What first inspired you to join TECH CORPS?

At age 9, I joined Techie Camp in 2013, where we learned Scratch. I built a nail painting game and felt the thrill of making something come alive on screen. That week opened the door to computer science for me and showed me how much I love creating with code.

How did TECH CORPS guide your learning and service?

The program turned curiosity into action. For my Girl Scout Gold Award, I created Scratch tutorials and, during COVID, shared them with classrooms and teachers nationwide. Turning skills into lessons showed how teaching widens access and taught patience, clarity, and joy in giving back.

Which project or event shaped your path most?

In high school, I joined a TECH CORPS hack weekend. My team built an app that taught users about bullying after researching community issues like recycling and the opioid crisis. We earned second place, and I saw how code can advance social awareness.

How has TECH CORPS influenced your confidence and next steps?

I recently graduated from Ohio Wesleyan with a computer science degree, and I am building my portfolio while searching for my first role. TECH CORPS normalized productive struggle and learning from mistakes. Even when I was the only girl in class, I knew I belonged. I saw Black and brown girls in tech.

What skills and community did you gain that you carry forward?

As an instructor, I learned to read engagement, start with what students know, and build from there. Beginning with positives created momentum I’ll carry into collaborating at work. Through TECH CORPS, I met a community that kept my confidence strong.