Reality Changers: Spring Break Drone Camp

SoftStack Factory sponsored 24 Reality Changers students during the 2021 spring break period to a drone camp. The drone camp was run by Robolink a local San Diego company that produces robotic type devices and they also provide camps to learn how to program the robots. Each student received a CoDrone Mini that they got to keep after completing the course where they learned to use Python to program the drones.

SoftStack Factory is moving in a direction to support local organizations and empower them to deliver technology oriented activities to those they serve. We received a report from Reality Changers on the impact of camp and it was a very successful experience.

Reality Changers prepares youth to become first-generation college graduates and agents of change in their communities. SoftStack Factory is honored to support an organization with such a great mission.

Key Student Takeaways:

“Coding isn't as intimidating as it seems and it can also be very enjoyable.”

“Being able to break down issues into small separate parts and figuring out how each is affecting the other”

“Coding can be fun but simple/small mistakes can take a while to find.”

“That you can make anything possible in the coding world”

“I liked being able to code something and see it work”

“Persistence is key! Showing up is also half the battle.”

“I learned how to code a drone using a program called python. I also learned how to use my drone with my keyboard. I did all this while having fun”

“Coding is very specific. (One small mistake ruins whole code)”

“I learned the important of coding, and I am so delighted that I had the opportunity to learn a new skill over Spring break! I have learned the logistics of coding, and it was a fun experience! I hope to hone these skills!”

“Coding is definitely one of my interest and passion.”

“I learned how to use simple codes to create what seems like a complex movement.”

Acknowledgment

Dear Harold and SoftStack team,

Thank you for sponsoring the mini drone coding camp for 24 students this past spring break. 100% of the students rated their experience a 7/7 and thoroughly enjoyed being able to code during their spring during. During this pandemic it has been challenging to find and fund opportunities that are hands on, fun and virtual, but this camp did it all!

One of our students said:
“I have a little background in drones. I am extremely interested in them so the opportunity to be able to code a mini drone was amazing. I even get to keep my own mini drone! It was such an awesome experience so thank you for giving it to me."

We are excited to share that we saw an increase in coding interest of 62% of the 24 students who participated.

Thank you all again for this partnership!
Jordan Harrison, VP, Community Impact