Embracing Challenges in the Computer Science Academy

“It’s prepared me in every way possible, with both soft skills and technical skills. Had I not had Francis Tuttle, I wouldn’t have had these classes, and I wouldn’t have made these connections.”

Growing up with a father who works as an IT manager, Kayleigh Cardona developed an interest in computer science at a young age. 

The incoming Deer Creek High School senior decided to follow in her dad’s footsteps and pursue a career in the industry, embracing the constant problem-solving that comes with computer science. Her path brought her to Francis Tuttle Technology Center’s Computer Science Academy. 

“I love challenges, and I’m constantly being challenged, whether I’m building a website or making a video game,” Cardona said. “I’m running into a lot of problems, whether it’s with technical features or just expanding my knowledge on computer science, and I’m determined to succeed.” 

As a young woman in computer science, Cardona hopes she can encourage others to consider the field. She recalled her first tour of Francis Tuttle and that she was the only woman in the room.

“It kind of pushed me toward Francis Tuttle because I wanted to change the ratio,” Cardona shared. “It was kind of disappointing at first, but now you look in the room, and you'll see half of the room is females, so that's changed a lot.” 

At the technology center, she’s found classmates who share her passion, instructors who have “been incredible,” and opportunities for growth. Cardona has also built strong friendships during her time on the Rockwell Campus. 

“I’ve had the opportunity to meet people I wouldn’t have met otherwise because Francis Tuttle has a few different schools that go here,” Cardona said. “I really found a home here, and I met some of my best friends here, so I would say there are so many opportunities here.” 

Outside of the classroom, Cardona has become a campus leader through the National Technical Honor Society, the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, the Superintendent’s Leadership Academy, and the Technology Student Association (TSA). Additionally, she is active in Deer Creek’s National Honor Society and has been a member of the school’s marching band. 

In the future, Cardona wants to work as a software developer and eventually hopes to lead a team of her own. Her leadership experiences at Francis Tuttle have reinforced that goal.

“I know I want to be a software developer, but I also want to take on some leadership positions within that field,” Cardona shared. “I've always wanted to step up and lead a group of people.”

Last summer, Cardona completed the six-week virtual Harvard Undergraduate Ventures–TECH Summer Program, where she attended business-focused lectures, learned about pitching ideas to investors, and worked with an education technology company on a real-world project.

One of Cardona’s favorite projects in the Computer Science Academy has been creating video games, including a retro-inspired baking game she developed with teammates for the TSA competition. Cardona said experiences like this, along with countless others at Francis Tuttle, have prepared her for college and her future career.

“It’s prepared me in every way possible, with both soft skills and technical skills,” Cardona said. “Had I not had Francis Tuttle, I wouldn’t have had these classes, and I wouldn’t have made these connections. Networking is such a big deal, especially in computer science, whether you go on to build different applications or different games. I feel like that’s the thing I’ve learned the most is how to collaborate with a team to achieve a common goal.”