4. Is there one thing or one person who particularly inspired you to pursue your interest in Computer Science?

My exposure to simple Computer Science in Year 1 is what led me to where I am today. Most importantly, my parents were always supportive of my interest and they’ve always encouraged me to pursue this interest further.

A person who inspired me a lot was Ms Stevens, former Head of Technology here in DCB when I started participating in competitions. She has always encouraged me to move forward and recently sent me her regards through my teacher. Knowing a former teacher still knows what I’m up to is really motivating. Having my family, my peers and my teachers’ support certainly pushes me to continuously improve.

5. Where do you see yourself 15 years from now?

Big corporate companies like Microsoft and Google are integral parts of our life, so I feel I could work there. I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Microsoft headquarters in Seattle, and that was really appealing to me. I can also project myself in the field of automated cars. When I think about the goals of a job, it would be to create and enjoy. For me, working in Computer Science, or Technology in general, would mean I could create something to change people’s life which I really enjoy, so I’d feel lucky about that. I really see myself in a big technology company, or even NASA. I would love to explore the space in a rocket I would have designed!

6. Quick choice of words.

Cat or Dog? Cat. They can sometimes be too independent, but dogs seem too demanding for me.

Great Wall or 798? 798. My mom is in the Arts field, so I want to show her the same support that she has always shown me. It’s a way to encourage each other and share our interests.

Analysis or synthesis? Analysis. Computer Science competitions have a lot of little traps to differentiate between candidates, so it’s important to pay attention to details. I also enjoy problem-solving and that usually requires analysing input. I really enjoy books like What If by Randall Munroe, which involves scientific analysis to solve absurd hypothetical questions.

Marathon or sprint? Marathon. My mom is a marathon-runner while my dad runs semi-marathons. My parents show me the value of perseverance and endurance, both mentally and physically. I find a lot of satisfaction in completing a challenge after pushing myself.