From Tech Talks to Industry Inspiration: USD Graduate Students Attend Grace Hopper Celebration
At the University of South Dakota, graduate students Sheyma Abdikebir and Bidya Bhattarai, who are both pursuing a Master of Science in business analytics embodied this experience through their attendance at the 2024 Grace Hopper Celebration in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The annual celebration honors the life of Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, a tech industry leader and one of the first women to receive a doctoral degree in mathematics. A four-day gathering, it focuses on the research and career interests of women in computing, in addition to highlighting the contributions of women to the tech world.
From students to seasoned professionals, the conference brings together individuals from a wide range of cultures, career stages and disciplines, each facing unique challenges in the tech industry.
“The conference emphasized the importance of leadership, collaboration and innovation in technology. It inspired me to pursue my career goals with renewed confidence and provided actionable insights to navigate challenges as a woman in tech,” said Bhattarai.
Bhattarai, who is from Nepal, discovered the conference through her USD mentors: Thomas Tiahrt, Ph.D., associate professor of decision sciences, Barlomiej Hanus, Ph.D., associate professor of computer and management information systems, and Jewel Shepherd, Ph.D., associate dean of business graduate programs and an associate professor of health services administration.
“Their support gave me confidence to attend the conference, which exceeded my expectations with its wide range of sessions, exciting expos and networking opportunities,” said Bhattarai.
Empowering Students in Tech
With a wide range of opportunities to discover personal and professional growth—from workshops and skill-building seminars to interviews and professional development sessions, the conference empowered students in tech by providing them with essential career readiness skills, including interview preparation, resume building and skill assessments. It encouraged students to embrace new techniques, deepen their existing knowledge and explore cutting-edge technology.
“My favorite memory is being a part of this conference as a USD student. I networked with tech professionals from Amazon, Nvidia, Apple, Bloomberg and other top companies. I attended many sessions, which helped me gain new insights and speak with recruiters who took the time to speak to me about roles in their companies and what they’re looking for from applicants,” said Abdikebir. “I even had the chance to show a project I did as part of my work with Coyote Business Consulting.”
Guest speakers also painted the conference with inspiration, including actors America Ferrera and Viola Davis. Keynote speakers included Joy Buolamwini, Ph.D., artificial intelligence (AI) expert and founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, and Brenda Darden Wilkerson, president and CEO of AnitaB.org, among many featured breakout speakers.
“One of the highlights for me was the session, Concept to Launch: Producing Disney XR Content on the Apple Vision Pro, which was incredibly insightful. I was also deeply inspired by America Ferrera and AnitaB.org President Brenda Darden Wilkerson, who spoke about the power of saying yes to new opportunities while staying true to your values,” said Bhattarai.
For Abdikebir, Ferrera’s and Wilkerson’s discussion similarly resonated.
“What stood out to me was how she spoke about having the courage to go through uncomfortable scenarios. This way of thinking can help us do our best and take any challenge with confidence, with the hope of transforming things for the better,” said Abdikebir.
A Conference to Remember
As they look ahead, Abdikebir and Bhattarai are ready to take the lessons from the conference and apply them to their careers, confident the connections they've made and skills they've gained will guide them while reinforcing their tech industry perspective.
For students interested in attending the Grace Hopper Conference, Bhattarai and Abdikebir offer strong encouragement and advice.
“Consider what you aim to accomplish at this conference. Whether landing a job, learning a new skill, or expanding your professional network, reflect on how it aligns with and supports your overall goals,” said Abdikebir.
Both Abdikebir and Bhattarai believe that setting clear goals when attending the conference is essential, as the experience offers vital opportunities for students to advance their careers and build professional relationships that will shape their futures.
“Research the sessions and companies attending the conference in advance. Apply early, bring plenty of resumes, and don’t hesitate to start conversations. It’s a huge opportunity, so make the most of it!” said Bhattarai.
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