Carla Bendezu, a computer science major in the College of Computing and Informatics, was recognized for her leadership and commitment to underrepresented students in area schools. For her work, she received the Outstanding Corps Student from STARS (Students in Technology, Academia, Research and Service).
Bendezu, who has led two computing apprenticeships for the Citizen Schools afterschool program, has taught students how to make video games. Also, she helped them build applications for smart phones that will allow them to detect places where there is trash, thus making them stewards of the environment.
“I like to share with younger students about the world of computing and informatics and encourage them to continue with these careers of the future,” said Bendezu. “With these degrees there are many opportunities and options to explore. We give the student a closer approach to the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); that is what we do in STARS.
“We have to keep opening doors, breaking down barriers, and breaking stereotypes. That is the only way we can ensure that our dreams and those of future generations will not die in the journey,” Bendezu added.
The STARS Computing Corps dedicated to the creation and preparation of a diverse workforce in computing for the 21st century.