Shaniah Reece

CWIT Scholar, C18
Major: Information Systems
Expected Graduation: 2023

Meaningful work is incredibly important to me. The worries about choosing the right career has no doubt plagued me. Information Systems has provided the perfect opportunity for me to think outside the box and to consider what I learn as a tool rather than pre-requisites for a predetermined role. I thoroughly enjoy that I can explore my passions because of the diversity of the content taught in the major. Now I am considering roles or passion projects that brings the technical realm into issues that I care about. For example, I am considering applying course content to Biases in AI or researching how biased data reinforce and make harmful predictions in our world. As an aspiring Data Scientist, it is great to feel equipped with multiple perspectives and thoughts that are not only major specific but helps me understand issues in a wider context. CWIT and COEIT has also helped me to consider being a mindful contributor and to consider the cost when making changes in the technical realm. I would definitely recommend challenging yourself to have different experiences and to open yourself up to different perspectives you are still thinking about or considering what you’d like to do with your major or career.

Other Facts

Past/Current Research

Worked with a graduate student to level data that would find solicitors of illegal substances online

Past/Current Internships

  • Desktop Student Technician, DOIT
  • Data Science Fellow, UMBC Data Science Corps
  • SIParCS Intern, National Center for Atmospheric Research

Campus Involvement

  • International Students Connect, President
  • STRiVE and ASB Participant, Center for Democracy and Civic Life
  • Resident Assistant, Erickson Hall
  • Member, WiCys

Future Plans

After graduating I am hoping to pursue a M.S/PhD in Data Science.

Additional Information you’d like to connect with other Scholars about?

How to find balance between school and everything else! Or, the importance of taking time to explore other experiences to find meaningful work in your major.

What is your favorite part about CWIT?

My favorite part about CWIT is how actionable the community is. Being a Junior and student advocate and realizing just how open the community is to listen, to hear and to change to make sure everyone is included and feels safe is beyond amazing and unique. It is so much easier to connect and feel like you belong when you know that you’re in a community that cares about you and the issues that affect you.

Describe a faculty or staff member who has made a positive impact on our time at UMBC

Dr. Sanchez has been my faculty mentor since Freshman year. She has been incredibly supportive, relatable and human in her mentorship. There isn’t a time that I’ve reached out to her and not felt heard or supported. Even after changing majors, I can always count on her for help in anything, whether it is just to talk, to find internships or career recommendations. She is beyond passionate about her job and even more passionate about the students and community she serves. I am so grateful for the support that I’ve received from her especially during my Freshman and Sophomore years.