Take a break, We're on Smoko! Introducing: Sanskriti Deva, a Quantum Engineer and  Design Research Intern at IBM.

Sanskriti is a senior computer and electrical engineering student at North Carolina State University, where she serves as President of the Quantum Information Club and Women in Electrical and Computer Engineering Club, Vice President of Company Relations for the Society of Women Engineers, and a quantum computing researcher and teaching assistant.  At 17 years old, she was elected as a United Nations Council Member, making her the youngest and first South Asian person to do so.

In this episode Sanskriti Deva, speaks on quantum computing and her work as an advocate for women in STEM. Sanskriti shares her inspiring journey, from discovering quantum computing to becoming the youngest elected representative at the United Nations. Sanskriti emphasizes the importance of making quantum computing accessible to a wider audience and discusses the various career opportunities available within the field, including technical roles focused on developing quantum technology and business roles supporting the industry.

She highlights the significance of making quantum computing more approachable, particularly for high school students, and shares her joy in teaching thousands of students about quantum computing. The conversation then shifts to Sanskriti's involvement with the United Nations, where she serves as an elected representative. She explains how her journey began through a campus chapter and highlights the importance of young people taking up space and being actively involved in decision-making processes. Sanskriti sheds light on the UN's focus on thinking globally and acting locally, urging individuals to become change-makers in their own communities and work towards achieving the United Nations' sustainable development goals.

Throughout the episode, Sanskriti candidly addresses the issue of imposter syndrome, a phenomenon that many women in STEM fields experience. She shares her personal struggles with self-doubt and discusses the strategies she employs to overcome it.