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Computer Science graduate Christine Chen named valedictorian

Engineering

May 9, 2017

When Christine Chen ’17 arrived at the University of Portland, she had no experience in programming or calculus. Four years later, Chen has graduated from the Shiley School of Engineering as valedictorian with a degree in computer science.

“UP and the Shiley School have given me a solid foundation and a deep love of learning and excitement in exploring and tackling new subjects,” Chen said. “My professors’ passion and kindness have really impacted and motivated me.”

Chen, who lived all four years on campus in Mehling Hall, looks back at her time on campus fondly. From participating in Campus Ministry events to the computer science club to Society of Women Engineers, Chen was very active in campus life. Her favorite memories of UP involve the long hours and late nights with her senior design team, Holla-At-Yo-Gram, especially the many hours spent debugging their program, doing last-minute fixes, and practicing their presentation for Founders’ Day.

“The days leading up to Founders’ Day were crazy for all the senior design teams, but there was also an awesome sense of camaraderie,” Chen said. “All the teams ended up in Shiley Hall the night before Founder’s Day and we were all really encouraging and supportive of one another.”

This summer, Chen is headed to Washington, D.C., to volunteer with the International Justice Mission in their cybersecurity department. In the fall, Chen will begin graduate school at University of Washington where she hopes to explore “the intersection of technology and humanitarian work.”