Arely Martinez Garcia

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT ARELY MARTINEZ GARCIA

As a senior at Lehman College pursuing a Bachelor\'s degree in Computer Science with a concentration in web development, I’m passionate about using technology to drive meaningful change, particularly in underrepresented communities. My interest in software engineering began in high school through Girls Who Code’s Summer Immersion Program, where I saw how technology could be used to address real social issues. That experience shifted my perspective from simply using technology to wanting to build it. Since then, I’ve been driven by the idea that well-designed software can empower communities and make complex systems more accessible.Throughout college, I\'ve strengthened my technical foundation through hands-on projects and internships. At the ACLU, I\'m working on the national and affiliate websites to support civic engagement and access to information. At Liberty Mutual, I worked on a chatbot using React that improved how teams access documentation, strengthening my experience in React and collaborative engineering practices. During my time at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, I built a text opt-in form using React and Django to streamline communication and improve operational efficiency. Earlier at BlackFacts.com, I contributed to research-driven initiatives supporting nationwide advocacy efforts. Together, these experiences shaped my ability to balance technical rigor with meaningful impact.Beyond the classroom, I’ve been involved in community work. I currently volunteer for the Letter of Pre-Scientists and I write letters to a pen-pal to help them explore career paths in STEM. Last semester, I volunteered at Van Cortlandt Park to help maintain and protect historic burial grounds. In the past, I volunteered at Lehman’s food pantry, where I saw firsthand the impacts of food insecurity. These experiences have strengthened my sense of responsibility and empathy, qualities I bring to every team and project I take on.I bring expertise in React.js, Next.js, Node.js, and PostgreSQL, enabling me to build responsive, user-centered web applications. I’m excited to continue growing as a software engineer, taking on new challenges, and contributing to projects that use technology to drive social change.