A software developer at GM, Fantaysia Polanco is helping hundreds of children learn about engineering and computer science.
In the Master of Science in Internet of Things program, students learn how a network of devices works to perform complex cohesive actions. For Fantaysia Polanco BS ’21, MS ’22, the program’s first female graduate, her new College of Engineering and Computing degree is helping her connect everything in her life and elevate the people around her.
Equipped with advanced technical skills and the heart of a teacher, Polanco is helping hundreds of children learn about engineering and computer science. She is also excelling in the professional realm. A few days after graduating, Polanco is working at General Motors as a software developer, helping the eCommerce sector expand its functionality.
“In many ways, I don’t think I look like the typical engineer. I like pretty long nails, cute earrings and the colors pink and purple,” says Polanco, who comes from Haitian, Dominican and Bahamian lineage. “I think I’m showing people, especially in my community, that there are different types of engineers out there and that Black and Brown girls like myself can be engineers and scientists too.”
Read more at FIU News.