Ndeye Diop
Informatics
Q: Please share any additional academic plans (dual degree, research focus, minor, specialization, etc.) you may be pursuing.
A: I am majoring in Informatics with a focus in human-computer interaction and a minor in Data Science.
Q: Please tell us about your background and why you decided to come to the iSchool.
A: I grew up in College Park, Georgia, where underfunded schools and the lack of Black representation in STEM fields made it hard to see myself in the field. That perspective began to shift when I arrived at the University of Washington and found a community through the UW Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Attending the 2023 NSBE national conference and seeing thousands of Black students thriving in STEM, many of whom were in Informatics and data-focused fields, completely reframed what was possible for me.
I came to the iSchool because I wanted to explore how information systems can be used to empower communities like the one I鈥檓 from. Whether through teaching Python and Arduino to hundreds of underrepresented K-12 students with UW student organization, A Vision for Engineering Literacy & Access (AVELA), or conducting research on equitable AI systems that understand African American Vernacular English, I鈥檝e seen how the iSchool supports students in using tech for social good. Informatics allows me to combine my passion for education, community impact and technology. It鈥檚 an interdisciplinary program that doesn鈥檛 just teach tools, but teaches purpose as well.
Q: What excites you about the information field?
A: What excites me most about the information field is how it combines the creativity of engineering with the human side of technology. Since joining the Informatics program, I鈥檝e realized that its focus areas are represented everywhere in my life. Whether I鈥檓 working on projects that bridge technology and human needs, or learning how technology continues to shape the way we communicate, learn and solve problems, I see these connections in everything I do. It鈥檚 incredibly rewarding to be part of a field that isn鈥檛 just about coding or systems, but one that also focuses on creating solutions that impact people and make the world a better place.
Q: What about your iSchool journey thus far are you most proud of?
A: What I鈥檓 most proud of in my iSchool journey so far is the way I鈥檝e been able to integrate both the technical and human-centered aspects of the field into my work. Whether it's through my iSchool research on AI fairness and diversity, leading projects with teams or getting involved in organizations like NSBE, I鈥檝e been able to merge my passions for technology, community and impact. I'm also really proud of how I've grown as a leader, managing teams and initiatives while still being able to focus on the deeper questions of how technology can serve people. The balance between learning equally about technology and people-centered solutions has been the most fulfilling aspect so far.
Q: What is next on the horizon for you?
A: Next on the horizon for me is preparing to graduate and beginning my career as a product manager. Over the past few years, I鈥檝e led projects that have pushed me to think critically about design, communication and impact. I鈥檝e learned how to navigate ambiguity, focus on my goals, and stay grounded in the needs of the people who will benefit from the information systems I create. When I think about my time at the iSchool, I am reminded of how these experiences have shaped the way I approach problem solving and have prepared me to step into my next chapter with both clarity and confidence.