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Lawrence woman wins a tech scholarship at Stern

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Stern College for Women junior Sarah Gulkowitz of Lawrence has been awarded the Women in Technology Scholarship by Visionary Integration Professionals. 

“The sponsor of this scholarship was searching for women who show promise not only in technology, but who also have a commitment to community service,” said Alan Broder, clinical professor and chair of the computer science department at Stern College. “In both respects, Sarah Gulkowitz is very worthy of this recognition, and we are quite proud of her achievement.”

The scholarship was established in 2007 to inspire and unlock the potential of young women pursuing careers in computer science, information technology and other related fields. Out of more than 250 applicants, Gulkowitz was one of just 12 winners selected. Applications were evaluated based on academic performance, community service and extracurricular activity involvement, as well as an essay that each student submitted.

“I was always interested in computers and the challenge that came with them,” said Gulkowitz. While computer science has been one of her passions, she hadn’t decided to major in it until she attended Stern: “Taking a course with Professor Broder solidified my decision,” she said. “In computer science, every project and problem brings something new and challenging to the table which allows me to utilize my analytical and problem solving skills.”

Broder suggested Gulkowitz apply for the scholarship because of her enthusiasm and accomplishments in the classroom. “In addition, Sarah is strongly committed to ‘giving back’ by the giving of her time as a teaching intern and advocate for computer science education at a Long Island high school,” Broder said. 

Gulkowitz hopes to pursue a career in computer science in the finance industry.