During the 2019-2020 school year, the Stir Scholarship committee awarded inaugural scholarships to three young women who will be pursuing college degrees in computer software. These women come from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. We asked them to tell us about themselves and are highlighting one person each week. We hope that reading their stories will inspire other young women to pursue software degrees and apply for the Stir Scholarship.
Today’s featured scholarship recipient is Brooke Ackley. Brooke graduated from Thomas Worthington High School and is now a student at Cedarville University University. Here are some things Brooke told Stir Scholarship President Cassandra Faris about herself.
Cassandra: How did you hear about this scholarship?
Brooke: My AP Computer Science teacher told me about the scholarship because she knew I was going to major in computer science.
Cassandra: What motivated you to study technology?
Brooke: Technology is so important. I want to make technology better for everybody.
Cassandra: Why do you enjoy programming?
Brooke: I really enjoy programming because I can create programs for so many different reasons. I like having a problem and trying to find a way to fix it.
Cassandra: What are your favorite extracurriculars and hobbies?
Brooke: I love playing soccer, traveling with my family, and spending time with my little cousins.
Each scholarship applicant wrote an essay about how they plan to change the world with technology. Brooke’s essay talked about an important topic - making technology accessible for people with disabilities. She said:
“I want to be able to study computer science to continue to improve technology. My main focus though will be on accessibility. I want people that have disabilities to use technology like any other person. They experience a lot more difficulty when it comes to technology. Most people don't think of the struggles that people with disabilities face on a daily basis. I want to help fix their problems and help them live independent lives.”
Accessibility is a hot topic in today’s software industry as more and more companies realize its importance. We’re excited to see how Brooke contributes to a more accessible internet for everyone.
