Joseph’s Story

College: Amherst College | Major: Computer Science | Career Pathway: STEM

Campus Engagement

At Amherst College, Joseph distinguished himself as both a mentor and a leader. He served as a Peer Tutoring Fellow and Teaching Assistant in the Computer Science Department, where he helped classmates strengthen their understanding of complex concepts and debug weekly lab assignments. He also contributed as a Research Assistant in the Astronomy Department, where he developed a user interface using Bootstrap and Flask that allowed astronomers to make faster, more cost-effective decisions. Joseph presented this innovative work at the American Astronomy Society, highlighting his ability to bridge technical expertise with real-world impact.

Internship Connection

Through The Upward Project’s corporate partnerships, Joseph secured a summer internship at Maark, a leading digital marketing agency. This opportunity not only gave him hands-on industry experience but also laid the foundation for his career in technology.

Career Advancement

Joseph’s persistence and preparation paid off! After two summers interning at Maark, he was offered a full-time role as a Junior Software Engineer. Within just one year, he was promoted to Software Engineer, an achievement that reflects both his talent and his ability to maximize opportunities.

Academic Achievement

After two years at Maark, Joseph completed his Master’s degree in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence at Dartmouth College. With his advanced degree, he is now exploring Ph.D. programs and preparing to re-enter the job market at the highest levels of his field.

Financial Empowerment

Beyond academics and career growth, Joseph took advantage of The Upward Project’s financial advising services, where he learned about stocks, high-yield savings accounts, and retirement planning. These sessions equipped him with the tools to make smart, long-term financial decisions.