The summer of 2003, “it was the best of times, the worst of times, the age of wisdom, the age of foolishness, the spring of hope, and the winter of despair.” It was the beginning of the BDPA National Conference. Young people from around the country came to compete at the annual national HSCC conference held in Pennsylvania.
My name is Odaro Ighodaro, a student at Boys and Girls Highs School. Today, I am a senior in Boys and Girls, but tomorrow a college freshman. At the Conference, I was the “Lead Coder.” It was the moment and the hour I had been waiting for. Many people appeared terrified. However, I was calm, and did my best to make the team feel the same. When we met with difficulties times, we remained a team, and looked for and found strength. This was not my first competition; nor was it my last. During my recess time, I had fun, and still was able to demonstrate my love for computers, and knowledge. I was also able to interact with people of different cultures, and lifestyles.
Have I learned a lot, and am I thankful? Seriously yes. People can do so much for you, and in life you do not always get that. The members of BDPA helped me realize the importance of being educated, being committed, and being devoted. I especially want to thank Mrs. Lane, Mr. Dakers, Mr. Mills and Ms. Hamilton and my teammates. God bless everyone, for their patience.