High Five Celebration

The Southern MN YCTP provides educational opportunities for a diverse range of students with an emphasis on interacting within teams. Over 40 diverse students representing half a dozen ethnicities from grades 7 through 12, come to the computer lab each week. Not only are they truly learning the importance of team collaboration but have the opportunity to learn about, share, and show respect for cultural diversity. The teamwork and enthusiasm displayed by the students and over a dozen volunteers from IBM and the Mayo Clinic is truly awe inspiring. This year’s course covered HTML, JavaScript, CSS, PHP, MySQL, and project management, and builds towards a goal of attaining computer science I and II high school credit to reward the students’ for their effort and education.

 As a  new student at an American high school, I hadn't had an opportunity
to take computer course before I participated YCTP. In YCTP, I get the
basic concepts about computer science. Those basic concepts will help me to
better understand computer science in college next year, as I decided to
major in it at Iowa State University. Thank you for giving me the
opportunity to participate this program.

Sincerely,
Zhenfeng Liu

 The YCTP course helped me tremendously! I had pretty much taught myself
basic HTML, and felt like I had a reasonably good working knowledge of
programming. My only regret is that I did not give it full justice
initially. There is still so much I don't know, but I now have enough
familiarity with the different architectural rules that I can benefit from
high level books and programming websites. I used to use basic programming
in assignments, including international website competitions. I consider
the most important part of the course as PHP/MySQL. I, including everyone
else in this course, have built several applications throughout the YCTP
program, which is a good way to learn (interactive vs. technical). I should
say also that not only have the instructors been very knowledgeable, but
also encouraging, respectful, and very funny in class. It was a huge time
sacrifice to give up Saturday mornings for the courses, but the knowledge I
gained, and the instructors personable style made it more than worthwhile.
I highly recommend partaking in the YCTP programming course.

Sincerely,
Adwait Walimbe

 My name is Ahmed Mahamad and I am a person who extremely enjoys using the
computer. Not just for fun and games but also for knowledge. In 2005 I
joined BDPA, and this was a great experience for me. While I thought it
would be like any other boring class, what I have learned cannot be
compared to any other class. This class also taught programming techniques
such as HTML, PHP, MySQL, CSS, and JAVASCRIPT. Technical skills like these
are what you need to be successful many businesses these days.

What kept me motivated in BDPA was the competition we all were preparing
for. Last year I was in the competition team in which we competed against
many skilled chapters, but we came to the top as 2nd place. Not only have I
managed to absorb a great deal of knowledge but also respect toward all
people. I wish this program could someday be international rather than just
national!

Sincerely,
Ahmed Mahamad

 Our YCTP program is noted for its ability to equip its students with the
skills that are vital for success. Our YCTP curriculum includes topics such
as HTML, Javascript, CSS, PHP and MySQL. Using these skills, we are able to
develop good programming skills and in the future increase opportunities
for fruitful careers and professions in technological fields. This year,
emphasis is placed on the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Within
small groups, we have begun the planning and implementation process of our
web businesses."

Classes have been very successful so far due to the tremendous amount of
effort and participation of students. This diverse group of students ranges
from grades 8 through 12. On Saturdays, students come to class very
enthusiastic to learn and improve their skill in computer programming. The
dedication of our instructors and volunteers has also played a major role
in the effectiveness of this program."

This program has broadened and improved my knowledge of computer
programming. Through YCTP I have learned to manage my time wisely and focus
on what’s important. It has taught me to persevere and has granted me the
opportunity to express my creativity.

Sincerely,
Yaa Kwansa

 YCTP has changed my life becuase it taught me ways in which I could make
some of my school projects better, and it also made me learn how
I can interact with with other people over the internet. YCTP also
increased my interests on the electronic fields. Hopefully in the near
future
I will get the chance to get into more depth with the programs. I am
thankful to have such a wonderful opportunity to participate in such a
great program! I thank every one from the founders to the instructors who
made
this possible!

Sincerely,
Mohamed Ibrahim

 I am a returning student at the Southern Minnesota Chapter. What caught my
interest to join YCTP was to expand my knowledge in technology and science.
YCTP has had a positive impact on my educational career. Returning as a
second year student, I not only learned more about technology and
programming but began to consider the IT field as a possible major. I
believed that BDPA is a great starting point for young students to
experience with technology. I am delighted that I made the right choice to
participate in BDPA Youth Computer Training Program.

Sincerely,
Dehang Zheng

 I've been a part of the Youth Computer Training Program (YCTP) for
approximately 5 years, and each year I learn something new. Of course,
there are the usual things any standard computer class should teach such
as: HTML, PHP, and other programming languages. But even more importantly,
YCTP has taught me about teamwork. By joining YCTP, I've made many new
friends within my own class as well as at the national competitions.
Meeting these people and learning about their life experiences, and their
reasons for joining their local YCTP have encouraged me to continue
training in technology. In a world where teenagers never seem to be
acknowledged or encouraged enough, the YCTP program has taken it upon
themselves to lift up the youth of this nation, thereby enabling them to
achieve an even higher sense of accomplishment.

Elise Jefferson