I-FOCUS-CS Scholars
The general comments below are from students and they are very positive. The students are enthusiastic about computer science and passionate about technology and problem-solving. They appreciate the opportunities provided by the scholarship, which have helped them alleviate financial stress and focus more on their education. The students have diverse interests in different areas of computer science, including data structures and algorithms, web and mobile application development, software engineering, back-end web development, full-stack software engineering, and machine learning. They have various career aspirations, such as working as a software engineer at Apple, pursuing a master's degree in artificial intelligence, and starting their own software business.
Here are the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship recipients (sorted by graduation year and lastname) and their stories:
Students who are currently in good standing
Jagr Pacheco
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Lehman High School in 2011. I initially enrolled at Texas State for a single semester but didn't realize what I wanted to do at the time. Afterward, I enrolled and graduated from culinary school but despite leading professional kitchens, I yearned to have a bigger impact on my community. Since I worked with computers such as building them, used various forms of computer multimedia to edit/make videos in high school, and have always been interested in cybersecurity, I decided to come back to college with a newfound perspective in Fall of 2019. Currently, I am at UTSA as a computer science major with a concentration in cybersecurity and hope to get involved in working in the public sector as a cybersecurity officer. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities I have been given thus far, especially the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship. It has helped financially ease the burden of being a full-time student but I have also built great connections with the computer science department here on campus because of it.
Martin Sanabia
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
Through my early childhood, Computer Science has always been a big part of my life. Since my early childhood I would spend hours helping out the family owned internet caffe, wasting hours messing with the computers there. Through the good and the bad computers would continue to follow me to the present day. Whether it be through playing games after a bad day, tinkering with the cool and interesting piece of software or hanging out with my friends on a call, technology always had a big impact on my life. Particularly I became passionate about how technology can connect and inspire us. To me that became the true beauty of the field of Computer Science, one which I very much wanted to be a part of. Previous to my enrollment in the degree, I did not have much prior knowledge aside from general computer knowledge and a brief course of C++. My future career goal to work on software that can help others, perhaps in more ways than one. To that end, I have acquired an internship with Dell as their mission seems to align with what I want to do and it was all thanks to the I-FOCUS scholarship, which allowed me the much needed economic relief to continue working on what I am passionate about and achieve this opportunity. I not know where this road might take me, but as long as I can help even one person, it will all be worth it.
Bryan Alvarado
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I originally took my first programming class on a whim while trying to figure out what I wanted to major in. I realized I liked it after the first day of programming when I hadn’t realized how quickly time flew and the class was over for the day. That’s when I decided to choose Computer Science as my major. I’ve enjoyed the difficult and challenging projects assigned to us and have fun trying to figure out and solve problems. After taking many classes I realized I prefer front end and UI development. I’m planning on going into Game Development after graduating and getting a job in UI. The I-FOCUS-CS scholarship helps by giving me the resources to be able to purchase books, software, and even attend extra lectures from industry professionals to help me learn whatever I can to be ready for the job I want.
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Diem Bui
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
My name is Diem, and I am a senior student majoring in Computer Science at UTSA. I have strong interest in pursuing a career in the field of software engineering, particularly as a new graduate. During the past summer, I had the opportunity to intern at eBay, where I served as a software engineer on the Seller Marketing Tools team. One of the projects I was fortunate to work on involved utilizing generative AI services. Specifically, I was tasked with developing a solution to automatically generate unique and meaningful coupon codes for over 100,000 active promotions at eBay. To accomplish this, I leveraged GPT-3.5 and employed zero-shot prompt engineering techniques to create a robust training dataset. This effort significantly enhanced the text generation capabilities of the AI model, resulting in the automated generation of coupon codes that resonated with sellers' businesses and reduced over 2,000 system errors per day. The technologies I utilized for this project included Java and SpringBoot. Additionally, I am currently working as a research assistant at UTSA, where I am responsible for developing a full-stack web application that facilitates researchers in querying and working with extensive datasets. For the front-end, I am proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React, while the back-end development involves Python, Flask, and SQLAlchemy. One of my recent tasks involves collecting and extracting data from external sources, where I apply tools like BeautifulSoup, Selenium, and Python extensively. I am particularly enthusiastic about honing my back-end development skills, but I am also open to learning and contributing to various aspects of software engineering. As a tech enthusiast, I am eager to embrace new challenges and expand my knowledge.
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Hayden Colling
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
Ever since I was young, I heard about hackers and thought the concept was interesting. So, as I grew up, I wanted to pursue a job in the cybersecurity field. In high school, they introduced us to Java and the concept of allowing the computer to do something and making it much faster was interesting. These experiences in my early life led me to choose a degree in Computer Science. Here at UTSA, they have a great computer science program and cyber security program. I'm currently taking graduate classes as an undergraduate and will continue my studies here at UTSA with a degree in Cybersecurity Science. I'm very grateful that this scholarship will help me pay for some of my future classes!
Christopher Cordova
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I took my first Computer Science class in high school and really enjoyed the logical challenges that programming presents. Given I was heavily interested in technology already, I decided to pursue Computer Science as my major in college. Since then, I have been amazed to learn all the different specializations and aspects of Computer Science. My favorite is the ability to create anything we can think of and how we continuously integrate software into our daily lives. After a successful internship in the summer of my junior year, I look forward to returning to the same company as a Software Engineer after my graduation. The hardest part of college for many people is always the financial burden and the I-Focus scholarship is an immense help to allow me to focus more on my coursework and keep me on track to fulfill my goals.
Kimberly Flores
Senior (Class of 2024)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I've been interested in computers since I got my first computer at the age of 5. I was on the fence about whether to study illustration and design or computer science in college until I joined my computer science program at Tom C. Clark High School. It was through this program that I became set on studying computer science in the future. It gave me the fundamentals of "thinking like a computer" that I needed to succeed in college. As I've progressed through my academic career at UTSA, I've found that I can combine my two passions of design and programming through front-end development and that's what I want to do in the future. I'm interested in developing intuitive user interfaces for web and mobile because I want to make computing easier and more accessible for people of all ages and abilities. The web and our mobile devices are deeply ingrained into our productivity, recreation, and learning, and we all access them through some kind of graphical user interface. The I-FOCUS-CS Scholarship has lifted the burden of studying full-time, so I can focus more on my studies and worry less about paying for school and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
Justin Gilberti
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I transferred to UTSA from Lonestar College in Montgomery TX in the summer of 2020, taking a single class. In January of 2021 I quit my job, sold my house, and we moved to San Antonio so I could go to school full time. At the time I was under the Post-9/11 GI Bill and all my school expenses were covered. I started at UTSA as an Electrical Engineering major, but upon taking Intro to Programming for Engineers I made the decision to change my major to Computer Science. It was the best decision to make, as I have found more personal enjoyment in programming. During the Spring 2023 semester my Post-911 GI Bill expired, so for Summer and Fall semesters I relied on the Pell Grant and loans to cover expenses. When the email was sent about the NSF I-Focus scholarship, I immediately signed up as the money would go a long way to covering the loan amount I had to take out. Being accepted into the scholarship program has allowed me to worry less about paying back loans after school and more about applying for full time employment and focusing on my class work for my final semester as an undergraduate. I look forward to returning to UTSA for my graduate degree while working in industry as a software engineer as I have already accepted a conditional job offer.
