Sunday, December 12, 2010

Feedback: Parent of HSCC Alumni Tyrone Hinderson (Los Angeles, 2007-2010)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) provides funding for programs that advance its members in the IT industry from the classroom to the boardroom. Advancement comes from relationships and volunteer efforts taking place in 45 chapter cities around the country.

Sometimes we aren't sure if our efforts are making a difference. At those times of uncertainty ... it feels good to read a message like this one from the parent of Tyrone Hinderson.

Our family began our journey with BDPA in January 2007. My son Tyrone reluctantly attended the orientation for the High School Computer Competition (HSCC) program.

After deciding to check the program out Tyrone became totally engrossed in the Saturday classes. The instructors, being African American IT professionals, have been great mentors and role models for my son. He has learned so many valuable things as a result of his four year experience. Tyrone has used his programming skills to create video games, build web sites, and enhance his ability to excel in his high school AP Computer Science course.

BDPA teaches the students teamwork and networking skills; how to facilitate, plan, organize and conduct meetings, deliver speeches, in addition, to developing programming skills. In addition, Tyrone was taught how to conduct himself at conventions, and has traveled to Washington DC, Atlanta, North Carolina, and Philadelphia to represent BDPA Los Angeles chapter in the High School Computer Competition (HSCC) at the annual BDPA National convention.

When Tyrone applied to colleges, he was able to use his BDPA experience to demonstrate skills by reference in his college and scholarship applications. Tyrone was accepted with scholarships to: Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, Harvey Mudd College, Pomona College, Tufts University, UCLA, Wesleyan University and several other institutions. He is currently enrolled at Columbia University majoring in Computer Science and Biology.

Colleges are seeking students with the skills made available to dedicated students who participate in the BDPA HSCC program. I encourage all parents to introduce BDPA HSCC to other students, families and friends. Tyrone plans on being a lifetime member of BDPA, and will be a participant at future events and conventions, further expanding his knowledge base.

Thank you,
Mrs. Staci Evans Hinderson
Tyrone P. Hinderson’s parent

I had a big smile on my face as I read this letter from Mrs. Hinderson. I hope this blog post has the same impact on you! If, in the future, you feel like you're uncertain about your future with BDPA ... just come back and read this letter!

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