At 18, I would not define myself by a single passion or career path, and that, for a long time, felt like a disadvantage. I have always been deeply curious: I paint, I write, I debate, I explore politics, and I constantly seek new challenges. If you had asked me to summarize my interests in one word, I wouldn’t have been able to. But over time, I realized that curiosity itself is an identity, and one that would ultimately shape my journey to the TechGirls Program.

Choosing Honesty Over Perfection

When I first heard about TechGirls through a close friend, I was immediately interested—but also intimidated. It is a highly competitive program, and even among talented applicants, many do not make it past the interview stage. Like many students, I initially felt pressure to “fit” into what I believed the program was looking for: a clear, linear passion for STEM.

However, when working on my application, I made a deliberate choice—I would be honest.

Instead of limiting my profile to a single narrative, I presented everything that defines me. I spoke about my interest in medicine and programming, as well as my passion for debate, political systems, art, and writing. I refused to simplify my identity into something more “acceptable.” While I received advice to narrow my focus, I chose authenticity over strategy.

Looking back, I believe that decision made all the difference.

The Power of Being Multifaceted

There is a common misconception that successful applicants must appear perfectly aligned with one field. In reality, what I learned is that interdisciplinary curiosity can be a strength. My interests in politics, for example, allowed me to think critically about how STEM intersects with society—how systems of power and policy shape technology, healthcare, and innovation.

During my interview, I reinforced this idea not just through my words, but through my environment. Behind me were my paintings, my photography, and pieces of my writing—visual proof of the many dimensions of who I am. When asked about my interests, I did not filter my response. I shared everything.

And that honesty resonated.

Facing Fear in the Interview Process

Despite my preparation, the interview was one of the most challenging parts of the process. At one point, I was asked a complex political question, one that required not only critical thinking, but also courage. As someone aware of the potential biases within institutional spaces, I hesitated. I wondered whether expressing my true opinion could negatively affect my chances.

Still, I chose to answer truthfully.

I spoke about my perspectives, connecting them to broader issues such as empathy and social dynamics. Even though I felt I had not articulated my answer perfectly, I stayed grounded in my values. When the interview ended, I was convinced I had not done well.

I was wrong.

From Doubt to Acceptance

When I received my acceptance to the TechGirls Program, my reaction was not immediate excitement—but relief. For days, I had been overwhelmed by doubt, replaying every answer, every pause, every imperfection. The acceptance felt like a quiet validation: I had been enough all along.

That moment changed the way I see myself, not just as an applicant, but as a person.

Beyond STEM: A Human Experience

Participating in TechGirls was not only about developing technical skills; it was about understanding people, cultures, and perspectives. One of the most important lessons I learned is that STEM does not exist in isolation; it is deeply connected to human experiences, inequalities, and global realities.

Through collaboration, conversations, and shared challenges, I saw how diverse backgrounds shape our approach to problem-solving. It reinforced my belief that innovation requires not just technical knowledge, but empathy and openness.

A Message to Future Applicants

If there is one lesson I would share with anyone considering applying to programs like TechGirls, it is this: do not disqualify yourself before even trying. Fear is often the biggest barrier, not lack of ability. Many people decide not to apply because they assume they are not “good enough.” But the truth is, growth comes from taking that first step, even when the outcome is uncertain. You do not need to have everything figured out. You do not need to fit into a single category. You only need to be willing to try and to be honest about who you are. Because sometimes, what makes you feel uncertain is exactly what makes you stand out.