When I first stepped into the world of computer science, it felt like magic. Typing out a few lines of code and watching them turn into an app, a game, or a real solution to a problem—that feeling of creating something from nothing was just incredible. But lately, it seems like something’s shifting. More and more students are turning away from computer science and choosing other paths. That’s surprising, especially when you consider how deeply technology touches every part of our lives and how many doors this field can open.
Part of the issue comes down to perception. A lot of teens imagine computer science as dry, overly technical, too mathematical, or something that only “certain kinds of people” are good at. They don’t always see the creativity in it. Others are intimidated—they worry about struggling with code, bugs, strange syntax. And let’s face it, not every student gets a great first experience. Sometimes their introduction to the subject feels cold, frustrating, or way too hard. That’s a big loss, not just for the students themselves but for the world at large—because we’re missing out on potential innovators, creators, and thinkers.
So what can we actually do about it? First off—start earlier. Kids who get to experience programming in a playful, hands-on way at a young age often build confidence and curiosity that stays with them. It doesn’t have to be complex code from day one. We can teach logic, problem-solving, even algorithmic thinking through games, stories, and challenges that make them feel smart and capable. And good teachers? They make a huge difference. When a teacher is passionate and knows how to connect the subject to the real world, it shows. Enthusiasm is contagious.
Beyond that, we’ve got to break the stereotypes. Computer science isn’t just about tech companies. It touches art, music, healthcare, environmental science, social justice—you name it. It’s a language, and anyone who learns it can use it to make an impact anywhere. We need to show students real stories of real people—not just geniuses—who’ve made a difference through tech. Stories that inspire and prove this path is open to everyone, not just a select few.
I’m writing this not just because I’m concerned about the decline in computer science enrollment, but because I genuinely love this field. It changed my life. It gave me tools to understand the world and build within it. Not everyone needs to become a software engineer, but everyone deserves to know how the systems shaping their future work. This isn’t just a school subject—it’s a mindset, and one that can empower people in ways we haven’t even imagined yet.
