Mariko Thorbecke an Hawaii Preparatory Academy senior has received the 2012 National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Award for Aspirations in Computing. She is one of 35 winners chosen nationwide.
Of the competition and award, Thorbecke observed:
“It’s amazing that young women have these types of opportunities to further their interest in computer science and technology…It’s a great way to make connections early on with other students who are equally as passionate about this up and coming field.”
Thorbecke’s scientific passions run strong and deep and she’s building and impressive array of scientific experiences as she prepares for college.
She has worked on projects at HPA’s energy lab- including energy monitoring and brain research. Her current project is a virtual reality tour of the Energy Lab. She interns with the W.M. Keck Observatory.
Never content to rest on her laurels, Thorbecke also heads a team that made two presentations at the January 2012 MacWorld/iWorld Conference.
About the Award
The NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing honors young women at the high-school level for their computing-related achievements and interests. Awardees are selected for their computing and IT aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for post-secondary education.(NCWIT)
