Tilneil Gary is one of the new interns that has joined our Code the Dream team. Here is some information about Tilneil and her experience with Code the Dream.
Tell us about yourself.
I am from a very small town called Enfield located in Halifax County, NC and now reside in Raleigh. Currently, I am working as a Program Consultant for a state-wide public health teen pregnancy prevention program.
How did you hear about CTD?
I saw a TV segment on WRAL featuring Daisy Magnus-Aryitey, the Director of Code the Dream. I went online and filled out an interest form. Months later, I received an email inviting me to attend an interest meeting and to apply to the Ruby on Rails Course.
How has your experience been with CTD?
My experience has been great. It has been a challenging but rewarding experience. I would compare this to learning a new spoken language. It takes the same level of regular studying and practice. The class instructors, mentors and CTD staff have been great, they’re very supportive and dedicated.
What skills have you learned?
During the first cohort of Ruby on Rails, we were introduced to the Ruby Programming Language. Over the months, we learned to build web applications using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and Rails. With a new understanding of programming, I’m excited about all the possible applications I can help create.
What do you think makes CTD unique?
I would say that Code the Dream is unique in its partnerships with local government and community-based non-profit organizations; and the obvious fact is that the entire program is free. You only have to commit your time and enthusiasm in wanting to learn something new. Code the Dream’s involvement in the public sector was another reason I was very interested in participating in the program.
What is your dream job?
Currently, I would say my dream job would be able to work with other public health, education, social services or human rights advocacy groups to develop applications to educate or provide resources to the general public. However, I would welcome any opportunities for me to further practice and develop my programming skills. I enjoy expressing my creativity. I hope to one day make the applications I imagine a reality.