Aditi Patil, Neighbor

Although she has only just graduated from high school, Aditi Patil has made quite the name for herself in the STEM industry. As a young, charismatic individual, Aditi has always pushed herself to be active and involved in both her community and work. She is a social entrepreneur, student, researcher, writer and volunteer.

Aditi Patil is currently attending Columbia University where she is studying computer science. She is excited to empower her fellow female peers to pursue their passion for computer science.

Aditi is the founder of XX Coders, an educational program that focuses on teaching women the importance of computer science, while also fostering a great sense of community and helping to bridge the ever-present gender and racial gap in the industry. As someone who has felt the effects of gender inequality in STEM, Aditi Patil is now determined to do whatever she can to help empower those around her to thrive in this booming industry.

Aditi wasn't always passionate about STEM. For many years, she, like many girls, believed computer science was something that was for boys. The negative stereotypes that are so prevalent in media and pop culture led her to believe that she would have no place pursuing a career in the field. However, a persistent guidance counselor convinced her to take an Intro to Java programming course her freshman year of high school. The course changed everything. Following that, she enrolled in a summer coding camp at Flatiron Academy, located in New York City. It was here that she realized the potential that computer science holds. However, she also realized the racial and gender disparity in the STEM industry.

Outside of her entrepreneurial endeavors, during her time at Half Hollow Hills High School East, Aditi was heavily involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities; she was a member of the Academic Team, and Amnesty International and was also a Mathelete at one point. Aditi also diligently served as the STEM editor for The Thunderbird, her high school's newspaper.

Even though she is still young, Aditi Patil has quite the bright future ahead of her. Just recently, she was announced as a semifinalist for the 2018 Coca-Cola Scholars Program, as well as a Regenron Science Talent Search Scholar. She has also recently been accepted into Columbia University, where she will be attending next fall.

Aditi Patil is a bright, young, eager and incredibly talented individual who is sure to set the STEM field ablaze with her dynamic personality and skills. Aditi will continue to publish blogs related to STEM, philanthropy and several of her other interests.