On Monday, April 15, Jones computer science (CS) students reported to the south auditorium to celebrate their peer recipients of the Amazon Future Engineer scholarship.

“Jones has been a part of Amazon Future Engineer which is a computer science program that we run across the US from early childhood to high school,” said Head of Community Affairs for Amazon in Chicago, Sarah Glavin. 

The program exists to enhance computer access in primary educational environments.

“We know that a lot of schools and districts have limited access to programs and limited teacher capabilities,” said Glavin. “If we can provide access to free curriculum and other experiential learning opportunities, then we know we can hook more students to be interested in the field.”

Scholarship recipient, Amalia Katarina Cortez ‘24 is involved in CS courses at Jones to build upon her passion stemming from childhood.

“Growing up, technology has really been a part of my life and I think I’ve always been interested in not only seeing it visually but how it works behind the scenes,” said Cortez. 

The Amazon Scholarship recognized applicants with ambitious goals of applying CS to real-world issues. 

“We’re really looking for students who have many of the leadership principles we value at Amazon. It’s about continually innovating, learning, and being curious and open to big ideas,” said Glavin.

Cortez envisions herself in this rapidly evolving field, making her an optimal candidate for the award. 

“Being a part of technology in the near future sounds really exciting to me, especially with it developing alongside society,” said Cortez.

As a nationwide competition, it is an outstanding accomplishment for Jones students to be awarded this innovative scholarship. 

“There are 400 winners across the US and that includes 10 thousand dollars a year for your academic path and a guaranteed internship with Amazon web services,” said Glavin. “[Jones] had a very broad group of students who put themselves forward and that’s what we want. We want students to put themselves into the process and really see if they can go after it.”

Offering financial contributions to students’ post-secondary education and promising hands-on experiences supports tech majors as they deliberate future careers.

“This partnership shows students that they have a place in this space. A lot of CPS students don’t necessarily know that, nobody’s telling them. But Amazon is. They’re coming in and saying, ‘We want you and we want to support you’,” said the Director of Computer Science at CPS, Kris Beck.

Amazon’s nationwide commitment promotes inclusivity within the field as an increasing number of students gain early exposure.

“The tech world hasn’t always been open to a diverse group of students. This really helps change that narrative,” said Beck.

Galvin has high hopes for what these youthful minds have to bring to the table.

“I’m really excited to see years from now where students who have come through CS programs at Jones,” said Galvin.

Cortez anticipates an enriching experience with Amazon Future Engineers after graduation.

“It’s a new opportunity and I’m excited to put myself out there,” said Cortez. “Seeing my friends and teachers look so proud, it’s amazing. It makes me look forward to the future.”