Meet Salma Petrov, a Code/Art alumnus and 2024 high school graduate headed to the University of Central Florida where she’ll be studying Computer Science. Salma has been a Code/Art Summer Camp Intern as well as a top contestant for the past 2 years. She was also a member of Code/Art’s Future Tech LeadHers club during her senior year and participated in Code/Art’s 2024 ChangeMaker competition! Read the interview below for insights into her experience with Code/Art programs and her journey to a computer science major!
When and how did you get introduced to Code/Art?
I got introduced to Code/Art during my junior year of high school when I switched to School for Advanced Studies – North (SAS), a school affiliated with Miami Dade College. It was through my math teacher, Ms. Hauser, who worked with Code/Art, that I learned about the organization. She knew I was interested in computer science and encouraged me to explore their programs, competitions, and internships. I joined the Future Tech LeadHers program at our school and participated in Code/Art’s ChangeMaker Competition. While my group didn’t advance far in my Junior year, the experience motivated me to lead the effort senior year as head of Future Tech Leaders. I introduced many other girls to Code/Art and encouraged them to participate in competitions like CodeYourSelf™, Game Design, and Changemaker.
What were some takeaways that you got from participating in Code/Art’s Future Tech LeadHER’s Club at your school?
Participating in Code/Art’s Future Tech LeadHER’s Club taught me essential teamwork skills. The most important is knowing how to work with others. It emphasized the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and the ability to contribute ideas within a group setting. These soft skills are crucial for success in any team-based environment, and being part of Future Tech LeadHers helped me develop them.
Let’s talk about some future plans. What university are you going to and what are you planning to study?
I’m going to the University of Central Florida in Orlando, and I’m going to be majoring in Computer Science.
Do you think that Code/Art played a role in your decision to pursue a degree in computer science?
Code/Art played a huge role in my decision to pursue a degree in computer science. Before discovering Code/Art, I saw computers as purely technical and separate from my artistic interests. However, learning about Code/Art’s mission and values showed me the creative potential within computer science. It reassured me that I could blend my creativity with technical skills. This realization significantly motivated me to continue pursuing computer science as a field of study.
How did the Code/Art community support you in your pursuits and STEM-related interests? Were you challenged in any way?
My math teacher, Ms. Hauser, was my main contact for Code/Art, providing me with a lot of information and support. Initially, participating in their competitions felt daunting, especially seeing past submissions. Stepping out of my comfort zone to compete for the first time was a significant challenge, but it was incredibly rewarding. I couldn’t have done it without my teacher’s guidance. As an intern, I had the chance to interact with Code/Art staff, which improved my communication skills and introduced me to Amy, who founded the organization to empower girls in tech. Meeting Amy and seeing how Code/Art has grown with numerous partners and events was inspiring! Taking that initial leap was tough, but it opened up more opportunities for me along the way.
Considering your experience, would you—when talking to a younger girl— recommend that they take part in a program like Code/Art and if so, why?
Absolutely, I would 100% recommend programs like Code/Art to younger girls. Many girls shy away from computer science thinking they need to excel in math or STEM, but Code/Art breaks that stereotype by showcasing the creative aspects of coding. Their competitions and programs demonstrate that coding can be artistic and adaptable to individual interests. By introducing more girls to Code/Art’s values and mission, we can inspire more girls to pursue computer science without fear!
Thank you for sharing your story with us!
~end of interview~
