Three questions to Leah

Before we dive in Leah, tell us a little bit about yourself!

I’m a computer science student with a love for building things that actually work: efficient web applications, clean databases, and technology that makes life a little easier for people. I’m endlessly curious, which means I’m usually learning a new tool, pulling apart a tricky problem, or experimenting with whatever framework has just caught my eye.

I’m originally from the Midwest in the US. I love the flexibility of my work, even though I’m a night owl who secretly wishes she was an early bird. I fill my cup by spending time with friends, good conversations, and anything that sparks creativity.

What is something you’ve changed your mind about recently? 

One thing I've changed my mind about recently is the power we have over our own lives. I think it's easy to feel trapped in the modern world, with the cost of living going up mostly everywhere and just the general expectations placed on young people. But recently I've witnessed friends traveling, friends getting really cool summer jobs, and I myself am about to go costume at a theatre for a month, which I thought was a dream totally out of my reach. It just goes to show that if you are willing enough to put yourself out there, the world truly is your oyster.

Who is someone you admire and why? 

One person I admire is my best friend Alexa. She was actually the one who helped me reach the clarity on point number 1. She and I met in university until she was drawn onto a different path, and I've watched her travel and work hard and persevere through a great uncertain time in her life and now she's on track to get a degree and pursue her dream job. I think I really value the strength she had through the uncertain times, and seeing her find her own way to happiness. 

If you could change one policy or norm in society, what would it be and why?    

If I could change one norm in society, I would change (particularly American) wastefulness. This ranges from food waste all the way to the water wasted with AI data centers to the space wasted by empty, perfectly kept lawns. The amount of resources that we don't utilize properly is a shame and is extremely harmful to the environment, and if we could just be more sustainable about it all as a whole we would be able to create so much change in the world. Clothing waste is especially horrible as someone who sews, and could be so easily avoided. 

What's something exciting you're working on?

As I mentioned a little bit, one project I am working on is the costuming for a production of Young Frankenstein. This is my first professional theatre job and I am so excited!!