When I first joined the Lavender Spaceship program, I didn’t find coding fascinating. Due to the fact that I have only seen boys do coding, I viewed it as an area that specifically interests boys. But after trying it out for a few weeks, I found myself diving deeper into the aspects of coding that are enjoyable, and it slowly changed my perspective towards it.
The first programming language that I started with was HTML and CSS. This introduced me to simple text-based coding and guided me to depict my work in a presentable manner. I learned how to code websites, change colors, add fonts and pictures, and much more. I took inspiration from individuals and my surroundings which helped me develop my own awesome website. Being a big fan of Simone Biles, I dedicated my first web page to her.
Gold medalist Simone Biles Alex Livesey | Getty Images
I have also tried Scratch programming. This was a fun platform that helps young girls get the hang of coding in an easy way. Scratch is a programming language where we girls can learn how to program games and stories, and develop interactive conversations using the different characters provided. Yes, I faced many challenges while learning to code but my teacher constantly assisted me with my projects. She gave me clues to help me think further, eventually getting the code right. Nothing is ever easy at first, but when you try to challenge yourself, your mind develops further!
Over time, by doing extensive research and reading up on women in STEM, I began to take my classes at Lavender Spaceship more seriously. I recently started high school and I’ve already taken the opportunity to join coding clubs and get myself involved more. As I learn more about the creative side of coding, I plan on starting my own club at school and teaching underprivileged children how to code. Helping young children and giving them the support they deserve will not only help me further my knowledge but also inspire others to try coding.
Yes, I faced many challenges while learning to code but my teacher constantly assisted me with my projects. She gave me clues to help me think further, eventually getting the code right. Nothing is ever easy at first, but when you try to challenge yourself, your mind develops further!
I am currently on Python level two, which is a high-level programming language and is text-based like HTML. Slowly, I’ve also learned how to apply coding to my real life in some ways. For instance, I recently developed a calculator using python which is an application that can be used in my school life.
I am looking forward to finishing the second level of python, and I’m eager to start the next course! With that being said, I would definitely recommend girls to start learning how to code at a young age, find a creative side of it that they like, and take inspiration from many amazing women in STEM out there!
Milana Khiani, Age 15