Major: Computer Science
Internships/Fellowships: Hack.Diversity, NYC Tech Talent Pipeline
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Mentor: Dr. Hunter Johnson
Career Aspiration: Software Engineer
Latinos make up just eight percent of software engineers, but Marina Avila ’24, the first in her family to go to college, hopes to improve those numbers. “I’ve always been passionate about becoming a software engineer and diversifying tech. Latinos have so much to bring to the table. That’s one of the reasons I’m so excited to be a Hack.Diversity Fellow,” says Avila. “Hack.Diversity bridges the gap for Black and Latinos driven to work in tech spaces, breaking down barriers to entry and providing a transformative learning experience. As a fellow, I’m expanding my skillset, growing my network, and connecting with leading tech companies.”
What was life like growing up?
I’m the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants who came to the U.S. hoping to provide a better life for their family. I grew up in the Bronx, in a Latino neighborhood surrounded by people from different cultures who were driven to succeed. That same drive was also visible at home, where I saw how hard my parents worked. They picked up additional work shifts so I could afford to go to college. Their hard work motivated me to excel in school, and now I hope to help my younger brother navigate his own path to college.
Why John Jay?
I was drawn to the College because of its status as a Hispanic-Serving and Minority-Serving Institution. Community is important to me, and one of the best things about John Jay is its diversity and sense of community and inclusion. As a Latina, I wanted to be in an educational environment where I felt seen and supported. The fact that John Jay and CUNY have programs, like the Immigrant Student Success Center and CUNY Tech Prep, that champion students is empowering.
When did your passion for computer science begin?
Video games were my introduction to the computer science/tech world. I wanted to explore how games were developed and how coding could bring a digital world to life. I initially dreamt of being a video game developer, so I attended a CTE (career and technical education) high school where I learned how to code. My love for technology only grew deeper at John Jay, thanks to the cryptography and machine learning classes I’ve taken with Professor Hunter Johnson. He’s made learning engaging and fun. He breaks down complicated, challenging subjects, like the foundations of artificial intelligence and cryptography, in a way that makes it easy for students to comprehend.
How has the Hack Diversity Fellowship put you on the path to success?
I’ve been given the chance to work with a cohort of aspiring software engineers and create an application that helps doctors track patient notes. The experience has allowed me to improve my skills, connect with peers, and expand my network with professionals in the field. Beyond giving fellows like me hands-on experience in coding and developing applications, the Hack.Diversity Fellowship also connects us to prestigious tech internships. We’re currently in the process of conducting mock interviews and securing internships for the summer.
In 10 years, where do you see yourself?
I see myself as a software engineer at JP Morgan Chase, where I’ll create and develop user applications. I hope to inspire Latinos who want to work in the technology field. We have so much to offer.
