Undergraduate / My Love For Technology: Common App Essay #1 [4]

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. [650 word limit]

computer geek confession

After assembling computer components for nearly 10 hours, it was finally time to turn the PC on. My heart was pounding with adrenaline as all of the time and money I had invested into my first computer was coming down to one moment. I pressed the power button; the fans spun, the LEDs turned on, and the screen flashed before my eyes. It truly was one of the most satisfying feelings I had ever experienced.

From computers to programs, I have always enjoyed working with and discovering new tech. I built my first computer when I was twelve years old, but ever since I was a little kid, I loved playing on the computer. After coming home from preschool, instead of watching my favorite TV shows, I would hop online to play games that were inspired by those shows. While learning how to type in elementary school, I always made it my goal to be the fastest typist in the class. Although other interests of mine faded as time went on, my obsession with tech did not.

Once I got to high school, I incorporated technology into other portions of my life. Freshmen year, I started "Daniel's Tech Help" where I passed out business cards around my neighborhood for anybody who might computer need help. Subsequently, I went to people's homes and fixed their computers, routers, and printers while making some extra cash. When I was a sophomore, I started and was president of the Tech Club at Las Lomas. We met once a month to discuss new technology that was released such as phones, video games, and cars. During my junior year, I enrolled in a programming class, where I found a new passion.

Prior to taking IntroCS, I had little knowledge of programming, but once I took the class, I instantly fell in love and would look forward to programming every day. I learned how to code Java, and it was fascinating to see my coding skills grow as the year progressed. This led me to delve into other programming languages such as HTML where I developed a website for a tea company called Sip Sense. In addition to this, I created a website for a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the poor in Cambodia, Khmer Buddhist Relief. In addition, I set up a total of six computers in a physician's office. I built, wired, and connected all of them to a network so they could work together seamlessly.

Recently, I incorporated my love for technology and computers into my Eagle Scout project where I led a team of scouts and built four computers and donated them to the Boys and Girls Club. Throughout the project, I used my loved for technology and my leadership skills to complete the project successfully. Nevertheless, there were a few problems that arose during the project such as the computer not booting or not being able to connect to the internet. Working as a team, instead of separately, allowed us to fix the problems in an efficient manner. The most rewarding part of the entire project was getting to deliver the computers to the Boys and Girls Club. Many of the kids at the club were underprivileged and did not even have a computer in their own home. So, when four brand new, ultra fast, PCs were given to them to use, they were very excited - one of the kids even exclaimed, "This is the best day of my life!" It was great to see my knowledge for technology benefitting other people within my community.

In college, I plan to pursue my passion for technology by majoring in computer science. I will put all of my mental and physical resources into obtaining that degree, but I must not forget the reason why I wanted the degree in the first place. It is is crucial that I remember my love for technology is the driving force for what I do in college, and later on in life.

I am 14 words above the word limit, so any cut recommendations would be great.