I was 18 when I first discovered Kode With Klossy so I only got to participate in the program once. The one year I had the privilege of participating was the year that ended up having the most signifcant impact on my future career. Kode With Klossy opened my eyes to the necessity and responsibilities of women in technology

When I got selected to participate, I was beyond excited to have the opportunity of being a scholar in the 2-week data science program. However, I was a bit discouraged when I was selected as a virtual attendee and was concerned it would interfere with my ability to participate. In the past I have made an effort to avoid virtual meetings and classes. On the first day of camp I was apprehensive about the virtual experience. However, throughout the camp I progressively became more comfortable with the other scholars and instructors, and to my surprise ended up thoroughly enjoying every minute of the 2 weeks. It made me realize I can participate in virtual events given the right environment and supportive community. For the first time in a collaborative atmosphere I felt included, not excluded.

I graduated high school nearly 2 years early and was taking a gap year when I attended camp. Because I took a year and waited to enroll in college, Kode With Klossy gave me the opportunity to explore vast career possibilities. If I had gone to college directly after graduating, I wouldn’t have had the chance to learn about the tech roles that interest me. In the few months since participating in the camp I’ve further explored technology by completing courses offered by Meta and Google for iOS development and UX/UI design. In the past, I always knew I wanted to have a creative career, asI love to design, write music and poetry, and practice ballet, but I never knew how to merge my creativity with technology or STEM. Kode With Klossy I am beyond grateful to have been awarded the opportunity to be a scholar and an alumni of this amazing community.