Marian Elaine De Chavez

Marian is currently taking her bachelor's degree in Computer Science at Batangas State University, with research interests in Applied Sciences – Artificial Intelligence, IoT (Internet of Things), and Game Development. Applied Science is the materialization of Science, wherein even the general population can benefit from outputs and products of science with applications to daily living.

She is currently working in the development of android apps for Filipinos with hearing impairment and for a contactless payment system, both of which are internet-based and can be used for everyday functioning.

Her mentoring experience dwells with being part of teams and providing pieces of advice, especially to those not so familiar with the field of technology and innovation. With this, and her innate desire to pass her knowledge to other people, she joined SIDHI as one of the mentors. It's her avenue to spread awareness and give inspiration to people to discover and explore their potential.

As a mentor, she will encourage her mentees' independence and enforce their interests and skills. She'll also keep an open mind and accept ideas and questions, no matter how unconventional it can be.

Marian says, "Mistakes are part of the process in research. Mistakes are a part of discovery. Fun fact: Some of the best discoveries in science even started with what scientists thought to be 'mistakes'! Just look at how Penicillin, Nylon, Anesthesia, ink-jet printers, X-Rays, and plastics were discovered! Science is a continuous process. So don't be afraid to try new things or experiments that you might think are absurd. Nothing's even weirder than that!"

If there's one piece of advice she can give to aspiring young Filipino scientists that is to stay curious.