Garrett Berliner - Grads Here

gerrett berliner photo

An essential aspect to fostering the student experience is finding a sense of belonging. Garrett Berliner (they/he) is a second-year graduate student studying computer science with a minor in mathematics at Oregon State University. “I grew up moving all around the United States…I’ve always been interested in technology since that was the only way I could stay connected with old friends once I moved to a new place, so that it was initially drew me to computer science.”

Their desire to find other queer students in STEM disciplines is what got them interested in oSTEM, or Out in STEM, the club for queer & trans students in STEM. For Garrett, oSTEM has been where they’ve found community and a sense of belonging. 

“The club hosts general meetings every other week during the academic year, and, throughout my time at OSU, this has been a space where I’ve really fostered community.”  The club’s yearly activities include regular meetings and painting “THE CLOSET” for National Coming Out Day. Last year, Garrett assisted the club in attending its first national conference.  

“[The conference was] last year in Anaheim, Calif., which was definitely a highlight of my OSU journey and has been an extremely rewarding aspect of my time here.” What has always been interesting to Garrett is the learning experience of others. 

“I’m pursuing computer science education research since I want to find new and more engaging ways to teach and introduce computer science to individuals from underrepresented groups — especially because the field is very homogeneous, and I want to find ways to break that mold and empower individuals to pursue what they love and their passion. I also love teaching and want to always research and learn about the best ways to teach computer science.”