- Campus:
- IU Kokomo
What did you want to be as a child, and how has that journey led you to where you are today?
Growing up in Bangkok, Thailand, I was immersed in music and art. I don’t remember what I wanted to be as a child, but during my freshman year of high school, I took an interest in a Software Engineering elective in the Career Center. I believe my interest in the field was piqued by shows and movies centered around badass women hacking computers (unrealistic expectations from film portrayals, I know). The fact that it's predominantly a male-driven profession also heightened my desire to pursue it. This class exposed me to basic coding, diverse software, game development, and my first experience with a 3D printer. That initial spark led me to pursue more challenging courses and eventually study Informatics/Computer Science at Indiana University Kokomo.
My experience at IU Kokomo was my life's most challenging and rewarding time. As a full-time student at 18, I learned to live independently and financially supported myself with three part-time jobs. I started to lose balance and struggled in class. Eventually, the battle with my self-motivation and mental well-being made me question my path. It took me losing my grants and scholarship due to poor academic performance to wake up and realize I needed to change everything.
In 2019, I renewed my commitment to pursuing my Informatics degree. I became more involved in the Women in Technology Club and Computing Club, collaborated with faculties, engaged in IUURC research projects, competed in the National Cyber League for three consecutive years, and served as an NCL coaching assistant in my senior year and a semester post-graduation.
In 2021, my internship at Solidarity FCU led to the Gerald L. Bepko Advanced Visualization Internship with UITS Kokomo. I’m deeply thankful for my now-colleague and manager, Kathy Kennedy, and director of UITS Kokomo, Craig Swoverland, whose guidance has been invaluable in ensuring I recognize the worth of my skills and achievements. After the internship, I transitioned to a part-time student web technician role. A year later, after earning my bachelor's in informatics, I became a full-time Web Administrator, where I continued to collaborate with those I met during my formative stages.
Could you explain some of the responsibilities of your role at IU?
At Indiana University, I serve as the Web Administrator for the Campus Gateways (formerly Regional Campuses Division) under the Enterprise Experience Design and Development Team. My responsibilities encompass maintaining and administering regional campus sites, primarily for IU Kokomo and IU Northwest campuses. I oversee web content, ensuring our pages meet accessibility standards, manage quality control operations, and assist staff and faculty with their specific website needs. Additionally, I'm proud to be an active member of the IUWIT steering committee thanks to my introduction to Renée Petrina from the IUWIT leadership team at IU Kokomo’s Tech Fair!
Do you have any advice for other women in IT?
Connect, connect, CONNECT!! Reach out to an organization that stimulates your interests or engage with professionals in your field. You will gain a more in-depth pool of knowledge and perspective that can significantly enrich your own journey.
Is there a role model you look up to in your personal or professional life?
I deeply admire my mom as my role model. She’s incredibly selfless and kind, and I will always strive to embody the patience and empathy she gives to everyone around her.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy being around my friends and doing most things in nature like camping, hiking, and kayaking (or any type of water activity). I also love singing and playing the guitar and piano!