Salvador Lopez
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
The journey to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science has been a lengthy one. If I were to pinpoint the origin of my interest in computer science, I would attribute it to my love for video games. From there, my interest in all things technology began to sprout, ranging from computers to mobile applications. The road to pursuing an academic career in computer science was rough, to say the least. I had to drop out after my first semester of undergraduate studies due to financial reasons. Subsequently, I attempted to restart at a local community college, only to have the program discontinued. For a while, I was in limbo, wondering what I could do, until I found an opportunity I held onto here at UTSA. Fast forward almost a decade since the start of my academic career, and I am just days away from graduation. It seems almost surreal as time goes by, but I am ready for this chapter of my life to come to an end and to welcome a new one. As I look forward to graduation day, I am also excited to have a job lined up for me beginning the new year. I feel very fortunate to have these opportunities available to me, especially receiving the scholarship through I-FOCUS-CS. Having financial relief helps me stay focused on my studies and prepare myself for the industry.
Amos Munteanu
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I'm a Computer Science student at UTSA pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree. This scholarship was a game changer for me; it really took the stress off me about having to work so much while still in school. This scholarship allowed me to focus on my education so that I can further succeed. My hope is to graduate this December, and then once I start working, I'll start pursuing a master's degree part-time.
Krutin Patel
Senior (Class of 2024)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
In 2020, I successfully graduated from Georgetown High School, driven by a genuine passion for Computer Science. The allure of problem-solving captivates me, motivating me to tackle challenges head-on and devise innovative solutions. My fascination extends to the realms of data science and artificial intelligence, where I recognize immense potential in shaping the future of the tech industry. Hailing from a low-income household, the I-FOCUS scholarship not only serves as a testament to my dedication but also stands as a vital support system, easing financial burdens and facilitating the continuation of my academic journey. With this scholarship, I aspire to further my education and aim for a master's degree in AI, appreciating the profound impact it will have on my future. Gratitude fills me for the opportunities bestowed upon me and the transformative influence they wield in shaping my destiny.
Hezron Perez
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
Before I was interested in computer science, I was interested in math (and science to a similar degree), but I failed to see how I could make my skill in mathematics alone a career. Then high school came along. CAST Tech High School initially offered students three career pathways to choose from: digital art/design, business, and computer science. The one that intrigued me the most was computer science. I saw how feasible it would be to make a career out of computer science, and it contained components of logic, patterns, and mathematics which I enjoyed. I took a particular interest in an online coding website my computer science introduced me to called Codingame, which is like competitive leetcode puzzles with extra features/layers. In 2020, I started interning at a local robotics company, Plus One Robotics, where I work primarily in quality assurance and software development. From my perspective, some of the tasks I faced at work were similar to the puzzles I had completed in my free time (except now I was paid to solve these puzzles). It was here that I was introduced to a wide variety of concepts: the cloud, servers, regression testing, unit testing, CI/CD pipelines, builds, UI/UX, the frontend, the backend, scripting, containers, data collection, AI, and machine vision. At this point, my decision was cemented. This would be the field of my choice - I was going to pursue a degree in computer science. Now that I’m about to graduate with my undergraduate degree, I will go on to pursue my graduate degree in computer science at UTSA. After that, I could see myself working full-time at Plus One Robotics or HEB, but I’m open to other opportunities. Receiving the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship is definitely motivating, knowing that others see potential in my future. This scholarship also encouraged me to ask my professors more questions about academics, education, and industry, after which I received some much needed answers.
Erasmo Sanchez
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
As a child, I was always passionate about technology, but it wasn't until my junior year of high school that I discovered my love for programming. During that pivotal year, I joined a robotics team and took on the role of the sole programmer, stepping in after the previous one graduated. I taught myself programming by watching tutorials on YouTube. After completing high school, my mentor recommended that I pursue the computer science program. Being part of the CS department has been a rewarding experience, and I am genuinely enthusiastic about everything it encompasses. The I-Focus-CS Scholarship would greatly support my academic journey, enabling me to concentrate on my studies, secure an internship, and pursue a future career, ideally with the NSA.
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Jeffrey Stapleton
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
My academic journey at the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a concentration in Computer Science and a focus on Cyber Security, has been more than just a pursuit of knowledge—it has been a journey driven by a profound fascination with the transformative power of technology. My engagement with Python, for instance, began with a challenging project that required innovative problem-solving. This experience was a turning point, inspiring me to delve deeper into the realms of Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity. It not only honed my technical skills but also fueled my passion for pioneering solutions in technology. Diverse experiences in programming and technology have been pivotal in shaping my perspective and capabilities in this rapidly evolving field. Each coding challenge, each project, has not only advanced my technical acumen but has also reinforced my ambition to contribute significantly to the tech industry. These experiences have solidified my resolve to use technology not just as a tool, but as a means to drive positive change. Looking to the future, I am determined to forge a path that intertwines a technology-driven career with continued education in Artificial Intelligence. I am captivated by AI's potential to revolutionize how we solve complex problems and improve human life. My aim is to work in the industry while pursuing a master's degree in AI, focusing on developing solutions that enhance human well-being and societal progress. The I-FOCUS-CS Scholarship has been a cornerstone of support at this critical phase of my journey, easing financial burdens and enabling me to focus on my goals with undivided attention. This scholarship has been more than financial aid; it has been a vote of confidence in my potential. I am immensely thankful for this support, as it bolsters my commitment to achieving excellence in the field of Computer Science and making a meaningful impact on society.
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Litzy Zelaya
Senior (Class of 2024)Entered in Fall 2023, Currently in Good Standing
Major: Computer Science
I am drawn to computer science for its limitless potential in innovation and problem-solving. My high school programming experiences ignited my passion, leading me to contribute to practical projects, like a mobile app for a local organization. With a keen interest in pursuing a career that addresses real-world challenges, this scholarship is vital in supporting my educational journey and providing the resources needed to make a meaningful impact in the field of computer science.
