Mariana
Rodriguez
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Major: Computer Science
Research Interest: Cybersecurity
“CSS has given me a more precise idea of what I will do with my computer science degree after I graduate.
WHAT attracted you to the CSS program and to Carolina?
The welcoming community and inspiring program of research is what truly attracted me to CSS and Carolina.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE CSS EXPERIENCE SO FAR?
My favorite CSS experience so far was the Welcome Back Reception hosted this August. I loved seeing my whole cohort reunited and was excited to see the new members of CSS.
HOW HAS your experience with CSS SHAPED YOUR GOALS and career path?
It has shown me what a future in research looks like and has shown me new possibilities in where I can go with my computer science degree.
WHAT research topic are you interested in exploring and why?
I am interested in cybersecurity because it is a growing and complex issue that affects everyone. I have just joined a research lab that focuses on how to validate the security in computer hardware. Right now, I am reading several scientific journals to try to familiarize myself with the topic.