My journey into coding began with the challenge of teaching. In high school, as a coding instructor for Code Ninjas, I navigated the complexities of programming, learning on the fly and honing my technical and soft skills. Teaching beginners required me to navigate the energy of the classroom and break down complex concepts, reinforcing my understanding and appreciation for well-written code. In addition to the depth of understanding and communication skills that came from teaching, the experience fueled my motivation to explore new ideas and technologies. Looking for more ways to advance Code Ninjas’ success, I assumed a leadership role where I could contribute behind the scenes to ensure the smooth operation of summer camps, train new hires, and continue to guide and mentor students. This experience cemented my decision to pursue computer science as a career where I can develop technical solutions, engage in collaboration, and grow as a leader.As a student at the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Washington, I am immersed in the world of code – constantly learning, debugging, and exploring the vast landscape of computer science. Beyond coding, you'll find me indulging my curiosity by reading about dinosaurs, staying active with weightlifting, and trying out new crockpot recipes.