I teach "Introduction to Computer Programming" at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. I didn't decide to make teaching my career until later in my life. I liked algebra, geometry and trigonometry in high school and I learned a little about computers during a Computer Science summer camp. But, it wasn't until after I graduated from college with a degree in Forestry that I wanted to know more about Computer Science. To prepare for graduate school, I needed to take more courses about programming and using computers to store information. When I got accepted to Graduate School I also was hired as a teaching assistant. I started teaching students to program and this is how I learned that I like teaching. My main goal in teaching students who are new to programming, is to show them how much fun it can be. The possibilities are endless.

Mulhern was born in 1970. When she was about your age her parents purchased a computer with a text version of Pacman installed on it. This program used a capital c (C) to represent the Pacman when it was going right and had its mouth open and a lower case c (c) to represent the Pacman when it was moving right and had its mouth closed. She didn't get to play it very often, because her parents were worried that she'd break the computer. Consequently, she never became very good at playing video games. Much to her surprise however, she is a good programmer. She suspects this is due to her powerful mind and the fact that she has been teaching people how to program for several years now. So far, though, all her students have been at least 16 years old. You will be the youngest students she has ever had.

Latita Pratt is from Charlotte, NC. Her love of math and fascination of the computer in high school led her to pusue a degree in computer science. She graduated with a bachelor of science degree in computer science in May 2001 form Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia. Latita enjoys the field of computer science because of the challenging and problem-solving opportunities it provides. Latita also enjoys studying computer science because it is improving the performance of other industries all over the world.

I grew up in Orlando, FL with my Mother, Father, and Sister. My family always encouraged me to ask questions and learn about the things that I thought interesting. At a young age, I became fascinated by computers. It became a permanent item on my Christmas list. It wasn't until I was a Junior in High School that my family finally got their first PC. Using the most basic programs filled me with curiosity. When I started college, I knew very little about the way computers worked, but I was able to use my home PC with some skill. I decided that I would attempt to study Computer Science. This was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Shortly after starting my college career, I realized that my fascination with computers was not misplaced. Computers are like puzzles for me. With a little time and study, I am able to slowly create a picture from the pieces of the computer.

Amber is a student, who is also learning to write object-oriented programs in Java. She volunteered today so she could help other students learn too.

Lynne has been a presenter for Environmental Studies sessions in past "Expanding Your Horizon" workshops and also wanted to help students carve their pumpkin applets.