Students who graduated
Keegan Knisely
Junior (Class of 2019)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Fall 2019
Major: Computer Science
I decided to major in Computer Science because it would be the most advantageous to achieving my goals. I am interested in working for the United States government's defense network. To work for The US Department of Defense or the NSA would be my main goal. Any way I can help protect this country. I was previously in the United States Air Force and currently a student under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. This scholarship will be helpful in keeping me from being required to get a full time job. As a married man with 2 kids, anything that can help financially and also increase the chances of success and the expedience of completion is always welcome. My previous experience with CS is the transfer classes I've taken and the courses I've completed here at UTSA. I've also learned much from my experiences in the Air Force.
Richard Dreyer
Junior (Class of 2019)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Fall 2019
Major: Computer Science
I grew up with computers, I like building things, I didn't quite grasp physics enough to continue trying for Computer or Electrical Engineering, and there are still emerging ideas and technologies in the field of software and computer science, so there's still room for the discipline to grow rapidly. I'm especially interested in trying to solve certain problems using math skills as I believe that is more the core of Computer Science. In past work, I've been exposed to both industry and research and was given relative autonomy in both. Industry is less stressful while research is far more rewarding when things work and demoralizing when it doesn't. What I need is at least a Bachelor's from a recognized institution at a minimum to finally be able to work in these fields, but to me the more interesting areas (Penetration Testing, Database Architecture, Machine Learning, etcetera.) are only available at the Master's level, so I may very well continue my education if the opportunity presents itself. Originally from the Bay Area of California, the high cost of living there and the opportunities offered at San Antonio brought me here. With the I-FOCUS-CS Scholarship, this will help me afford education as well as make available opportunities outside of core academics to learn as much as possible about the current state of the art of the discipline of Computer Science.
Zach Carson
Junior (Class of Fall 2020)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Fall 2020
Major: Computer Science
I enjoy solving problems. Out of all the fields of study, computer science is the only one where I'm free to explore. There is vert little restrictions to what I can do. Another reason I am interested in computer science is how much of an impact I can make on the world with it. Technology is deeply rooted in our society and it is constantly evolving. The smallest innovation in the Computer science field can drastically change the dynamics of our world and it is something I want to be a part of. Learningis essential to being able to inovate for the future. Either academic research or entrepreneurship. When I graduate from utsa I want to be in a position where I am able to research and develop new techniques and technology that can make a lasting impact In the world.
Jennifer Nguyen
Junior (Class of 2020)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Spring 2020
Major: Computer Science
I was first introduced to this subject matter by a Female Teacher back in the year 2015. She told me that I was bright in problem-solving and I was passionate enough to be odd amongst the evens. Being a blank canvas at the time, I was unsure of what career to pursue much like my peers around me. However, the words she spoke at that time were very enlighting as they were confusing. It got me curious about the possibilities on the matters she taught. The terms "Computer Science" is a very broad umbrella for the uncountable and diverse fields I soon discovered. It has allowed me to continuously re-discover the mechanics of the worlds. It makes me question myself and the way I had subjectively thought about the smallest and most random thing. The studies of Computer Science was my gateway. I want to see how far I can go. I am currently trying to pursue a summer internship for the year 2019 to gain experience in the working field. In the Fall of 2018, I am prioritizing my academic first, however, I will be working on gaining an on-campus job that deals with my field of study if there are openings available. I am considering concentrating in Data Science.
Tiffany Tsai
Junior (Class of 2020)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Spring 2020 (MS 2022)
Major: Computer Science
Many factors contribute to why I am interested in designing and developing computer software. While I enjoy the logical challenges within computer science I also relish the creative work, which fits in with my love for Drama and my enjoyment of drawing. Computer Science impacts every part of our lives from banking to the way we play music; from animated films and video games to databases and its importance will only grow every year. I want to be part of computer science's progress into the future. To broaden my ability I would like to learn to develop advanced software to solve real-life problems. I have just started to learn C++ giving me more tools to use and a greater sense of control when creating software as well as a different approach to solving problems like when my friends ask me for help. I would like to learn other languages to aid my ability in designing software. Within university I hope to learn about designing and building software for computer systems, learning from the expertise of experts in the field. My ability to think consciously about the creative work and my teamwork skills will surely aid me in creating my own software in the future. Studying computer science will advance my skills and ability to build new innovative programs which I have begun to experience when programming in Python.
David Akusu
Senior (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Stony Point High School. I remember taking a computer science elective and I was very confused at all the different programming concepts but I was also pleasantly intrigued. Fast forward to college at the University of Texas at San Antonio, I've taken various classes ranging from systems programming to game development to database systems and so forth. I've excelled during my college career for various reasons but prominently because I have a vast interest in technology which enables me to consistently ask questions. I'm currently a Cyber Security Intern at MITRE where I've worked on projects ranging from python development for web crawling tools to intensive web development for usability testing. I've also done research on usability testing. My future plans including building my professional catalog in industry, managing my own projects one day, and possibly creating my own startup. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals currently and in the future. It will motivate me to finish my senior year strong and start my career even stronger.
Christian Bargraser
Sophomore (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Spring 2021 (MS 2023)
Major: Computer Science
I have been taking programming classes since I was in the tenth grade in High School. I was first introduced to Java when I took a Computer Science class my tenth-grade year. I really enjoyed programming and decided to take AP Computer Science my eleventh-grade year. Towards the end of the school year, I took the AP Computer Science exam from College Board and got a 4. In order to further my understanding of Java, I took Pre-AP Computer Science 2 my twelfth-grade year and learned more advanced topics such as game development, threads, and user events. Around this time, I decided that I wanted to major in Computer Science. My studies have continued here at UTSA where I have taken Intro to Programming 1 and Intro to Programming 2. I am currently in Data Structures, where I am learning how to use data structures and efficiently manage memory. I know that I have barely scratched the surface of the vast world of Computer Science and look forward to taking upper division courses. These courses will teach me the advanced skills and concepts required for specialized jobs. When I first came to UTSA, I aspired to become a Software Developer for a company such as Google or Oracle. However, I am very interested in Cyber Security and I think that I may end up pursuing a career in the field. My dream is to someday work as a Cyber Security Analyst for the FBI or NSA. The upper division courses I'll take in the upcoming years will prepare me for such a job. Prior to being awarded the I-FOCUS-CS Scholarship, I did not know how I was going to pay for the remainder of college. This scholarship has given me the reassurance that I will be able to complete college. The I-FOCUS-CS scholarship has given me the opportunity to attain a higher education and to someday make important contributions to the worlds of Computer Science and Cyber Security.
