Being recognized for their hard work in technology, students in Ms. Denise Snow’s Web Design and Mr. Terry Lively’s Video Game Design classes received awards and scholarships from the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) to surpass or improve their college application process.

“This award is for anyone who has a passion or love for technology or encourages the use of it,” Snow said. “I am very proud of the students that actually applied, but I do wish that more applied to at least have a chance.”

The NCWIT Award for Aspirations is given to females who are active in computing and technology. The recipients are chosen for their shown interest and achievements in computing, proven leadership ability, academic performance and plans for post‑secondary education.

“I won the Award for Aspirations in Computer Science,” senior Cali Javallena said. “I know that every dollar counts when it comes to applying to colleges and trying to be accepted, so I took the chance and now I have something else to add to my resumé.”

Each award winner and honorable mention gets to attend the Regional Affiliate Award event and get an engraved award for both her and her school. Winners also receive a cash prize and trip to the National Award Celebration in March, which is hosted by Bank of America.

“It was very encouraging to get this award because it made me aware that I [can be part of the] tech community, and that I can pursue STEM in my future careers and goals,” senior Abigail weeks said.

More than 12,000 women have been honored with the Award for AiC, but seven of them were selected from SWCTA. The students recognized for this award are Mika Nicole Cabasug, Abigail Weeks, Gabrielle Desear, Cali Javellana, Cathy Zhu, Elizabeth Wigington and Moe Myint Kyal Sin.

“I won the award for honorable mention,” senior Cathy Zhu said. “I didn’t win the national award, but they still wanted to take the time to mention my achievements in technology. I applied by talking about this class and what I have done for Web Design, my client work and Girls In Tech.”

An award ceremony will be held at Zappos‘ Downtown Headquarters on Saturday, April 6 from 5-7 p.m. to congratulate the winners and honorable mentions.

“Students who did apply have a possibility of winning anywhere from $300 to a $10,000 scholarship towards college for just writing one simple essay,” Snow said. “I am so pleased to hear that several of my students did win, and I can’t wait to see them at the award ceremony.”