UCS student gets a jump on dream career, courtesy of Ivy Foundation

A dream career in computer science is one step closer for Utica Community Schools junior Christina Li, courtesy of a summer scholarship.

Li, who attends Stevenson High School and Utica Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology, participated in a study program at Stanford University this summer through the Joyce Ivy Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to broadening the college aspirations of talented female high school students from the Midwest.

Li, who intends to pursue a career in computer science, took two computer courses at Stanford, earning straight A‘s and college credit from the university.

“I felt like the experience expanded my own knowledge,” Li said. “I also appreciated being around people who are interested in computer science.”

She was one of 80 students to earn the grant based on academic achievement, leadership in extracurricular and community activities, and potential for the summer program experience to be transformative.

The summer scholarship was one of a number of honors received by Li in the area of computer science. She was named the runner-up for the 2012-2013 NCWIT Award for Aspiration in Computing, sponsored by the National Center for Women and Information Technology.

She was also one of 15 students in Michigan to also earn 2013 Michigan Regional NCWIT Awards for Aspirations in Technology.