Derek Cox
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Fall 2021
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Byron P. Steele II High School in 2018. I will be studying Computer Science at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship will help me attain my dream. My introduction into Computer Science was at a summer coding camp and technology has always been an important part of my life. Software has always interested me the most out of tech because of its ability to make any hardware better and its ability to be adapted to ones intent. I love problem solving and creating things that can help people and Computer Science is the perfect path to fulfill my interests. Various technologies like algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, and cyber security are exciting to me and I would love to work with them. My future career goals after graduation are to commission in the U.S. Air Force or work with the Department of Defense as a software engineer, cyber security engineer, or any computer science jobs that the country needs at the time. After about 20 years of service to my country, I would love to join a company like Google or a startup as a software engineer to work on beneficial projects like Artificial Intelligence or new algorithms to help the world. Computer Science will allow me to carryout my passion of technology to help the world and the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship will help me accomplish it. I am very grateful for this opportunity and excited to be able to achieve my dream.
Brent Delia
Senior (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
I initially self-taught myself programming in junior high to make games. I started taking CS courses in high school, where I took interest in problem solving and was heavily involved with UIL competitions. Learning everything I did about programming just felt so natural, like it was geared for me. This was when I wanted to major in CS and further took my education to UTSA where I transferred to in Fall 2019. At UTSA, I am very involved with ACM and I'm currently the director for ICPC, an ACM subgroup where we focus on problem solving and compete against other universities across the region, state, and world. As of now, my goal with CS is to learn as much as I can, and to make an impact in the technological industry. What I love about CS is how much you can make with it; it's hard to choose what exactly I want to do with it because I love everything about CS and all the types of applications you can make with it. I'm very grateful for I-FOCUS because this will help me fulfill my journey to learn and grow as a computer scientist.
Alexandra Garcia
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Refugio High School in 2018.I became intrigued with computer science when I began to question how a computer functions. We are constantly surrounded by technology, although not many people could tell me how technology is put together and how code makes technology perform different tasks. Soon after I found Computer Science and knew that was the major I wanted to pursue. Since we did not have an actual class in high school to learn about computer science, I took it upon myself to learn during my free time. I participated in the University Interscholastic League(U.I.L) computer science team to increase and challenge my knowledge of computer science. I placed 6th my Junior year and 4th my Senior year. I am aiming to get my Bachelors degree or a higher degree in computer science. I hope to one day create programs and be confident in my skills. I would want to have a job where I am happy at and support my family. I would love to become a software engineer or be in cyber security. This scholarship has not only given me the financial support to accomplish my dreams, but also the emotional support. I did not think I was capable of pursuing a major in computer science or even attending a university. Although, the support I have inspires me greatly to believe in myself and make any dream possible.
Victoria Garcia
Senior (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
During my senior year of Communications Arts High School, we were given a senior project of finding a mentor in our future career. As a last resort, I chose computer science. Back then I was hardly familiar with computers or programming. After working with my mentor and building a website, I knew that this was my future career. I loved the process of building an idea from scratch, all the way to watching it become a useful product. As a student in computer science, it has challenged me in more ways than I imagined. I've gained important skills that will further me in my future career. After being exposed to the industry through four internships, I am looking forward to graduating to join the industry. Through my experience, I am most interested in Cloud Computing. I find Cloud Computing so fascinating as major technology companies, continue to rely heavily on it. Computer Science has a wide range of fields that will fill my passion for software engineering that could possibly change the world. With the I-FOCUS-Scholarship it will allow me to continue my education and reach my future goals.
Gabriel Kao
Senior (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
After getting a degree in Marketing and experiencing the field first-hand, it was abundantly clear that A) marketing wasn't for me, and B) that Data Science played a strong role in the success of marketers and the company alike. This was the genesis of my interest in Computer Science. Soon I'll be graduating with my degree with a concentration in DS and I'm currently interviewing for opportunities in Austin (pandemic-be-willing)! One key to success has been being able to stay laser-focused on fast-tracking my education, and I'm grateful to the I-FOCUS program for taking a bit of the financial burden off of my shoulders and allowing me to hone in on what's important.
Brian King
Junior (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
I chose the computer science field because I had a yearning to build things and with a computer, I would have all the tools I would need at my fingertips. I never had any prior experience with computers, and only had ever used them in the most basic sense to perform job functions. I had no idea how complex and challenging the systems and field were and now I am hooked. My favorite thing about computer science is how much I still don’t know and programming. I love learning and no matter what I am working on there is still things that make me want to research further and understand more. As a non-traditional and first-generation student, I am so grateful for the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship and how it has enabled me to continue my studies in computer science. During my current studies I have concentrated in software engineering and love all aspects of engineering process. My goals are to further pursue my education after obtaining my undergraduate degree, work on personal projects and build software in industry.
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Elijah Lozano
Senior (Class of Spring 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2021
Major: Computer Science
My whole life I have had a fascination with technology and computers. I remember my family getting our first desktop PC back in 2005 or so. I didn't know why I thought it was so cool but I knew I wanted to be on and it and explore everything it could do. Fast-forward to my second year at Lakeview college, I was a Finance major-to-be and in a business applications class. My professor was highly passionate about technology and went into a brief history of computers. He was the first person who taught me that computers only understood binary, 1s and 0s. I found myself captivated and inspired by his excitement and optimism about computers. One day, as class went on and my professor would have his moments of excitement talking about technology, I questioned myself: Why am I not studying this? My interest was clearly so strong that that's all I wanted to learn about. So, that day I went to the main office and changed my major to Computer Science. I haven't looked back. CS truly has become my destiny's calling, it's what I know I'm meant to do. I knew I wanted to be a programmer as soon as I read a description of what one does. I am grateful for Professor Helinsky's influence on me and my love for CS has only grown stronger as I have progressed. Transferring to UTSA was difficult, because we learned C++ and Java in my programming fundamentals classes at Lakeview. Data Structures was taught in C, a language quite frightening to someone who only is used to high-level, beginner programming. I ended up having to drop DS to take Programming II at UTSA so learn C. And learn C I did. With a passionate determination, I became very comfortable with pointers by practicing and focusing with all of my will. I came back to DS and aced the course. From then on, I got great satisfaction in learning the more complex data structures with their accompanying algorithms. I was on my way to becoming really good! Something I have always wanted. I didn't just want to be good, I wanted to be great. And that is something I still strive for to this day. Presently I am in my final year at UTSA, about to graduate with my B.S. in CS and Software Engineering. My future plans include working locally in the San Antonio tech industry to get industry experience and progress as a software engineer. Later, I will move to Austin, Texas to work for a few companies before doing everything in my power to become a Software Engineer at Apple, where I hope to ultimately progress to Senior level at the pinnacle of my career. Some things I may do are become a professor after I retire from industry to teach the next generation of CS students, and hopefully inspire kids the way my professor inspired me. I also want to personally mentor CS students while I am in the industry. I care deeply about supporting people who are going after their dreams. This scholarship has helped me tremendously. Not having to worry about expenses to support my education is paramount. It made my stress level so much lower and helped me to stay optimistic during this incredibly difficult time we have all had with COVID-19. I am grateful for this opportunity and encourage every prospective CS student to apply and participate!
