Student: Sofia Azam

• Alondra Martinez

• Arts and Sciences
• Engineering/Technology
• News
• Pirate Profile
• Students

For Sofia Azam, choosing East Carolina University meant finding a place rooted in connection and service. From the beginning, ECU stood out as a campus focused on people and community impact.

"I heard that ECU was very community oriented and focused on helping people in local communities," Azam said. "That was the main thing that drew me to it."

Now a double major in computer science and mathematics, Azam has built an academic path that reflects both her long-standing interest in technology and her desire to use it in meaningful ways. Her passion for computer science began early, sparked by her first exposure to programming in elementary school.

"I was first introduced to programming through a Google program with my technology teacher," she said. "We worked on mini games in Scratch, and I really enjoyed it. I remember wanting to do as many problems as possible."

That early curiosity carried through middle school and high school, where she took every programming and technology class available. Adding mathematics as a second major came naturally as she discovered her interest in data analysis and its role in solving real-world problems.

"I enjoy the data analysis side of computer science. Math and statistics are often needed to support data analysis across different fields, which is why I chose to do both," she said.

Two courses at ECU in particular helped Azam see how her interests intersect. Linear algebra showed her where mathematics and computer science come together, while object oriented programming helped her understand how coding concepts translate into real-life applications.

"It was interesting seeing the intersection between math and computer science," she said. "Our professor talked about how it's used in video games, and in other classes we discussed matrices. It was cool to realize this is where math and computer science meet."

Through object oriented programming, Azam gained a broader perspective on how software is built and used beyond individual problems.

"In other classes it can feel like solving one problem at a time. This class helped me see how programming concepts connect to real-world applications," she said.

Outside the classroom, she has been deeply involved in the Association for Computing Machinery, an organization focused on professional development and career readiness for students in computing and technology fields. The organization hosts workshops on resumes, LinkedIn, interviews and technical tools commonly used in the industry.

"Our goal is to help students prepare for jobs during and after their time at ECU," Azam said. "We bring in guest speakers and host workshops so students can explore different career paths."

Azam's involvement with ACM quickly grew into leadership. She began as an editor during her freshman year, creating monthly newsletters and writing articles about emerging trends in technology. She later served as vice chair before stepping into the role of chair.

"That first board experience meant a lot to me. The people I worked with helped me figure out internships, professional development and opportunities on campus," she said.

That sense of support inspired Azam to become part of the Department of Computer Science Peer Academic and Career Coaching program that provides guidance and support for new computer science and software engineering students by providing them a student coach/mentor.

"When I first came to ECU, I didn't know anyone and wanted to make connections," she said. "ACM helped me meet people and feel supported, and I wanted to provide that same support to other students."

Her academic experiences also extend into research. She previously worked on a machine learning project focused on predicting breast cancer recurrence, an experience that shaped her future goals.

"It introduced me to another side of computer science. Seeing how technology can be used to help people is what inspired me to want to pursue that area in the future," Azam said.

Her interest in healthcare technology is deeply personal. Azam credits her mother as her biggest role model and source of inspiration.

"She went back to school later in life and is now attending the Brody School of Medicine," Azam said. "Watching her persevere and dedicate herself to helping people has been very inspiring."

That example continues to guide her during challenging moments. Her words to live by serve as a reminder to stay grounded and resilient.

"When things get overwhelming, I remind myself that I can do this," she said. "If I had given up on myself during hard times, I wouldn't be where I am today."

Looking ahead, Azam is excited about the future of technology in healthcare, particularly its potential to support preventative care and improve patient outcomes.

"It excites me that technology has the potential to be used for good," she said. "I'm hopeful it will continue to advance medicine and help people in ways that weren't possible before."

As she prepares for life after ECU, Azam plans to carry forward the lessons she has learned through her academic and leadership experiences.

"I've learned to take opportunities when they come and recognize my limits. Perseverance has been the biggest lesson for me," she said.

She encourages students entering computer science, engineering or math to build relationships, seek support and take chances even when they feel uncertain.

"Talk to your professors and apply for opportunities even if you don't feel fully qualified," she said. "Make time to have fun and take care of your mental health."

When she is not studying or working, Azam enjoys journaling, playing games with friends and family, listening to music and watching movies and shows. Her favorite place on campus is Joyner Library, especially the quiet third floor where she finds space to focus and reflect.

Through perseverance, curiosity and a commitment to using technology for good, Azam continues to build a future grounded in purpose and possibility.