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Victoria Yan
Ms. Victoria Yan
Student
University of Maryland
Career Description


What I Do

I just completed a summer internship with Cisco Systems in San Jose, California as a software engineering intern. I was working on developing internal tools to be used by other software engineers to improve productivity and general performance.



Why Engineering?

I love to build and break things to make them better. My grandfather was an engineer and always stressed the importance of math, physics and having the ability to apply it to real life.



My Day At Work

I've been a software engineering intern for Cisco Systems, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and NASA. I've worked on developing tools for other software engineers, interfaces for users, and developed simulations for scientists.



The Best Part of Being an Engineer

My favorite thing about engineering is the sense of accomplishment you feel when you complete a task or project.



Challenges

It's hard being one of the few females in a male-dominated field. There have been challenges, both academic, social and personal, that everyone must conquer in order to achieve success in every field, and I feel that I'm on my way there!



My Family

My younger brother, Joe, and I both grew up in the suburbs of Maryland with our parents. My dad is a translator and my mom is a computer scientist. They both have encouraged me to follow my passions and dreams in life, and are truly the reason for all of my success.



Dreams and Goals

In the short-term, I plan on graduating with my undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and searching for my first FULL TIME job and applying to graduate schools. I want to work for a year, then pursue a Master's in Computer Science and eventually an MBA. Long-term, I'd love to pursue my interests in entrepreneurship and finance in New York City or San Francisco. Eventually, I want to have a family of my own, and get my first puppy!



Inspiration

My parents and grandparents have had such a positive influence on my life choices. They all have worked so hard so that my younger brother and I could have all possible doors open for our futures.



Hobbies

Outside of work and school, I love sports! I'm a huge Redskins, Orioles and Terps fan! I play violin, enjoy cooking, play golf, tennis, soccer and run marathons.



Want to be an Engineer?

Pursue your dreams. Don't let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do... it's for you to decide.



School Days

I am currently a senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. I'm earning a bachelor's of science in electrical engineering.





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