Girls Who Code Returns to In-Person Programming
The UA Girls Who Code (GWC) club provides free opportunities for students in grades 6-12th grade to learn the basics of Python and about the world of computer science. The University of Arizona club was founded by WISE in partnership with the UAZ Libraries in 2016. This year, we were excited to return to in-person programming after conducting virtual programming all last year. This year's club meetings take place in Catalyst Studios, located in the main library. This has given students the opportunity to be exposed to new technology and skills such as 3D printing and Virtual Reality.
Over the last two years, facilitators for the UA Girls Who Code club have modified the curriculum provided by the national organization to better prepare students for college. The topics are modeled after what a student would learn in their first Python class. This is to address a challenge many students face when trying to pursue computer science in college without a background in it. Club meetings also provide opportunities for participants to build relationships with each other and program facilitators through community building activities, and to learn about women who use computer science and technology in their professional lives to address real world problems. By having UAZ students serve as facilitators and including presentations about women in tech, the club works to build a sense of belonging in computer science and tech among girls. Lastly students are hosted on campus to help them get familiar with college life. The club takes mini field trips to different technology and science related spaces around campus and even are encouraged to participate in campus events like hackathons.
Girls Who Code is built to not only teach python but also foster a community. The computer science world can sometimes be very harsh, by fostering an environment of kindness and community our students know they will always have a safe space. They can make lifelong friendships and connections that will help them throughout their lives.
One student who has been heavily impacted is Vanessa Campbell who joined the club her sophomore year of high school as a favor to a friend. While she did not anticipate loving coding, Vanessa quickly came to love the activities and the relationships she was able to build with other participants and facilitators. Vanessa participated in the club throughout high school and is now a third-year undergraduate student majoring in Management Information Systems at the University of Arizona. She also now serves as the club’s Lead Facilitator and Program Coordinator.
The future goal for Girls Who Code is to be constantly changing and evolving to give students the chance to expand their knowledge. This will ensure that our students are always prepared for the world whether or not they go into computer science. Contact Vaness Campbell at uagirlswhocode@gmail.com with questions.