Douglass-DIMACS Computing Corps (DDCC), a computer science-focused student organization at Douglass Residential College, is contributing to the advancement of future women technology experts. Throughout the year, Douglass students involved in the outreach program regularly visit local middle schools and act as mentors to girls interested in computing.
From designing coding games and workshops to mentoring an all-female robotics team as they developed their robot, the program seeks to increase the number of positive interactions middle school-aged girls have with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).
“The goal is to decrease the gender gap in technology,” declared program participant Gloria Salas Paucar DRC’22. “I know that my time with DDCC this past academic year, and the ones to come, will only have continuous growth for the mission.”
The programming that DDCC provides has been popular with the middle school students, with many students voluntarily returning for the sessions.
“They come back on their own accord,” said Salas, “and the ability to show them what more is out there for them with technology, and what kind of path they can have as they continue their education in this field, is something that I am grateful to be part of.”
In addition to the technical knowledge the DIMACS students pass on, their outreach work fosters a positive learning environment in which a love for technology connects mentors and mentees.
“This club's cause was both relevant and personal to me,” Samantha L. Lee DRC’22 said. “When we mentor the students, it's beyond rewarding for us to spark curiosity and passion in girls we see our younger selves in. It's a personable and hands-on experience that both parties truly enjoy.”
Ultimately, the program provides a space for Douglass Residential College women to make a difference in a cause they truly care about.
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