Stephanie Rose
University of PittsburghStephanie Rose is a fourth-year doctoral student in the School of Computing and Information at the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to her doctoral studies, she served in the New York Air National Guard. This spirit of service has continued throughout her time at the University of Pittsburgh; her efforts have served both her academic community and her local community with an eye on how local concerns may be iterated around the country and may inform the development of impactful global policies. Ms. Rose has helped Pittsburgh underserved youth learn about STEM fields, has served on the University’s Graduate and Professional Student Government to make integral changes to advance the quality of life and community of Pitt’s graduate students, has worked with PittVets to provide support to veterans transitioning from the military to an academic/civilian life, has volunteered with the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh to assist with Thanksgiving distribution efforts, and has most recently served as a guest scholar at the Aspen Institute, which leverages scholars, leaders, and human creativity to tackle some of the world’s most significant problems.
Personal Statement
I want to continue to work in communities to inspire change for the better and contribute towards a better ecosystem wherever my service is needed and can inspire change. In my role in the Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG) at Pitt, I am learning about concerns of grad students outside of my program and have collaborated with Pitt’s administration to make integral changes to advance the quality of life of our grad students. This has led me to become more engaged with the Student Advocates for Graduate Education (SAGE) Coalition, where we discuss critical concerns across R1 institutions and champion for change on Capitol Hill. I have partnered with the School of Computing and Information on local community service engagements to foster interest from underserved youth in STEM fields. Specifically, I have been able to pique the interest of middle and high school students at the Grayson Community Center, engaging them in coding and aid them in their endeavors for their academic careers extending past high school. I have also begun working with our PittVets organization on campus to raise awareness and provide support to veterans transitioning from the military to an academic/civilian life.