Her Story
About Mahlet
Mahlet Abebe is an incoming junior at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign pursuing a degree in information science with a concentration in data analytics and a minor in business. She entered the information technology services field almost a year ago after shifting from journalism and political science following an introductory data science class. Her professional experience includes serving as a marketing and communications intern for the informatics department in the School of Information Sciences and as a tech and business development intern at the nonprofit Tech Me Kid, where she assisted senior citizens from underserved communities with technology. She is a member of Management Leadership for Tomorrow and is currently engaged in a research internship focused on urban infrastructure in South Africa, combining STEM and humanities perspectives. Abebe is also involved in the data science club and product space at her university, with interests extending to UX design, consulting, and data engineering.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Mahlet
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Trust the process. Don't compare yourself to other people and don't fall for imposter syndrome. College is a fresh start and jobs look at your college work not high school stats.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be intimidated by challenges or people you'll meet. They're just like you navigating the same environment. It's okay to not know anything because asking questions shows passion and ambition.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Adapting and balancing classes with corporate events, networking, and social life. Learned to prioritize and seek help like accommodations for anxiety.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Originality and being authentic. Family support is key especially during stressful application periods.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.