I decided to opt for Computer Science in Year 9 as one of my GCSEs because I am genuinely interested in technology and I feel I was rather good at it. Many people said to me that only boys select this subject, and they are way better than girls as well as achieve superior grades than me. All this, I felt, was stereotypical thinking. I achieved what I wanted to do, and I feel I made the right choice as I do well in the subject and believe it will help me for my future.

When I initially joined Computer Science, I saw the gender split of more boys deciding on this subject. Infact, I am currently the ONLY girl in a class of 22 boys. Initially, I was discouraged by the fact that I was the only girl who chose Computer Science, but everyone in my class supported and encouraged me. After 10 months of studying the subject, I definitely do not feel it’s only for boys or they are better or will get better grades than me; I am achieving well in my class and enjoying the subject just as I expected.

Computer Science helps us get comfortable with coding and grow confident in our abilities. It also supports us and offers excellent opportunities for true creativity and innovativeness.

Computer Science is just a subject that “was” associated with just boys, however it’s not. More girls choosing Computer Science changes this gap and stereotype. This subject I believe helps me for my career and life.

By Rakchiga Kajenthiran 10 Willow