Lauren Leyendecker

Year in college: Junior

Hometown: Spring Branch, TX

Favorite C S experience so far and why: My favorite experience in UTCS so far has been being able to work as a programming assistant (PA) for the UTCS Summer Academies for Women. When I had transferred into the Department of Computer Science I didn’t have any friends in CS and I found it intimidating talking to people in my classes. However, when I was working at these summer academies, the other PAs and I became very close over the two weeks we were together and became inseparable. All of the PAs were so nice and welcoming and it was amazing getting to know them and build friendships with each of them.

What advice (if any) would you go back and give yourself coming into UTCS? If I could go back and give advice to myself coming into UTCS I would tell myself to not be afraid to put myself out there and attend career fairs, network, and apply to internships even if I’m not completely sure I’ll get the job. If you never apply or try to do something you’re interested in then it is guaranteed that you will not get it. However, if you apply then at least you can say you tried your best and you might even get what you wanted, and even if you don’t then you can still gain application and/or interview experience.

Best place to eat in Austin? Madam Mam’s, specifically the one on W Anderson Ln. They have an extensive menu and everything on it tastes amazing!