Stories of Impact: Taylor Livingston

As an African American woman in STEM, I am grateful to be breaking stereotypes while challenging myself to pursue a field that will advance technology in our world.

When I first arrived at Cal State Fullerton, I attended an event called “Welcome to CSUF Day,” where I learned about a program called Women in Computer Science and Engineering. The adviser told me she wanted to build a community, where women studying computer science and engineering could have meaningful conversations and develop their leadership and technical skills.

At the first WiCSE meeting I attended, I was truly amazed to see so many women working toward technical degrees. I realized that I was not alone, and I now had a support system to lean on.

Through WiCSE, I have been able to create an amazing network of women in STEM. I have become more confident in myself, am mastering my “soft skills” and fighting imposter syndrome. Having a community that I can relate to, and that constantly encourages me to do my best, is truly life-changing.

WiCSE also opened my eyes to understand that computer science is a broad field. Beyond computers and technological systems, I am studying business administration to become a versatile asset in the workplace. I’m still exploring potential careers, but I would like to be able to communicate between the technical and the administrative sides of a business. One thing is clear: Women are needed in STEM because our voices, ideas and solutions are crucial to the growth of the fields in the long run.

Share Taylor's Story

“This investment will help students from disadvantaged backgrounds attain college degrees that lead to high-wage careers in our county’s growing sectors, including engineering and computer science. It’s a true win-win opportunity to create lasting positive results.
— Allan Staff, president, Bank of America Orange County

Students share, in their own words, how they were empowered by their Titan education. Thanks to you, our generous community of donors, these students discovered their passions and leadership potential in academics, arts and athletics.

View More Stories

Being on the Titan Softball team is a great honor for me. I’m the first one in my family to get a scholarship to play a sport at a Division 1 university.
Daisy Muñoz, criminal justice major and Titan Softball infielder

The program cost was a barrier for me. I would not have studied abroad without earning a scholarship and I am most grateful to be a recipient.
Jocelyn Aponte, ’20 (B.A. history), graduate student in history

I want to educate students — that’s where my heart is.
Jonathan Oseguera, ’21 (B.A. psychology), special education credential student

As a full-time graduate student living paycheck to paycheck, my work at the arboretum was generously supported by a donor.
Alexandra Lewandowski, graduate student in environmental studies

I study physics to solve real-world problems.
Daniel Martinez, graduate student in physics

I want to elevate the diverse stories of people.
Jessica Choi, communications-journalism major

I found my voice in photography.
Cassandra Caldwell, art-creative photography and experimental media major

I want to help my patients feel heard.
Evelynn Dronberger, graduate student in nursing-women’s health concentration

I want to be an example for underrepresented students in engineering.
Oscar Sosa Cordova, civil engineering major

Anyone can be a scientist if they are curious.
Melissa Fernandez, biological science major

Health care should be a basic human right.
Samantha Enciso, biological science major

I want to find ethical solutions for complex legal situations.
Jonathan Woodbridge V, business administration-legal studies major