Octavia Smith is a first-year student in the Master of Information Management and Systems program. Prior to attending the School of Information, she graduated from Kalamazoo College with a B.A. in computer science and was an application development senior analyst at Accenture.
What is your favorite thing about the I School?
I love how approachable and dedicated the professors and administrators are. It feels like they’re not only dedicated to their disciplines, but also to our success as students. I believe that we’re the next generation of tech leaders and designers.
What has been the most surprising thing about your experience here so far?
I’m honestly surprised at how studious everyone is. I never anticipated needing to do laps in the libraries for spots to work.
What is your favorite class?
This question is so hard, so I’ll categorize it by semesters. I really loved Technology and Delegation by Prof. Deirdre Mulligan (recommended to me by a Ph.D. student). It completely rewired my brain on technology’s inherent political influence and design. This Spring semester, I’m really enjoying User Experience Research by Steve Fadden. Not only does he let us apply concepts in real-time with clients and during class, but he brings collaborative and interactive elements to class that are so enjoyable.
Can you share any thoughts on how your identity has shaped your path, contributing to challenges and opportunities, or unique skills, strengths, or perspectives that you bring?
I represent my hometown, Watts/Compton, California, with pride. Despite being a first-generation college student, I never lacked encouragement or support from my community. I developed perseverance, curiosity, and leadership skills participating in several community outreach programs initiated by my African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church and as a Girl Scout. Many of my mentors were Black women dedicated to nourishing the minds and enriching the lives of our underserved neighborhoods through summer camps, mathematics institutes, and camping trips. I try to embody their legacies by focusing on inclusion, equity, and accessibility at MIMS.
What does Black History Month mean to you? Do you recognize or celebrate it? If so, how?
Black History Month feels like a spiritual celebration of the beauty, talent, influence, and determination of Black American culture despite our country’s incessant pursuits of erasing our experiences. There are so many triumphant tales of grit and innovation, yet it is also a time to reflect, possibly grieve, and make space for our ancestors and what they had to endure. I like to write motivational quotes from Black trailblazers of the past and present every day to set the tone. I also love to watch Black films and congregate at local events to celebrate.
What do you aspire to do in the future?
I would like to exist in a space in tech where I can either advocate for consumer rights that are threatened by malicious design, AI compliance/safety or regulation, or advocate for underrepresented identities in any step of the design process.
What advice would you give an incoming or prospective MIMS student?
Embrace all that Berkeley has to offer: take PE classes or student-run DeCals. Explore campus. I love South Hall, but try out all of the other libraries on campus to find your fave study spot! Reach out to the professors, not just in times of crisis, but also for professional guidance or to even geek out about the latest news.
