Explore STEAM Programs

AppJam+ was the catalyst that fueled my desire to pursue a career in teaching and educational equity. Through my mentoring experience working with kids in low-income, underserved schools, it made me realize the community I want to serve. Dreams for Schools shows me the importance of equity and inclusion in Computer Science education that I hope to one day provide for my students.

Because of my AppJam+ mentor experience, I’ve decided that I’m going to pursue a teaching credential and become a high school teacher in the future. Thank you AppJam+, my fellow mentors, the kids I’ve taught and inspired, and the experience that has helped shape my future.

The most fulfilling part is that I can share my knowledge of coding to these middle schoolers. I didn't get to learn about programming until I got into high school and I wish that I was exposed to it at an earlier age. But these kids get to learn about coding languages that allow them to express their creativity through making websites, and I get to be a part of that.

The most fulfilling part of working with the students is to see their amazment when they realize all that they can accomplish. For a few of my students, they always wanted to make games, and for them to see that they actually can make those dreams come true, and accomplish even more. The smiles that these realizations bring is what makes the program truly worth it.

I was an 8th grader attending Oxford Academy and could barely understand what computer science was. Despite this, my mentors helped me out with my ambitions to the fullest extent. My mentors were encouraging and helped me through the various pits I encountered and because of this, it made the whole experience well worth it.

The AppJam+ program builds members’ confidence, helps them make connections to possible career avenues, and gives them practical experiences with the many aspects of coding. We are grateful that our members have the opportunity to engage in such an amazing program.

I wanted to be a part of an org that uplifts and motivates students. I wanted to make students feel heard and be a source of encouragement for them when they are navigating and understanding STEM.

I find it very exciting to work with kids, and I feel good about myself that I am able to share out the knowledge I have with kids, and I like to think that even though we may be a part of their life for super small time, if I was able to inspire even one kid he/she can implement the knowledge to bring a change and that's important.