tl;dr — CiP by Stanford is an extremely well structured, global classroom, full of kind Section Leaders and curious students.

Over the past six Fridays, I had the privilege of volunteering as a Section Leader for Code in Place — a free introductory programming course using the Python language, based on material from the first half of Stanford University’s established intro course, CS106A (source: CiP website).

Why you should apply as a Student?

My first introduction to programming was in 9th grade, when we had Java as a subject. The first thing that we were taught was Object-Oriented programming concepts and that was overwhelming for someone who had just started coding. Eventually, I learned to like it and decided to pursue a Computer Science degree. But looking back, I realize I never truly understood what problem-solving in programming really meant until later in my degree.

CiP does it right, it starts by introducing you to how to actually solve problems and then builds on top of it. CS is basically just problem solving, and programming languages are tools we use to solve said problems. If you are someone who wants to start programming, take an Intro to Python course by Stanford. It is a course built with caution, with assignments which will challenge you and offer all the help you could ever need while starting your journey (biggest community of teachers).

Why you should apply as a Section Leader?

As someone who was in their third year of a CS degree while teaching this program, I applied to be a Section Leader because I loved programming, enjoyed teaching, and honestly — had free time on Friday nights. I didn’t expect the experience to be so transformative.

Almost everyone in my section was being introduced for the first time, and because they all applied voluntarily, they actually did want to learn. From attending the sections actively, to asking doubts via email, my section absorbed all the knowledge I could provide. This not only improved my communication skills, but also made me a patient, empathetic teacher.

I was actually able to help, I was able to contribute to someone’s learning. And that too, sitting in my own room to curious people from all over the world. I am proud of myself for being able to help my section students and doing the best I could as a Section Leader.

If you have the time and want to apply as a Section Leader, absolutely do it. You will be required to make a five minute video of your teaching as a demo, a few basic questions, and that’s it! You would’ve successfully applied as a SL and made your summer a little more interesting.

Code in Place is a clear example of how you can receive quality education from anywhere in the world. It isn’t just about coding, it’s a global classroom with a lot of kindness and curiosity. I’m proud to have been a part of it, and I hope you’ll consider joining too — as a student or a Section Leader.