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Like many young Vermonters, Anja was trying to figure out what came next after high school. What really interested her? In her quest to explore new topics, meet people, and find her path, she took a few detours — including a few "unsuccessful" camp experiences.
Then her mom suggested GIV. Anja applied and spent the summer before her junior year at GIV’s Mathematical Sciences Institute. She loved it so much that she returned year after year — first as a student, then as a Residential Assistant, and now as the Institute’s Community Operations Director!
Anja remembers the mix of excitement and nerves that first summer on UVM’s campus. The anxiety of putting yourself out there and trying something new. GIV gave her a taste of college life while helping her build the skills, confidence, and connections to follow her passion.
After high school, she studied Computer Science at UVM, became the President of the Society of Women in Computer Science, and continues to mentor women in STEM. As an intern for the Vermont Space Grant program at UVM, she had the opportunity to attend several conferences across the U.S. as a panelist and presenter advocating for student research. She credits GIV with shaping her leadership skills and her drive to lift up other young people.
“Everything I'm doing now can be traced back to GIV."
After working as a Software Engineer out of state, Anja returned to Vermont. Today, she is a Senior Admissions Counselor at UVM.
Looking back, Anja is deeply grateful for her time at GIV and the doors it opened. She’s building a career doing what she enjoys in the place she loves—thanks to the spark that started here.
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