There is often an underrepresentation of different genders in STEM fields. Computer science is no exception, but recently there has more attention that has been brought to this issue. DiamondHacks, an annual hackathon, helps underrepresented genders learn more about computer science.
DiamondHacks has contributed a way for marginalized genders, such as women, non-binary, transgender, gender fluid and gender nonconforming people, to gain an interested in computer science.
Danielle Wheeler, a fourth-year studying mechanical engineering, explained why she decided to help organize DiamondHacks.
“I think it’s a really good event to have to encourage women to get into computer science or staying in computer science,” Wheeler said.
DiamondHacks grants opportunities for participants to start networking with companies and other participants. Renee Segda, a third-year studying computer science, elaborated on why she decided to participate in DiamondHacks.
“It provides a lot of professional experience and team development which is really important for future careers, getting internships, and it looks really good on resumes,” Sedga said. “In fact, some companies suggests that participating in any sort of ‘hackathon’ increasing your chances of being able to get hired.”
Having this opportunity presented to minority genders demonstrates that anyone can get into whatever career they wish.
“It’s to encourage minority genders, not just women, to come [learn about computer science],” Wheeler said. “Computer science is mostly dominated by men so this is more to encourage other genders to [try] computer science.”
DiamondHacks presents a welcoming environment that also participants to be themselves and learn more about computer science.
Carolyn Thompson, a fifth-year majoring in design studies, said why she believed it’s important to hold an event like DiamondHacks.
“I just think it’s really valuable for people to have an environment where they see others that they identify with in a way,” Thompson said. “It helps them feel supported or [how] they aren’t the only ones who can network and learn from their peers.”
Connecting with people is a necessity, especially when trying to find a lifelong career in a STEM field.
“[My favorite thing about DiamondHacks is] probably meeting people,” Sedga said. “I’m not really a social person but getting to branch out of my comfort zone and meet really kind people who are interested in the same thing I am, it’s really nice.”
DiamondHacks also introduces participants with opportunities other than networking. Wheeler discussed some of the various events that happened over the weekend.
“We have workshops that cover different topics,” Wheeler said. “For DiamondHacks this year, we have web development, data science, and software testing. We also have companies coming in to talk to participants like Advanced Auto Parts.”
Within these workshops, participants are able to learn more about what subtopics make up computer science and the various layers that are unknown to many people. This can help decide if someone wants to have a career in computer science.
“I’m a little bit more wary about getting into web development because it’s a really complex field and it also presents many challenges that are scary and exciting at the same time,” Sedga said.
DiamondHacks shows that there’s always a way to join a field that one is passionate about, regardless of gender or self-identity.
“I just want to emphasize that everyone can come to DiamondHacks, everyone is welcome here,” Thompson said. “It is geared towards underrepresented genders in computer science [but] at the same time we welcome everyone so that they can learn from this experience too.”
DiamondHacks is an annual hackathon held at NC State University. For more information visit their website.
