Have you ever wondered how Google Maps knows the fastest way home, how TikTok always shows you videos you love, or how banks keep your money safe online? The secret behind all of this is Computer Science (CS).

Why Everyone Should Learn CS

Computer Science is not just for people who want to become software engineers. It teaches problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity. Even if you plan to be a doctor, lawyer, or artist, CS can help you understand the technology shaping our world.

Imagine creating an app that helps your community, coding a game for your friends, or designing a website for your future business. CS gives you the tools to build your ideas into reality.

How CS Is used In Daily Life

• Maps: Algorithms find the shortest and fastest routes.
• TikTok and YouTube: Machine learning recommends videos you like based on your activity.
• Banking Security: Cryptography keeps your money and information safe online.
• Healthcare: AI helps doctors detect diseases faster and more accurately.
• Shopping: Online stores use CS to recommend products you might like.

CS is at FDR

At our school, there are many opportunities to learn and explore Computer Science:

• CS A and CS B classes with Mr. Hans, where students dive deep into programming and problem-solving. Even if you’ve never done robotics before, you can still take AP CSA – just visit Mr. Hans in room 404 to learn more about joining  Mr. Hans class 404 is always open for everyone!!!  
• Coding classes with Ms. Jajoo and Ms.Lin, where you use pj5, a friendly tool for learning to code and make art, and learn coding through fun projects. 
• Robotics 1 class with Ms. Z, Robotics 2 with Ms.Ayala and Ms. Jajoo, where students learn the fundamentals of building, making some coding, and program robots.
• Robotics team/club with Mr. Catalano, where students compete in robotics competitions and develop advanced teamwork and engineering skills.
• Girls Who Code Club, supporting girls interested in coding and technology.
• STEM Club, which works on science, technology, engineering, and math projects to develop innovation and leadership.

If you’ve curious about CS, you can also start learning basics on websites like Code.org or khanacademy.org Whether you join a class or club, or just practice on your own, CS is a great way to challenge your brain and prepare for your future. 

Computer Science is everywhere around us. Whether you want to be a doctor using AI for patient care, an environmentalist analyzing climate data, or an entrepreneur building the next big app, CS will be your superpower.

So why not start today? 🙂

“Computer Science is not about computers any more than astronomy is about telescopes. It’s about thinking big and changing the world.” 

                                                          – Edsger Dijkstra (famous computer scientist)