Written By: Jeffries F. Epps, Staff Writer
Fayetteville, NC—Jayden Scott, a rising 8th grader at Luther Nick Jeralds Middle School, emerged as the standout star at the recent 5 Day Cyber Basics and Video Game Creation STEM Camp held at Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC). The camp, aimed at introducing students to the fundamentals of cybersecurity through the OSI Model, used Kodu Game Lab to create simulations that visually represent the seven layers of the OSI model.
Jayden’s natural aptitude for coding became evident as he effortlessly tackled the coding challenges presented to him. His peers and instructors alike were impressed by his ability to navigate complex programming concepts with ease.
During a campus tour, the reason behind Jayden’s exceptional performance became apparent. When the group visited the campus library, Jayden inquired if they had a chess board available. The librarian, admitting she never learned to play chess, was taken aback when Jayden offered her a lesson. The young prodigy’s chess skills quickly became the center of attention.
Instructor Jeffries Epps, who was leading the tour, watched in amazement as Jayden explained the intricacies of the game. Epps realized that Jayden’s prowess in chess was the discrete skill that facilitated his smooth transition to coding.
“Chess involves coding and decoding your opponent’s moves. This is the same skill set required for computer programming and cybersecurity. He’s a natural,” Epps remarked. His observation highlighted the parallels between strategic thinking in chess and problem-solving in coding, underscoring the importance of fostering diverse skills in young students.
Jayden’s journey at the STEM camp not only showcased his talents but also illuminated the potential pathways available to students when they are given the right opportunities and guidance. The camp, designed to create awareness of IT opportunities and FTCC’s affiliation with the Carolina Cyber Network, succeeded in inspiring a new generation of tech enthusiasts.
Jayden’s story is a testament to the power of strategic thinking and its application across various fields. As he continues his academic journey, there is no doubt that his skills in both chess and coding will serve as a strong foundation for a promising future in cybersecurity and computer programming.
The success of the camp and Jayden’s performance underscore the importance of such initiatives in preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s digital world.