Grad Cohort for Women – Participant Spotlight: Suzzana Rafi, George Mason University

By Lauren Lashlee, Senior Program Associate CRA-WP

The CRA-WP Grad Cohort for Women Workshop is a transformative event designed to support and mentor women and gender-marginalized students pursuing graduate studies in computing. Through workshops, networking sessions, and mentorship opportunities, participants gain valuable skills and insights to navigate their academic and professional journeys.

Suzzana Rafi, a 4th-year PhD student in the Department of Computer Science at George Mason University, embodies the workshop’s impact. Suzzana’s research focuses on software testing, particularly improving testing techniques using AI, and she has already made strides in the field by addressing issues like flaky tests. Dr. Wing Lam, her advisor, noted, “Since attending the workshop, Suzzana has gained confidence and has become more engaged, contributing more during seminars and discussions.”

Applications for the 2025 workshop are now open, with a deadline to apply by November 15. Click here to apply.

Below, Suzzana shares her experiences and insights from attending the Grad Cohort for Women Workshop.

Q&A with Suzzana Rafi

What motivated you to attend the CRA-WP Grad Cohort for Women Workshop, and how did you hear about it?
I was motivated to attend because I wanted to connect and share experiences with other women in computing and get insights on navigating grad school. I first heard about it from my advisor. The first time I attended, I was in my second year of grad school and looking for my place in the research field, and it seemed like a great opportunity to get some motivation.

How did the interactions with senior women in computing influence your perspective on navigating graduate school or research?
Talking to senior women was incredibly encouraging. They shared practical advice and real-world experiences that helped me understand how to balance research, life, and career development. It helped me see both the academia and industry side of computing jobs.

Were there any particular sessions or speakers that resonated with you?
Yes, sessions like “Storytelling for Powerful Communication” and “Building Your Professional Persona” stood out. The speakers shared relatable struggles and successes, offering practical advice that helped me feel more confident in presenting myself professionally.

How have the mentorship and networking opportunities influenced your academic journey since attending?
The mentorship and peer connections are a great support system. I’ve stayed in touch with several peers, and we share research, career, and personal updates. These connections have been motivating and have provided new perspectives.

Did attending the workshop increase your confidence in your ability to succeed in graduate school or computing?
Definitely. Hearing others share their struggles and successes made me feel like I’m not alone, and it provided strategies to overcome challenges in grad school and computing.

How has the workshop helped you improve your research output or approach to publishing papers?
The workshop provided practical tips on publishing papers, from choosing the right venue to structuring drafts and navigating the submission process, making the journey of getting published feel more manageable.

Looking to the future, how do you plan to apply what you learned at the workshop to your career in computing?
I plan to use the networking and communication skills I learned to actively seek collaborations and mentorship opportunities, which will be valuable as I refine my career path.

What advice would you give to a student considering attending the Grad Cohort for Women Workshop?
Go for it! It’s a unique experience—an opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired. Engaging with both peers and mentors can provide some of the most useful feedback and support.

Apply Now for the 2025 Grad Cohort for Women Workshop

The workshop is not only an opportunity for professional growth but also a supportive community that empowers women to thrive in computing. If Suzzana’s experience resonates with you, we encourage you to apply for the 2025 CRA-WP Grad Cohort for Women Workshop!

The 2025 Grad Cohort Workshop will be held at the Hilton Denver City Center in Denver, Colorado, from April 3-5, 2025. Click here to apply.

Applications are open now and must be submitted by November 15. For more information and FAQs, visit CRA-WP Grad Cohort for Women.