my sophomore year, she gave a short presentation on the master's program I'm currently in and the Noyce Scholars program (a scholarship program for STEM educators). Noyce has provided countless opportunities for me to learn and grow as a future teacher. If Lisa had never told me about these programs, I don't know that I would have found my path. I now feel so excited and ready for the years to come.

Jes has been such a pleasure to have as a student! They have been facilitating my Girls Who Code club for a few years, as well as being a student in many of my classes, and they have grown so much throughout their time here. From coming to class with a cleanly shaven head after having donated their long hair, to their newfound confidence in teaching, they bring joy and belonging to all the spaces they enter.

—Lisa Dion
Senior Lecturer
Department of Computer Science

Do you have a memorable research experience from your time in CEMS?

I'm currently working on my final project for my software engineering class. We are creating a social web visualization website. My team has been really awesome to collaborate with. I love working with people, especially when we're passionate about a really cool outcome.

Has an internship helped to guide you on your career path?

I've worked part-time as a cook and in retail positions throughout college. Although these aren't technically related to my path, working in these roles has taught me to appreciate people everywhere I go.

Is there an achievement during your undergraduate years at UVM that you are particularly proud of?

My friends and I won our category for the 2025 UVM Hackathon. I also became a Noyce Scholar and recently had the opportunity to attend the Noyce Northeast Conference.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to stay in Vermont for another year to get my master's and Pennsylvania teaching certification. After that, I want to move to Philadelphia to teach high school computer science. Through CEMS, I have been a TA and participated in Girls Who Code, which has definitely prepared me in many ways to be in the classroom as a student teacher next semester. My classes and professors have also majorly built my confidence in building professional relationships.

How do you envision your future in the next five years?

I see myself as a teacher in Philadelphia. I would love to start/continue a Girls Who Code club and maybe coach field hockey and soccer. I'm excited for new friends, visits from old friends, being close to family, and starting my career as a teacher.

Is there any advice you would share with incoming first-year students?

You are not alone! You should definitely go to the office hours of professors and get to know them more personally. They are a wonderful resource and have a lot of experience and advice. Ask as many questions as you can; this is the best opportunity to learn so much from so many people.

Would you like to include any "shout-outs" to people who helped support you?

• Thank you to Lisa Dion and Regina Toolin for so much help with my grad school application and Noyce application.
• Thank you to Jason Hibbeler for being my advisor and always having an open door.
• Thank you to Jackie Horton for being my introduction to computer science.
• Thank you to Girls Who Code for showing me my path.

Do you have any parting thoughts?

I was having a really tough time when I first started college. All of the friends, colleagues, and mentors I've met through these years have changed my life monumentally. I cannot thank the UVM, CEMS, and Computer Science communities enough for their support all this time. I feel so lucky to be upheld by all of these amazing people.