Empowering Change through Code: Jackline Matesu's Journey to Bucknell University's Computer Science Program
Can you share with us your earliest memories of being fascinated by electronics and how your grandfather's radio sparked your interest in the field?
I was in primary school when I first became fascinated by electronics. At the time I was living with my grandparents in the village and my grandfather was the only one who owned a radio among his neighbors.As it is with devices, it got spoiled and I volunteered to accompany my grandfather to the repair shop. At this repair shop is where I first interacted with a motherboard and I was determined to know more about this device.
How did your move to Nairobi and the opportunity to learn English shape your journey towards pursuing computer science?
I have always been confident hence learning English was not so hard. The determination I had to learn this new language to communicate with my peers was so great that I exerted it in other subjects. Fast forward to high school I chose computer science as an elective because it posed a new challenge where I could explore programming.
When did you first start exploring computers and programming, and what was it about these fields that captivated your interest?
In high school I chose computer science as an elective. Initially it was because I did well in the subject and it was an easy A ,but as we delved into programming my understanding of how computer logic worked intrigued me. I discovered that programming could be incorporated into solving community problems, fixing devices at home and in some of my personal projects such as a water pump at my village in Bunyore.
Can you tell us about any specific experiences or projects during secondary school that solidified your passion for computer science and problem-solving?
I was in technovation club where I created an app for pregnant mothers to be able to schedule appointments so as to avoid long queues in the hospitals where some would collapse due to fatigue. The ICT club introduced me to web design and I managed to create a website prototype for movies. These experiences solidified my passion in computer science.
How did AFEX's College Application Program support you during the college application process? What resources or guidance did you find most valuable?
When I first started at Afex I didn’t know much about college application to the USA, but with time I was guided through school selection and essay writing until I had secured the best credentials to be accepted into a university.
What attracted you to Bucknell University's Computer Science program, and what do you hope to gain from your time there?
I was attracted to Bucknell’s advanced makerspaces where students are able to launch their projects and get assistance from their professors and fellow students on how to improve their projects until they achieve the desired result. The program also contains a lot of intense programming courses ranging from python, Java to React which ensure that the student is efficient in coding. The Res college for society and technology also caught my eye as one gets to mingle with other students from other tech courses and build their own network.
How do you envision using your computer science skills to address real-world challenges and make a positive impact in your community and beyond?
I envision myself being able to create apps to solve congestion in hospitals in Kenya by enabling patients to communicate with their doctors without necessarily going to the hospital and getting the medical care they need.
I also envision myself creating security systems for companies and small businesses in the community so as to ensure data security. I’m certain that with time I will be able to come up with more projects to help my community.
Are there any specific areas within computer science that you are particularly interested in exploring or specializing in during your studies?
Data security is one of the challenges facing the tech world currently, therefore I see myself exploring majorly in this area.
Can you share any past experiences or projects where you applied your computer science knowledge to solve problems or create innovative solutions?
I created an e-commerce platform for selling shoes called ‘NDULA’ for my friend whose clients had a hard time going to his shop because of the distance. This enabled him to make more sales and reach more people.
What advice would you give to other students who are passionate about computer science and want to pursue a similar path?
You should go for it because the world now revolves around technology. Technology is not static therefore you are certain to come across new ventures that will intrigue and expand your mind.
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