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Edward Monsibaiz
Junior (Class of Fall 2021)Entered in Fall 2019, Graduated in Fall 2021
Major: Computer Science
When I was young, I enjoyed creating a lot of different things; Drawings, comics, animations, music and board games. When I was 13, I wanted to create a video game for me and my friends to play. I ended up creating a video game with high level programming skills and found so much enjoyment in creating my own video game program. Years pass by and I almost forgot my passion for creating programs until I reached 19 years old at college. I took a computer science course to find out if this was the major I wanted to enroll in and was immediately immersed in coding. I knew this was my passion and decided to major in Computer Science with a concentration in Software Engineering and Cyber Security. I love CS because it is like an art form. There is no right or wrong way to code, but there are ways to improve your code, and if you are creative enough, you can find new and innovated solutions to real-world problems. It is also engaging to find out how the inner connections of a computer work, or how a web server can be hosted which has always been a mysterious for as long as I could remember. I thrive on teamwork driven projects and plan to one day join a software development team in software programs or web servers. Thanks to this scholarship, I will achieve my goal in one day becoming a software developer. If it weren’t for this scholarship, I would have dropped out of college as I had no means of supporting myself through rent and college because I unfortunately grew up in poverty and struggled keeping myself afloat with a paycheck to paycheck job. Now I’m able to focus on what I really enjoy, in studying computers and the science behind it. I am very grateful for the opportunity I-FOCUS-CS has provided for me.
Alana Quinones Garcia
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Summer 2021
Major: Computer Science
I do not have a lot of experience in the Computer Science field because I only recently discovered my passion for the subject. However, once I discovered said passion, I took the only possible action I could at the time which was to enroll in an Introduction to Computer Science class during my senior year of high school. Moreover, I have experience in other STEM fields because I have taken college level dual-credit Biology, Chemistry, and Calculus classes. I am interested in studying Computer Science not only because am I intrigued by the development of popular applications and the software that I use on a daily basis but also because I want to learn how how to develop said applications and said software. Overall, studying Computer Science would allow me to satisfy my innate curiosity regarding the subject while also allowing me to make significant technological contributions to the world around me. In the future, I hope to become a program developer or a software engineer who constructs applications that help better the world around me. Additionally, I hope to become a prevalent female voice in the Computer Science field in order to show other women that they can pursue their goals in a male-dominated field. The I-FOCUS-CS scholarship will help me reach the aforementioned goals because it will alleviate some of the stress I have regarding my financial situation and allow me to focus more on the ways that I can better my studies and my future career.
Kathryn Dyches
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Floresville High School in 2018. I've taken computer science classes throughout high school, as well as supplementary courses on Codecademy in my free time. I've always enjoyed learning about programming, ever since I was a child scouring the internet for the secrets behind my favorite video games. The endless possibilities of technology fascinate me, and I think I have the potential to contribute innovative new ideas to the field of computer science through research opportunities at UTSA. My ultimate dream would be to develop software for Microsoft or Google, hopefully inspiring others to follow their dreams along the way. The I-FOCUS-CS scholarship will help me take the first steps into my bright future.
Katie Kalthoff
Junior (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I am from Pearsall, Texas and graduated from Pearsall High School in 2018. I was initially introduced to programming and computer science through the Pre-freshman Engineering Program. In my 4th year of PREP, I was introduced to python and wrote my first program on a Raspberry Pi. I loved that programming was both challenging and enjoyable. I also appreciated that creativity and problem solving were a big part of computer science. From then on I knew that computer science would be a field that I would truly enjoy. During the past two years at UTSA, I have learned over 5 programming languages and have developed a foundation in computer science that can be applied to many different career paths. However, I am most interested in the cyber security and networking fields of computer science. I am currently pursuing the cyber operations track for my CS degree here at UTSA, and hope to become a Network Security Engineer or a Cyber Security Analyst after graduating. Outside of UTSA, I am an intern for the Department of Defense during the summers and plan to continue my career with the DoD after graduation. Another goal I have is to work towards my master's degree in CS. The I-FOCUS-CS scholarship program will help me achieve all of my academic and career goals. This program has given me the ability to focus solely on my academics and has also given me a great group of students and mentors to work with. I am so grateful to be a part of the program, and I am excited to see what my future has in store for me.
Garrett Lyssy
Junior (Class of Fall 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Falls City High School in 2018. It wasn't until my junior year of high school that I realized my love for computers. I had just built my first pc and realized that I wanted to continue learning more about computers. I knew I wanted to major in something that dealt with computers and CS fit that perfectly. I had not had experience in CS prior to college, but I love everything about CS. This scholarship progresses me towards my life long goal of working for the FBI. With this scholarship, I can focus solely on school and not have to take a part-time job in order to afford college. I look forward to what the future holds for me and graduating with a BS in Computer Science from UTSA.
Jason McCollough
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School in Spring 2018. During my time there, I have taken Computer Science 1 and Computer Science 2 (one semester). I have also taken Auto Cad as well as built and animated projects in Blender. I am interested in studying Computer Science because technology is so omnipresent in today's society. All the changes and new discoveries fascinate me daily. I want to learn more about the evolving world of technology in finer detail through a computer science major. During my time at UTSA, I want to secure internships at tech companies and even work for one sometime after graduating. In addition, I have a great interest in Artificial Intelligence so maybe I will involve myself in an AI project in the future. Being a recipient of the I-Focus-CS Scholarship will allow me to unleash my full potential in programming and studies without having to worry about funding.
Jose Morales
Junior (Class of Fall 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from United High School in Laredo, Texas, in 2017. During the last two years of high school, my mind was set on studying Mechanical Engineering since my strength was towards mathematics. During my senior year in High School, I was introduced to coding by an intro to web design course and realized technology had always been my passion. After further research, I changed paths towards Computer Science because of its diversity and problem-solving nature. So far, these three years at UTSA have taught me the real complexity and dedication the CS career path requires, and has satisfied my hunger to learn and innovate, unlike any other field. Currently, I am pursuing a cybersecurity concentration to learn how to protect computer networks and private data. With the help of the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship, I'll be able to focus more time on school and academic events, helping benefit my future career. Upon graduation, I plan to gain experience to one day work with our national government and protect the U.S. from future cyber threats. I much appreciate the help from I-FOCUS-CS!
