In June 2021, the G{Code} team launched the third cohort of Intro to G{Code}, a 10-week program designed for young female and non binary folks of color to uncover interest and aptitude in tech within a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment. The Intro to G{Code} Change Makers have shown ustheir drive, adaptability, and innovativeness as well as their commitment to community and personal growth. We are beyond proud of our Change Makers who have just graduated from the program, and are thrilled to celebrate their achievements and share some of their stories.
Today, we celebrate Jessica Peters! Jessica is from California and we have loved the positive spirit she has brought to the program! Read more about her journey below.
Why did you join G{Code}?
I joined G{Code} because I want to start a career in software engineering.
What is a favorite moment or memory from G|Code?
On my first or second day, we were coding during class, and I had a question. Rizel sent me to a breakout room with a mentor, and he clarified my question in two seconds. Two seconds! It was amazing to have someone there to answer our questions right away. I tried to self-teach how to code before G{Code}, and I’d spent hours googling my questions. It was such a relief to have someone right away to help me. I’ll miss this for sure.
What have you learned about yourself or about coding? How has participating in G{Code} impacted how you see yourself and/or your future?
I learned that coding is hard, but it can also be fun. Code is for everyone! You need to start and don’t give up. People in G|Code are so inspiring and incredible. Starting with Rizel, who is the Director of Curriculum, and who is such a nice person and open to everything. All the mentors were so helpful. I’m afraid I got too spoiled in this program, and now my expectations for other programs are set too high. Participating in this program has opened my eyes to so many unique opportunities. I started to look beyond the stereotypes around software engineering and, especially, enjoyed coding even more. I am still in a very beginning state, but I can tell that I like this, and I want to work with code.
G{Code} is a visionary non-profit striving to empower Boston’s young women of color by providing them with housing, technical training, leadership development, internship placements, and a resilient and compassionate community to learn from and grow alongside. Many thanks to Bridgette Wallace, Rizel Bobb-Semple, Bailey Siber, and the rest of the G{Code} team and volunteers for making the Intro to G{Code} program a success!
