Hi everyone it’s Jocelyn Vazquez, a senior Information Systems student at the University of Texas at Arlington and a proud first-generation Latina in tech. I actually started out in cosmetology, got my license in high school, and worked in salons doing hair and nails. I'm now an incoming Data Engineering Intern at Fidelity Investments and previously worked as a Business Analyst at HP Tech Venture Capital.

I would say that the internship really strengthened my ability to turn messy data into clear actionable insights, which is something that I’ve carried into every single role since then, especially as a web developer. One skill that I would definitely highlight would be data storytelling, to be able to communicate things especially findings in a way that is simple, visual, and impactful. Because not everything is about the charts or graphs, it’s about making people care about the numbers.

Don’t only focus on learning tools, focus on learning how to think with data. Know how to ask the right questions, thought patterns, and way to tell a story that makes other people care. Tools change but critical thinking always stays with you. I also recommend joining organizations like ALPFA and ColorStack. They’ve opened so many doors for me, from mentorship to internships, and communities like these remind you that you’re not alone in this journey. As One Piece taught me, it’s not just about the destination. It’s about the adventures, the growth, and the crew you build along the way.

In a significant antitrust trial, Sheryl Sandberg, Meta's former COO, defended the company against allegations of stifling competition by acquiring startups like Instagram and WhatsApp. During her testimony, she referred to challenging times when Meta, then known as Facebook, faced potential threats from competitors like Google+.

Mark Zuckerberg also testified, arguing that Meta's acquisitions were standard business practices and vital for growth, citing intense competition from platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The FTC is challenging these acquisitions, suggesting they were preemptive moves to neutralize competition, potentially leading to a call for the company's breakup. Read more HERE from the New York Times.

AMD anticipates incurring up to $800 million in charges due to new U.S. export restrictions affecting its MI308 products destined for China and other countries. The semiconductor giant, which achieved record revenues of $25.8 billion in 2024, might see slowed growth due to these restrictions. AMD's stock fell over 7% following the announcement, mirroring a similar financial impact disclosed by competitor Nvidia, which expects a $5.5 billion charge related to its exports. The new regulations could significantly impact AMD's operations and financial health. Read more HERE from CNBC.

ALPFA, the premier network established in 1972, dedicated to fostering leadership, career growth, and opportunities for professionals and students in the Latino community. ALPFA stands as a beacon of support for over 100,000 members, offering a robust platform for professional development, mentorship, and networking. Members benefit from tailored resources that enhance both their educational and career trajectories through student and professional memberships, which provide access to exclusive opportunities and a comprehensive job board.

With 40+ professional chapters and 200+ student chapters, ALPFA maintains a significant presence across various sectors of the economy, continually expanding its reach and impact. Our interview feature today Jocelyn recommended this resource for all early career students to consider joining!

Check it out HERE: https://www.alpfa.org/