Elizabeth Nguyen
Senior (Class of Summer 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I have been in love with programming since the eighth grade ever since I started programming Lego robots for the robotics club at my junior high. In high school I enrolled myself into a Game Development and the AP Computer Science class, so that I could learn more about becoming a developer and what fields I can explore pursuing a computer science major. I became a computer science major because I want to impact the world and help improve the lives of others through code. As a software developer for the point of sell company, InfoTouch, for the past two and a half years I have learned a lot on databases, coding procedures, software development life cycle, and the process for creating new modules. I fall more in love with technology, programming, and project management as I continue working for my degree and gaining experience at InfoTouch. The I-Focus scholarship helps me by alleviating financial strain, so that I can continue learning and refining my skills.
Seyma Oz
Junior (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
From my childhood, math and science classes were always my favorite classes and I always enjoyed solving problems and building things on my own. So, even though I have not taken any CS classes before starting college, I decided to major in Computer Science, since it would be the best fit for me. I am interested in developing AI systems, because I think it will be a big part of our lives. Also, I am tutoring some of the Computer Science courses under the I-FOCUS-CS with the happiness of helping people. For the future, my plan is to continue my education by getting a master’s degree. And after that, I would like to work in the industry. The I-FOCUS-CS scholarship will make a significant contribution to my continuing education and my future by allowing me to focus on my classes and not stressing about my financial situation.
Gilbert Ramirez
Senior (Class of Fall 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I am from California and I have been interested in computer systems since middle school. It started when I got my first virus on my home computer thanks to doing things I probably should not have. I was afraid of the scolding I would receive, so I ended up searching for tutorials and thanks to malwarebytes, my issue was resolved. Ever since then if anyone had a problem with their computer I would offer them my assistance and it would usually go well. I attribute my interest in CS thanks to my curiosity. Ever since I was small, I remember always being observant and wondered what the insides of things looked like and I remember people would make fun of my saying that I was in my imaginary world, but I really was just in thought. Although I have always been somewhat good with computers I never really got into real CS material until my college years started since my high school did not offer any classes on the subject. But I always knew that my future lied towards the CS path. But I built great foundations for CS through helping my father at his mechanic shop in high school. When I began helping him, everything was foreign to me. But as time went on, I began delivering more into the systems and understanding. What seemed like a complex system a few days ago, is now simple to understand. I believe that experience shaped me into who I am and gave me the courage that I can learn anything as long as I am persistent. In the future I will be a Cyber Security expert and hope to inspire those who may feel that they are not ‘smart’ enough to be in the field. A glimmer of hope to those that believe that they are just ‘average’ and I will show them that if they work hard they may become whatever they want.
Ian Solis
Junior (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Americas High School in 2018. Here, I discovered my passion for engineering, science, mathematics, and programming, all of which have led me to succeed in my professional endeavors. Since my childhood, I have had a deep admiration for technology and a burning curiosity to explore my abilities within STEM. From Fall 2018 to Fall 2019, I attended the University of Texas at El Paso while being employed by the university’s makerspace. It was in this space where I honed my technical skills and prepared myself for opportunities ahead. After a year at UTEP, I decided to leave my nest and made my way to the University of Texas at San Antonio, continuing my pursuit of a B.S. in Computer Science. In my time at UTSA, I have had the opportunity to work alongside very talented individuals, both in class and in my jobs as a mathematics tutor and makerspace lab assistant. Although the direction by career is heading in may be uncertain, I continue to explore the many facets of computer science, such as robotics, graphics programming, and machine learning. Through the I-FOCUS-CS program, I can pursue a career in programming with security and confidence.
Tiffany Tran
Junior (Class of Fall 2021)Entered in Fall 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
Technology is fascinating to me. Working on projects to make the world more automated and efficient is pretty exciting. There is a lot of things you can do with the ability to program and that is what excites me about Computer Science. I actually was super intimidated by computers and programming before entering college. I had felt like I was not smart enough even though I had taken Computer Programming I and II in high school. I really didn't learn anything, which led me to entering college NOT as a CS major. I ended up realizing the major I went for was not meant for me. So by going with what interested me (technology), following the flow, I ended up in my first computer programming course at my community college. Ended up loving it and staying in CS since then. After graduating with my Bachelor's degree I plan on getting a job as a programmer and slowly working towards getting my Master's. This scholarship has allowed me to focus on school and not worry about taking an extra job to pay for tuition. This program also allows me to utilizes tutors and helpers that I wouldn't have gotten if I was not a recipient.
Hassan Ali
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
I chose computer science because I enjoy the problem solving aspect, challenging projects and it is really rewarding when you figure out how a solve them. I would love to learn more about data structure and algorithms and how it is being used to solve day to day problems like DNA sequencing, optimization of an application and memory management. Web and mobile application is another area that I would like to explore because it is an area that is rapidly growing and has become an integral part of the world that we live in today.
Stephanie Bassey
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
I came into UTSA undeclared as a freshmen with the intention of just doing my prerequisites and then going to nursing school. Around my sophomore year, I decided that was not the path I wanted to take and began to search for a major that I was passionate about or knew that I could grow to love. During that time is when I stumbled upon computer science and discovered that I have an extreme passion for technology and problem solving. Prior to changing majors, I was already working at Apple as a technical support technician and was exposed to all sorts of technology and had to problem solve daily. Because of my work experience, it made discovering my passion and switching majors that much easier. Since becoming a computer science major, I have discovered that there are so many paths that can be taken with this degree such as software engineering, cybersecurity, and so much more. There is something for everyone and every passion in computer science which is why I love it so much. Through the I-FOCUS scholarship, I have become privy to so many opportunities, was able to alleviate some financial stress, and strengthen my soft skills as well. For that, I am very grateful that I was given this opportunity because it has definitely made an impact on me. In the future, I plan on pursuing a career in software engineering and hope to one day work as one at Apple after earning my Bachelor's degree. However, no matter where I end up, my ultimate goal is to make an impact through the work that I do.
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Ahmet Bilici
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
Computer Science is a rapidly evolving field that combines creativity and innovation to solve complex problems. It is an interdisciplinary field that touches upon mathematics, engineering, physics, and other sciences, making it an exciting field to work in and that is the reason why I choose Computer Science as my major in the first place. CS is an essential field that has a significant impact on society and the economy. It has contributed to the development of new technologies and applications that have changed the way we live and work, from smartphones to self-driving cars, from social media to big data analysis, and from medical imaging to scientific simulations. All these aspects of this field motivate me to learn more about different sides of it. In terms of my future plans, I am looking forward to getting a full-time job position related to Back-End Web Development or Software Development. Besides a full-time job, I also have plans to do a master's after working for 1-2 years in the field. At the beginning of my senior year, I realized that I had to put extraordinary effort and time into my side projects and learn new skills/frameworks to boost my chances to get a job offer. The I-FOCUS-CS Scholarship helped me financially and I was able to focus more on my college education. Thanks to the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship I was able to put the hours I was working into my studies and learn/study almost all the technologies I know today. I do appreciate NSF enabling students like me to focus more on their education and worry less about surviving.
