Tufts undergraduate reflects on a summer with ACE++

Toki Zhumadil, E28, is studying data science in the School of Engineering. She hails from both Bethesda, Maryland and Almaty, Kazakhstan. When a difficult class caused her to falter, the Access for Computing Equity (ACE++) program helped her regain confidence, both academically and personally. Read on to learn more about Toki’s experience in the Access for Computing Equity (ACE ++) program.

What inspired you to apply for the ACE++ Program?

In the fall of 2024, I took the CS11: Introduction to Computer Science course and really enjoyed the work. I came into the subsequent CS15 Data Structures class with a certain level of confidence. However, I underestimated the learning curve and how chaotic my spring semester would be. I struggled with the homework and I ended up with a D- in the class. I was devastated. Not only did I feel behind in class, I began to think that computer and data science might not be right for me. 

I scheduled a meeting with the CS Senior Academic Advisor, Megan Monaghan, to talk about possible solutions. She told me about the Access to Computing Equity (ACE++) summer program, and I decided to apply.

What was the schedule like during the summer?  

During the twelve weeks of the ACE++ program, thirteen other rising sophomores and I were provided with housing, dining, summer class tuition, and a stipend so we could focus on our studies.

A typical week looked like:

• Monday + Wednesday: In person CS15 lectures
• Tuesday: CS15 lab, Industry speaker workshop, CS61 lecture
• Thursday: Homework Launch and Personal Project worktime
• Friday: Life Lessons, Social Activity with Peer Mentor
• Sunday: Homework due

What were the classes like?

Our CS15: Data Structures class was taught by David Zabner, who is working on his Ph.D. in STEM Education. Instead of a midterm and final exam, we reimagined and revised a personal project and completed an in-class assignment based on the platform LeetCode’s exercises. These assignments tested our ability to conceptually understand code that we’d never seen before and make sense of it—which is what professional software developers do. Additionally, we had mock technical interviews for every homework where we explained our algorithm designs and answered questions about the data structures.

I began to internalize the learning and think about computer science in new ways. I realized memorizing the work didn’t make sense at all if I didn’t understand the basic concepts. I began to think more deeply about the problems that had challenged me in the spring. Suddenly, having textbook knowledge didn’t seem to matter when I was faced with an unfamiliar algorithm that I had to dissect while explaining my thought process. I began to look forward to this type of dynamic learning, and I found myself submitting my homework a few days before the deadline. This was a new feeling for me and very exhilarating. I couldn’t believe the drastic turnaround in my confidence.

Beyond academics, what other experiences did you have in the ACE++ program?

Every Tuesday, an industry speaker would come in to talk to us about the field and the lessons they wished that they’d known earlier. One of my favorite workshops was about creating a structured system for managing the work/life balance and having consistent check-ins with yourself. We would also have “Life Lessons” on Fridays where Kasandra Yee, program administrator in the Center for STEM Diversity, would lead us through professional development topics such as writing effective resumes, interview tips, and building our personal website. We were encouraged to have coffee and chat with computer science faculty, who offered to spend their time sharing their research and giving advice. Thanks to ACE++’s program directors, Mafalda Gueta and Kasandra Yee, I walked away from the summer with a clear idea of how to establish communication and introduce myself—and, most importantly, the confidence to ask for opportunities and seek advancement.

How has the ACE++ program impacted you?

I doubt that I would have transformed into the assertive and confident student I am today, and I  doubt that I would have remained a data science major without ACE++. I am grateful that this program exists because it gave me so much more than just a second chance in a class. I had the opportunity to develop a genuine network of friends who I learned and grew with for the whole summer. I continue to stay close with my cohort, and continue to grow as a student and professional thanks to the improved mindset I found through ACE++. I believe that I’ve emerged as someone who can effectively advocate for myself in any situation.

Anything else you’d like to share?

ACE++ solidified Tufts as my home. Being here over the summer gave me the time and opportunity to enjoy the small things that I was too busy to allow myself during the school year, like simply hanging out on Prez Lawn. Through ACE++ we also enjoyed art, ice cream, movie and game nights, and even a visit to Six Flags. During my first summer away from home, I felt surrounded by care and love—two characteristics that continue to define Tufts for me today.