Reading the complex code closely, Senior Owen Cook examines the process as he attempts to figure out an algorithm. Trying to identify the type of code for his program, he circles the answer he believes to have the most merit.
“Time is up, put your pencils down and turn in your papers to the front desk.”
Scrambling to finish the last few problems, Cook hands in his test for a UIL computer science test. Walking away from the contest, he feels nervous about his results, believing he didn’t do well in his first competition.
Not being able to stand waiting inside for results, Cook decided to take equipment back to the van. During his absence, his group of contestants listened for the UIL awards.
“First place, computer programming, Owen Cook.”
As he entered the building again, everyone stared at him, and proceeded to tell him the news. After unexpectedly winning first, he realizes something he didn’t know he had before, a talent.
“I didn’t realize I had so much talent in it,” Cook said. “I felt like I found my calling,”
Cook’s habit was coming late to school every day, forgetting homework, sleeping through lectures, and getting failing grades- he wasn’t the most dedicated student in school. Cook didn’t know what skill he possessed. Lacking any drive to work hard in school, he contemplated dropping out.
But after finding his passion in computer programming, he found his purpose in life, and an inspiration to keep attending high school. Now Cook arrives at school on time, does his homework, listens to his teachers and passes his classes.
“Before I got into computer programming, I didn’t have much motivation for anything,” Cook said. “But computer programming inspired me to do something with my life.”
