Unhealthy Competition : A Barrier in Tech

Highlighting : My Role as an Internship/Placement Representative

In my journey, I've seen a big hurdle blocking fair access to tech opportunities: Unhealthy Competition.

It's sad seeing people keep helpful info to themselves because they're scared of others doing better. As someone new to this field, I've noticed not everyone knows about all the chances out there. Some folks have family ties that make things easier for them. But what's tough is seeing them hold back from helping others.

They're afraid that by helping, they'll lose out themselves. But they're missing the point – helping each other out builds bonds and friendships that last a lifetime.

As a newcomer, I noticed something troubling among my classmates. They're quick to share news of winning scholarships once they've got them, but they stay silent when they're in the process of applying. This selfish thinking only holds everyone back and divides us when we should be lifting each other up.

I stepped up as the Internship Representative to ensure everyone had equal access to opportunities. I created a space where information flowed freely, knowing many missed out due to lack of awareness or missed deadlines.

One moment really sticks with me.

There was a coding contest for women at Atlassian,

but it clashed with our midterm exams. Even though we had over 7 Internship Representatives in our class, nobody stepped up to address the issue.

The guys thought, "Why bother? It's for women." And the girls hesitated, thinking, "Why should I be the only one running around during exams?" This selfish mindset comes from years of unhealthy competition. I decided enough was enough. I went to the college office and got the exam rescheduled so the girls could join the contest. Even though I didn't win, many girls from my class did.

I felt proud knowing I helped make it possible for someone to get their first internship. Some of them even thanked me, and that's one achievement I'll always cherish.

I'm committed to sharing any scholarships or internship openings I come across with my peers.

We hold workshops, where, we educate individuals on how to search for openings and show them how to use LinkedIn to make connections, ensuring they never miss out on any opportunities.

Our selfless efforts have inspired many of my classmates to do the same, and they've created a Telegram group to share internship opportunities they find. It’s like a chain reaction of kindness.

Thinking back, I owe a lot to a senior who guided me through tech stuff when I was lost. He lit a fire in me to help others like he helped me.

Seeing others gain confidence on their own journeys fills me with joy and purpose.

In a world where it's every person for themselves, it's nice knowing that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.

And when someone says my help led to their success, that's the best feeling in the world