Meet Catapult Nigel
September 23rd, 2016
We’d like to introduce you to Nextech Catapult Nigel (center). He is one 16 Central Indiana juniors and seniors who embarked on a yearlong journey with us to turn their passion for technology into a career path. We recently chatted with Nigel to learn more about his plans to become a software developer, what he learned over the summer and favorite games and apps.
Nextech: Tell us a little bit about yourself, Nigel.
Nigel: I’m a senior at Tindley. I like to listen to music and play games on my laptop. I produce beats and write poetry. I also volunteer at Forest Manor and help with local gardening activities. I will do anything I can do to give my help to the community.
Nextech: What are your plans after high school?
Nigel: Go to a college with a good computer science program like Purdue or IU Bloomington.
Nextech: Why are you interested in computer science?
Nigel: The vision of the future, to me, is the increased development of computers. I want to get a career as a software developer, creating and programming software.
Nextech: Is that your dream job?
Nigel: Yes, to be a software developer and have everyone buy my software.
Nextech: Do you want to work for a cool tech company or start your own business?
Nigel: Google first then create my own company
Nextech: You mentioned earlier that you like to play video games. What are some of your favorites?
Nigel: Clash Of Clans, League Of Legends, Minecraft, Garry’s Mod
Nextech: Would you rather have unlimited play of one video game for life or play any game for only one hour a week?
Nigel: Any game I want.
Nextech: Favorite app?
Nigel: Clash of Clans. Literally an addictive game.
Nextech: Favorite website?
Nigel: Slither.io. Another addictive game.
Nextech: What did you gain from the Catapult program over the summer?
Nigel: I KNOW HOW TO CODE! I learned HTML,CSS and Javascript. I completed a portfolio and projects I can display. My mental toughness was pushed to the max. When times got hard, they taught me to believe in myself and just take a deep breath because I could do it. I feel like I can handle anything now.
Nextech: Explain the easiest and hardest parts of coding.
Nigel: Easiest: the yearning for the end result. Hardest: Making a mistake you can’t see.
Nextech: Who are your heroes?
Nigel: My parents. They came from impoverished areas and have worked hard to make a better living for my brothers and me.
Nextech: Best advice you’ve received.
Nigel: Never let someone tell you you can’t do something. Don’t limit your dreams. Hard trials are necessary to establish truth.
Nextech: Anything you’d like to add?
Nigel: I’d like to give a shout out to my guidance counselor for helping me get selected for this [Catapult program]. I didn’t think I’d get it. Catapult has opened my heart to realize I can be successful.