When I was in high school, I found myself standing at the crossroads of two passions: a fascination with technology and an enduring love for finance and business. On one hand, I was that student who enjoyed breaking down problems, tinkering with systems, and finding patterns in data. On the other, I was also the student who proudly received awards as the “Best Business Student” and relished analyzing markets, leadership case studies, and entrepreneurial ventures. At first, it seemed as if I would have to choose between these two paths. But when I discovered Drexel’s Software Engineering program and the possibility of pairing it with a FinTech minor, I realized I could merge both passions into a single journey.
Software engineering excites me because it is the art of turning logic into reality. Whether it’s designing a full-stack application or writing algorithms to solve real-world problems, coding allows me to create tools that make life easier. But my choice of engineering was not just about enjoying technology. It was about impact. I knew that by mastering the skills to build and design systems, I could extend my influence beyond the screen—helping organizations run better, helping individuals access resources, and solving the kinds of problems that shape people’s everyday experiences.
The FinTech minor added another layer of meaning to this choice. Finance is the backbone of how the world operates, and technology has become its new lifeline. From mobile banking apps to trading algorithms, the financial industry is in the midst of a transformation driven by innovation. I wanted to be part of that change— not only as an engineer building the tools but also as someone who understands the financial principles that guide them. FinTech was the bridge between my aptitude for problem-solving and my passion for business. It gave me the chance to align my technical skills with my entrepreneurial mindset.
Another reason I chose this path was resilience. I believe in future-proofing myself by learning disciplines that constantly evolve. Software engineering and finance are not stagnant; they both demand adaptability, curiosity, and continuous learning. This combination means that my career can grow in multiple directions— whether that’s building consumer apps, contributing to corporate finance solutions, or even creating my own venture at the intersection of technology and money.
High school experiences like serving as Valedictorian and leading Round Square reinforced this decision. They taught me discipline, leadership, and the importance of solving problems for the greater good. When I coded my first web app prototype, I realized how much joy I found in creating. When I stood on stage speaking about business and global issues, I realized how much I cared about strategy and economics. Together, these shaped my belief that I don’t need to abandon one passion to follow the other; instead, I can forge a path where both thrive.
Ultimately, my decision to pursue Software Engineering with a FinTech minor is about building bridges— between disciplines, between technology and finance, and between myself and the impact I want to make in the world. It is not just about writing code or analyzing markets; it is about designing solutions that empower people. I am determined to spend my undergraduate years preparing myself not only to excel as an engineer but to stand at the cutting edge of financial technology, where innovation is redefining how society operates.