Mariana Phelan
Mariana Phelan is a dedicated and driven senior at Florida International University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. With a deep fascination for technology and its integration into everyday life, she is passionate about understanding how systems operate—from the programming of websites to the development of innovative applications that simplify daily tasks. Her academic achievements, including making the Dean’s List and active involvement in organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers and Women in Cybersecurity, reflect her commitment to excellence and inclusion within the tech community.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Mariana currently works as a Specialist at Apple, where she applies her technical expertise and customer service experience to enhance the user experience across Apple’s ecosystem. Her role involves troubleshooting, optimizing workflows, and supporting cross-platform solutions, giving her valuable exposure to real-world applications of technology. Prior to this, she served as the Director of Marketing and Logistics and Technical Lead at CODE CRUNCH GLOBAL, where she led initiatives to expand engagement, mentor peers in Python programming, and foster a collaborative learning environment.
Mariana’s professional journey is also marked by her hands-on experience in retail, including her time at Nike, where she developed strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Balancing work and academics has strengthened her resilience, time management, and problem-solving abilities. Looking ahead, Mariana aspires to innovate within the tech industry—merging her technical knowledge and customer experience to design products that enhance connectivity and improve the way people interact with technology.
• Software Development Internship Ready
• Java Object-Oriented Programming
• Data Structures and Algorithms Certification
• Foundations of Orientation Leadership
• Miami Dade College - AA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, determination, and perseverance. Balancing my studies in computer science, with my expected graduation in Spring 2026, while working in retail has taught me resilience and time management. Every step I take is driven by my desire to make a meaningful difference in my community and to build a future where my skills can create positive change.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple yet powerful: “You can, and you will—just never give up.” It reminds me that perseverance and belief in myself are the keys to overcoming challenges and achieving my goals, no matter how difficult the path may seem.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is this: You can achieve greatness. Believe in your abilities, stay curious, and never let self-doubt hold you back. With hard work, confidence, and persistence, you can break barriers and create meaningful impact in any space you choose to pursue.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is balancing academic commitments with work responsibilities. Pursuing a degree in computer science while working requires strong time management, focus, and discipline. However, this challenge also presents a great opportunity—to build real-world experience, strengthen resilience, and apply what I’m learning in practical settings as I work toward graduating in 2026.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are education and enjoying life. I believe that continuous learning opens doors to new opportunities and personal growth, while maintaining a sense of joy and balance allows me to appreciate the journey along the way. Together, these values keep me motivated, grounded, and inspired to pursue my goals with purpose.