Meet Crystal C. (she/her), a New Face of Tech winner who is studying Computer Information Systems at Baruch College.

What is your dream?

I would love to become a part of operations and community management at an organization. I currently do tournament organization and I used to do community management, but only part-time. I’d love to use my data analytical skills and programming knowledge to streamline operations and make repetitive tasks less tedious.

Please share how you feel about the win and what impact it will have on your career.

This award fuels my education and journey in the business industry, and allows me to invest in myself and my journey. Being able to invest more time in myself, looking for new positions and opportunities while putting developing myself professionally (building my resume, networking, and attending events and workshops). This award will allow me to work less at my part-time jobs and focus more on my growth.

What advice do you have for other women reaching for their dreams?

Don’t be scared to try! Getting opportunities takes effort and persistence. All of the opportunities I’ve been given now are because I started out volunteering in the business scene. I was able to build my network — and, eventually, as I got to know more people, I was able to secure my position as a tournament organizer for a collegiate league. Being kind to others can speak volumes.

If you don’t try, you’ll miss 100% of the opportunities out there. Don’t be discouraged by rejection either, it happens in everyday life. Think of what you could do to make yourself better, and ask for feedback.