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Allison Clay
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
Growing up, my father was an Electrical Engineer. The idea of creating blueprints and constructing machines interested me. After high school I decided to study Electrical Engineering at a university. However, in the 'Introduction to Engineering' course, I soon discovered I enjoyed programming the equipment more than designing and constructing it. Thus, I changed my major to Computer Science. Soon after, I decided to focus on Software Engineering, as creating applications that users can use and benefit from felt rewarding. Full-Stack Software Engineering interests me, as synchronizing the database with the user interface is a fun challenge. There is much to learn about the technologies and skills needed for full stack development, so there no lack of concepts to learn about or worry of boredom. Receiving the NSF I-Focus-CS scholarship has allowed me to focus my effort into my school work, particularly investing more time into group application projects, rather than needing to work part-time to meet living expense demand. Currently I am looking forward to participating in a Summer Software Engineering internship, where I will gain hands-on work experience.
Javier De La Rosa
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
My main goal is to have a software business that will help companies by providing state-of-the-art machine learning and software solutions. To achieve this, I have been studying Computer Science at UTSA to develop a solid foundation in programming. During this time, I worked on many different projects from writing scripts doing some tasks to creating complex websites and mobile apps. After graduating, I will focus on the technology that I love the most is artificial intelligence. I could list the many different ways that artificial intelligence is useful, but honestly, I just find every project related to AI interesting. My plan is to specialize in machine learning by getting a master's degree in artificial intelligence. Thanks to this scholarship, I found a mentor who does research in this area, and he not only advised me on what I needed to do but also offered me an opportunity to work with him on a research project. This scholarship also helped me get more experience by allowing me to work in an internship instead of a full-time job unrelated to my field. In the internship, I have been helping a small non-profit organization. They provide culinary curriculums to schools along with the resources to teach them, and I used software to automate their processes. Since they won't need to waste time on repetitive tasks, they will be able to focus on providing their services to more schools. Aside from practicing my skills, this experience also helped me realize my passion for helping organizations and how much I love finding software solutions to solve their problems.
Edison Felan
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
For as long as I could remember, I wanted to be a Mechanical Engineer. To go out and build something, anything really. It wasn't until late middle school and high school that I was exposed to programming and Computer Science (CS) by making small fun projects. To me, CS affords me the opportunity to go into a plethora of places and use the skills I learned in various circumstances that are not all related to CS. Taking courses at UTSA has given me a ton of knowledge and starting points that I would not have found on my own. Being exposed to topics I would not have thought about has given me new ideas of fields I want to enter and the paths I want to take. Getting the I-FOCUS scholarship was a motivational boost that I needed to keep me going, and the support it gives me will continue to push me further into my goals. I cannot wait to see what my future holds for me.
Sabita Ghimire
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
During my post-high school years, I discovered my passion for coding whilst taking Java programming courses as a recreational activity. Following this experience, I made the decision to switch my academic focus from Physics to Computer Science, a field with a wide range of career opportunities including software engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, cyber security, and others. Upon transferring to University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), from Northeast Lakeview College, I gained further insight into the diverse field of cyber security and decided to do my concentration on Cyber Operations. In addition to core computer science courses, I also enrolled in specialized coursework such as Distributed and Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Unix and Network Security, Software and Malware Reverse Engineering etc. to further develop my skills and knowledge in this area. I am grateful for the I-FOCUS-CS Scholarship, which affords me the opportunity to pursue these additional classes for my concentration within the computer science program. Currently, I am serving as a Cybersecurity Analyst intern at University Technology Solutions (UTS) at UTSA. My aspirations are to pursue a long-term career in this field.
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Xavier Mejia
Senior (Class of 2023)Entered in Fall 2022, Graduated in Spring 2023
Major: Computer Science
I decided to major in computer science due to my passions for technology and creating things. My first experience with programming was during the summer of my sophomore year of high school where I started teaching myself C#, so that I can learn the Unity Engine and begin learning the fundamentals of game development. What I love most about computer science is the continuous rapid development of the field; there is and always will be something new to learn. My plans after graduation are to pursue software engineering professionally and create my own video games as passion projects. I am forever grateful for being selected as a recipient for the I-FOCUS-CS scholarship. It has allowed me to devote as much time as I can into my education, which I realize that unfortunately many others do not have the luxury of doing.
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Students who left the program
Colin Durham
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Fall 2019, part-time
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from the STEM Academy at Lee High School in 2018. I was a programmer on my school's FIRST Robotics team that same year. The previous summer, I had an internship as an IT for Bexar County. I am interested in studying Computer Science because computers have been my life. I know that these boxes of plastic and silicon have defined the present and will shape the future, and I want to be part of that body at the helm. They have helped us extend and defy our limits for over a century, and I am excited to see and discover what they will allow us to accomplish in the future. I want to learn all I can so I know what there is still to achieve. I want to get both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Computer Science. Once that's said and done, I'll delve into software engineering or something else software-related. I would love to help turn new ideas and solutions into reality. That may sound like something that's difficult, and it often is, but it's not done by one person alone. I don't have to have a high-level job in order to help. Every position has its own unique purpose, and I'm itching to take whatever position I'm needed in to help bring about changes for the better.
Kassie Garcia
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2022, 4yr+, Graduated in Fall 22
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Earl Warren High School in San Antonio, Texas in 2018. During my senior year I took Computer Science Pre-AP, as well as participated in U.I.L. CS Academic events. When it comes to computer science, I am keen on coding arithmetic, the feeling of making everything from scratch, and the diversity of directions computer science has to offer. Personally, I view coding as an art form. There's so much room for creative expression within computer science, and I definitely plan on taking a creative path within the CS field. My goal is not only to mix the arts and coding together, but to develop helpful programs catered to those that don't get enough attention when it comes to the STEM programs/inventions (women, minorities). I am very grateful to have I-FOCUS-CS supporting me of this journey, and cannot wait to see where the help of this scholarship will lead me.
Jarrett Homan
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2020, Graduated in Spring 2022
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Vandegrift High School in 2018. I am interested in Computer Science because I see the potential for computers to do so much more than they currently are. I believe that once we are able to have a computer think, behave, and act in a manner similar to humans, a whole new set of problems and solutions will emerge. I want to be apart of the technological revolution, and make my mark while we are still in the early stages of computing technology. I first started programming when I was 11 years old. Minecraft was the new hit game at the time, and I wanted to modify it to make the game more enjoyable. YouTube tutorial videos helped me grasp the basics of the Java programming language, and with it, I began to make Minecraft mods (modifications). This scholarship will help me achieve my goals by allowing me to fully devote my time to my studies, while not having to worry about how I would pay for them. It has greatly reduced my financial burden, and I am grateful for that.
