Gear Up Pre-Work Responses

gear_up_pre_work.md

Reflect

• What were your reflections from the video? A: It's important to have empathy for not only the people you work with, but the people you aim to serve with your work. Encouraging introspection will help us to become better developers and better human beings.
• In what ways have you examined your implicit biases before coming to Turing? A: I like to spend time reflecting on why I like/dislike certain people. Despite my diverse upbringing (growing up in Brooklyn, NY), there are certain prejudices and even internalized racism that was around and has been taught to me. Although those behaviors and sentiments aren't a major part of my identity, I acknowledge that they still have an impact on the way I see the people around me. I remind myself that it's always important to check myself.
• What kind of software do you imagine building in the future? How will understanding biases (or avoiding understanding biases) impact your products? A: I imagine working on software that empowers patients and users to better interact with the healthcare system. Understanding biases will allow me to better serve those who have been underserved or denied proper care to in the past as a result of discrimination.
• When you consider the way you move through the world, what elements of your identity are you most aware of on a daily basis? A: I'm aware of the fact that I am a cis-gendered Puerto Rican man (who also happens to be a veteran). Although those things may not represent who I am at my core, they are parts of my political identity and afford me some priveleges as well as some disadvantages.
• What strengths does your identity give you? How will you utilize those at Turing? **A: I find solidarity in communities of color. I find solidarity within the veteran community. There's a lot of strength in beloning to communities you've chosen and some that haven chosen you (by way of birth and circumstance). Building community and bridging gaps reduces unconscious bias. I hope to empower and support those communities within Turing and after.
• How do you think you could value the identies of those around you to bring out their strengths at Turing? Has there been a time where you were able to advocate or include people around you? A: By listening to my peers and honoring their identities and experiences. I've been part of the DEI council at several jobs now so advocating for others is something I enjoy and look forward to.
• How will your strengths impact you as a teammate? What will you bring to your cohort? A: My strengths (being supportive, helpful, empathetic, and kind) will hopefully put my teammates/classmates at ease. I've been in similar intensive training programs in the past, and it's easy to fall victim to anxiety and doubt. I hope to encourage my teammates and help them keep their heads up.