I liked both STEM and the humanities, but the clarity and structure of science, the ingenuity of engineering, and the novelty of the field at the time drew me to computer science.
Your organization field and mission:
The University of Ioannina is a public university whose mission is to create and transfer knowledge, promote excellence in education and research, and foster diversity and inclusion.
Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:
I am a Professor at the Computer Science and Engineering Department and my work involves teaching, advising students, and research.
Your interest in STEM
I have never really believed in role models, as I think people should follow their own path in life. Still, seeing other women in the field matters, because it shows that choosing STEM is a real option.
Your studies
I think I faced the usual challenges and obstacles of any competitive environment. A more gender-specific challenge was that, as I was often in the minority, it was sometimes harder to connect socially.
My belief is that the most important thing is for people, regardless of gender, to choose a field of study that truly makes them happy. Then, they should study hard, build confidence, not be afraid to ask for advice, and learn to filter out comments that diminish them.
You at work
My organization is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability through its broader mission of promoting equal opportunities, respect for diversity, and responsible education and research.
I would not frame it as a single achievement, but I am proud of my students and of continuing to pursue research questions that I find meaningful.
Your point of view
Technology can empower women by removing practical barriers and by making knowledge, opportunities, and participation more accessible. But it is important for women to not only use technology, but also shape it.
Computer science is a rapidly evolving field, so it is important to keep studying and learning, follow new developments, and be ready to adapt.
I hope that by 2030 DEIS will no longer need to be singled out, because these principles will be naturally embedded in the field.
To finish with
I value integrity, curiosity, seriousness in work, respect for others, and independence of thought.
I believe AI is reshaping much of our field, as well as society more broadly, and adapting to this change, in both research and education, will be one of the main professional challenges ahead.
By 2030, I hope to continue contributing through research and teaching.
The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : https://codeweek.eu/