- Mouse Alum, DreamYard Prepratory School
- Mouse Digital Portfolio: Lane Builder
Why did you get involved with Mouse at your high school?
From helping her older brothers build robots to exploring computers at age four, Karila has always been interested in tech. Through Mouse, Karila “had the chance to experience tech in a way I have never known before.”
As a member of Mouse, Karila led seminars on technology and digital media for teachers and students, noting “the school cares about what students can teach.” Additionally, “the dean often says we can count on Mouse for many things because the Mouse students solve problems at our school.”
What has been the impact of your being involved with Mouse?
Karila notes that “before I didn’t know the difference between being a boss and being a leader. In Mouse, I learned that everyone has their own story and their own strengths. I’ve learned to be more empathetic and a leader.” Karila strengthened skills not directly tied to technology, such as leadership, writing and speaking skills. Karila highlights Mouse at her school as "a second family," making it “easier to make friends that had the same passion as me.”
What do “Digital Badges” mean to you?
Karila has received digital badges that recognize her accomplishments, including her essays, paintings, sketches, and projects she has designed through Mouse. “Being awarded digital badges has helped me as a student, as they show that others care not only about academics, but also as about me as a person. The fact the colleges care about digital portfolios means that what I am doing outside traditional classroom means something.”
What has been the impact of designing for social good?
As a member of the Mouse Design League program, Karila spent her senior year designing a project for Vernita, an individual with cerebral palsy. “It’s rewarding to be part of something that will make her life a little easier.” Karila plans to take these skills with her onto college, where she plans to study music and education. “I have learned human-centered tech skills, how to code, play with technology, and to design a device to help someone.”
How has Mouse enriched your high school experience?
Karila feels that high school has been the most important time in your life and that being involved in Mouse has a significant impact at this stage in young people’s lives. “As part of Mouse, you try new things and develop confidence. You learn about who you are and the skills you want to develop while you are in high school.”
