Leo is a junior at University of Washington studying Computer Science and Data Science. We hired him as one of the Breakout Mentors summer interns due to his ability to work with a wide range of students, everything from beginner Python, AP CS A Java, and web development. He even built some impressive features for the Portal website we use to run our business! Let’s get to know him:
When did you start to code?
I first learned how to code in my sophomore year of high school when I decided to make a gesture controlled Arduino car. While the project was difficult, it was really cool to see how code can be used to detect readings from sensors to make motors move in a desirable manner. After that I learned Python and Java by making projects for internships and my university classes which advanced that previous foundation a little further.
What is your favorite game or project you have created with a student?
2048 was always one of my favorite childhood games to play when my teachers would give us free time in the computer lab, so I was super excited to code it out with one of my students. The code itself was a little tricky, so it was really fun to tackle the challenge of making sliding blocks that combine with each other in the 4×4 grid.
What advice do you have for kids learning how to code?
Never give up! When I first started coding the information was hard to grasp, especially in understanding how “for” loops worked. However, I kept at it and over time these techniques became really easy to implement in my own programs. The key is to stay consistent with your practice and keep making projects, and then the learning will fall right into place!