Ameek Bindra is passionate about several different industries, as she dreams of a career in biotechnology combined with medicine. To set her on the path towards this goal, this New Face of Tech winner and undergraduate student at University of California Berkeley is studying data science with a concentration in biology.

What does being the New Face of Tech mean to you?

The New Face of Tech is not only an award or scholarship to me, but it’s also very humbling to see the support I am given to pursue my interests in biotechnology. I am so thankful to 1,000 Dreams Fund and Harman for helping me kick-start my dreams.

Women are underrepresented in STEAM. How can we change this?

Keep giving them amazing opportunities and support to succeed. With a lot of positivity and motivation, women can keep going and help bridge the gap.

What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

Being from a South Asian household, there are certain pressures to be academically successful but also maintain Indian values. Balancing the two has been tough for me — as has consolidating what I would like to do with my career.

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

I like to write out all my goals on a white board and keep it in my room to look at. It motivates me to see it all written out.

How will funding from the 1,000 Dreams Fund and HARMAN help you reach your goals?

The 1,000 Dreams Fund and HARMAN will help me reach my goals not only through this scholarship but also with support in finding more opportunities to engage in biotechnology.