Loreal Cowdery
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2019, Changed Major
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Brennan High School in 2018. I've had some experience in the STEM fields. In high school, I prepared myself by taking advanced math and science courses such as Pre-Calculus Pre-AP, Chemistry Pre-AP, and Physics. Before that, I recall working on Lego robotics at school and working with several computer programs. I am interested in studying Computer Science because I want to immerse myself in a challenging but promising environment. I want to gain important skills that will take me far in life, and this path offers several emerging careers that are competitive in a way that will make me work harder to earn a spot. I want to have valuable experiences that will impact not only me, but others as well. By studying Computer Science, I can reach these heights with more intellect and great confidence. My future career goals are to become a software developer, possibly a video game designer because I admire the creativity and skills required to create something that is truly influential. I plan on finding internships that will provide me with great experience and to define my abilities even after school. I want to earn a Bachelor's Degree, but in the future, I may strive to earn a Master's Degree.
Marissa Rodriguez
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2020, Changed Major
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Travis Early College High School in 2018. Throughout middle school I was enrolled in technology centered classes where I was able to create blog posts, learn about computer hardware, and plan, film, and edit my own videos. In high school I took a basic IT class during my 2017 Fall semester at San Antonio College. Ever since I was younger I have always had a passion for learning and exploring anything that involves technology, primarily computers. I am always amazed at how far modern technology has come and I am excited to see how it will further develop in the future. Studying computer science will give me the opportunity to gain extensive knowledge on a subject that I have naturally come to appreciate not only for its functional purposes but also for its intricate yet artistic manner with a wide range of abilities to digitally store and create new things. I hope that in the future, after completing my degree, that I will be able to contribute to society by using my knowledge of computer science to create things that will serve a purpose to many people. After attending UTSA, and turning one of my life long passions into my future career, I would like to find a job that allows me to either live in another country or travel the world. Some career options that I have considered thus far include working for the federal government as an information system security specialist who manages global affairs, since I am also planning to minor in international studies. I would also love to work with big companies such as Google, Youtube, Twitter, and Apple as a data and information security manager or being part of a software engineering team. There are many plans and expectations that I hold for my future and I am fully aware that I have the potential to do great things with my life, starting with achieving a higher education through the amazing opportunity that this scholarship has given me.
Andres Roldan
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2019, Changed Major
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from the School of Science & Technology in 2018. Yes, I do have prior experience with STEM fields because of the school that I attended from seventh to twelfth grade. At my high school, we were given the opportunity to focus more on STEM subjects like maths and sciences. We would also do STEAM festivals annually, where we would be able to present projects about Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and/or Math. I'm interested in studying Computer Science because of a program I took part in during my last two years of high school. The program is called Alamo Academies, where I was allowed to take classes that focused more on Information Technology. After taking their computer programming class, I really want to continue learning more about it. I believe that the best way to do that would be to major in Computer Science while I went to college. My future career goal is to earn my bachelor's degree in Computer Science so that I can further my career in IT. Another one of my goals is to get a financially stable job so that I can show my parents that all their hard work really did pay off.
Israel Valdez
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Summer 2019, Changed Major
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Seguin High School in 2016, and even though it's been a bit since high school, I'm finally ready to get going on my way to a degree in CS. I took Computer Science AP in high school, and fell in love with Computer Science. Computer Science is a form of logic and problem solving that I greatly enjoyed the moment I began taking part in it. I would like to become a software developer of some kind, actually hoping that the software I develop could be video games, particularly I'd love to have my own indie studio one day. I am very grateful for this scholarship as it is a large part of how I was able to come to school this year, and I am glad that with it I'll be able to focus on my classes, and not have to be stressing over the cost of my education. I am very glad that my dreams are coming to fruition through UTSA, the computer science department, and this scholarship which will allow me to gain the knowledge I need to get the degree I need.
Corbin Adams
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Fall 2019, Changed School
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Victoria West High School in 2017. In my freshman year of high school (2013-2014), I participated in a internship at the University of Houston at Victoria that used Lego Mindstorm to explore fundamentals of code. We used both visual based and text base code to program and solve problems involving the Lego robots. Before attending UTSA, I tutored Computer Science (along with Mathematics) at Victoria College. I was first interested in Computer Science when I took a beginners course in high school as a foreign language credit. I continued to pursue computer science after this because I both enjoyed creating code and I discovered I had a natural affinity for it. I enjoy the fact that creating code is exactly that: a creation, something that can be unique, and something a creator can pour their heart into. I have also been interested in computer science because of its broad applications, it can be applied and be useful almost anywhere. After graduating with what I plan to be Bachelors Degrees in Computer Science and Mathematics, depending on my financial situation, I plan to either go straight into the workforce as a software engineer, or stay in school and study Physics/Aerospace Engineering. This is because my long-term goal is to work at a privatized space industry, possibly SpaceX or Boeing, as a Software Engineer.
Desiree Gonzalez
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2019, Changed School
Major: Computer Science
I graduated from Weslaco High School in 2018. I have taken Computer Science Pre-Ap, AP Calculus AB, BIM I (Business Information Management), BIM II, DIM (Digital Interactive Media), and Accounting, courses that my school offered me. I also took part in after school clubs such as Business Professionals of America, UIL Accounting and was awarded honorable mention from NCWIT aspirations in computing (national center for women and information technology). I am interested in studying Computer Science, because I enjoy solving problems and hope to create something that will help make a difference in the world. I hope to reach many goals in my near future, but my top two goals is obtaining a career I am passionate about and making a difference in my community through technology.
Jesus Pena
Freshman (Class of Spring 2022)Entered in Fall 2018, Left in Spring 2019, Changed School
Major: Computer Science
My interest in computers was sparked when I first got my hands on one. In elementary school, we were allowed to use the desktops only to take online tests and complete assignments on an education application. But while being an avid reader for as long I could write, these book tests were mind numbingly boring especially when you're a child who knows fully well that these computers are capable of other wonders - like video games ! Unfortunately, being caught playing games would constitute a phone call to home and a proper scolding, but my intrigue in computers had thus begun from an early age. Now an adult, my goals are to continue nurturing my interest and specialize in the cyber-security aspect of computer science. A field of enormous depth and one that is highly rewarding. But because I was fortunate enough to receive the CS-FOCUS award, dedication to the material and time spent practicing the latest penetration methods will be easier to come by. When I graduate, being employed by a company like Tesla or Nvidia to do their security networking would be fantastic. Not only because of their place in the tech community, but also because of their mission statement and achievements so far. However, I realize that it will be entirely dependent on my diligence and continued passion with computers and their potential.
