Attending the Grace Hopper Celebration was a truly magical experience, one that reinforced the feeling of community and solidarity among women in technology. Hearing America Ferrera speak was a powerful reminder of the gratitude we owe to the women who came before us—those who have navigated challenging, uncomfortable spaces so that we might have greater opportunities today. Her words inspired me to take up this mantle and do my part in paving a better path for the next generation.
Throughout GHC, from the opening and closing ceremonies to the conversations with fellow attendees in hotel lobbies after a long day, I was constantly reminded of the strength and support of this community. I’ve returned from the conference with a new group of friends who are genuinely cheering for my success, and I’m deeply grateful for the chance to connect with so many incredible women.
Each conversation offered fresh perspectives and insights. I learned to view AI not as a standalone solution, but as a tool to help solve the real-world problems I’m most passionate about. Others encouraged me to bring my most authentic, confident self into every interview and career decision. GHC provided a unique environment that fostered these thought-provoking exchanges, which I continue to reflect on.
From inspiring talks on successful women launching health-tech startups to workshops on negotiating, GHC has equipped me with skills and knowledge that will stay with me throughout my career. I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience and the incredible community I now feel a part of.
- Melanie Foltak, 3B Software Engineering