In reading about Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer, I was inspired by her self-awareness toward her mathematical and logical abilities. Nowadays, I get the impression that having imposter syndrome is considered a natural and persistent part of being a woman in the engineering and technology world. While it is possible to struggle with self-doubt in spite of being intellectually aware of one’s own strengths and prowess, Lovelace’s logical mindset seems to have helped her avoid falling prey to such self-sabotaging thought patterns. An example of her asserted confidence is in her letter to Charles Babbage, who is commonly referred to as “Father of the Computer”. In this letter, she stated: “Do not reckon me conceited, … but I believe I have the power of going just as far as I like in such pursuits, and where there is so decided a taste, I should almost say a passion, as I have for them, I question if there is not always some portion of natural genius even.” Her confidence was apt, and her pitch worked on Babbage, who took on Lovelace as a mentee. What a phenomenal example of self-advocacy, especially coming from a young girl living in the 1800’s, and addressed to such a towering figure in computing.
I liked this article. You did a great job of pointing out Lovelace’s example and passion for computer programming. She was not afraid to show her true colors and even addressing someone so highly thought of. I agree with her idea that you can go as far as you can see yourself going, as long as you have passion for it you can do pretty much anything.