Mission
The mission of the Allen School ambassador team is to empower individuals and communities with computer science skills, tools, and frameworks as a means of innovating, mobilizing, and enacting change. While our programs are open to all, we focus on middle school and high school students in Washington who are underrepresented in computing, considering the intersections of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, income and ability/disability. We strive to show students that computer science is a field that is not only attainable, but also one where they can thrive. We also work to build sustainable relationships with students, other constituents from schools, and community organizations.
What We Do
Allen School ambassadors conduct K-12 outreach activities for middle school and students. We travel to middle and high schools in Washington as well as host field trips on the University of Washington - Seattle campus. Our programs and activities include:
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Access (DEIA) in Tech Presentation
We have a presentation about why DEIA is vital in tech. This presentation highlights leading historical modern-day figures in computing and a group activity to research an important tech figure. We also lead a small group activity about how technology can be used to solve social issues and how it impacts different groups of people.
Machine Learning and Algorithmic Bias Lesson & Activity
We have a presentation about machine learning and algorithmic bias, followed by an activity to create and train a machine learning model.
Computing in Practice Presentation
We have an interactive presentation about different real-life applications of computing. This is a great presentation for students who are new to computing!
Student Panels
We conduct student panels with our student ambassadors about computer science/computer engineering, the University of Washington, college life, and other advice and reflections.
and more!
Connect with Us
Follow Ambassadors Instagram
Follow us on Instagram for updates on our outreach events and to learn more about what it is like to be an Allen School undergraduate student!
Interested in being an ambassador? [Allen School students only]
The Allen School ambassador position is a paid student position. Applicants must be an Allen School undergraduate student. Applications are open once per year in May for the following academic year. Students who are offered the position need to be able to commit to a minimum of 5 hours per week for the entire academic year.