Zane Storlie has not only dedicated his time at Wichita State to learning everything he can about computer science, but he’s also been an advocate for computer science education for elementary and middle school students in the area. Zane created a three-unit curriculum to teach Scratch coding to more than 750 students in Wichita Public Schools, and the Derby school district asked him to present a teacher training course to its librarians.  

Being a first-generation student has come with its share of struggles for Zane, but he’s found support through mentors and resources from TRIO and the Upward Bound Math Science Center. 

Zane is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2020 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

What is your degree in?

I'm completing a degree in computer science with a minor in management

What led you to Wichita State to begin with?

I interacted with Wichita State extensively during high school due to my involvement in the TRIO program’s Upward Bound Math Science Center. This led naturally into attending WSU myself.

How are you feeling leading up to graduation?

I've been mostly preoccupied thinking about what comes next. There has certainly been some anxiety and stress making my preparations for my future.

What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at Wichita State?

The most important part of my learning has actually been my activities outside of the classrooms. I've been all over the local community and learned from so many people, though it has definitely been a trial by fire at many points.

What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?

School and life are exhausting. I've been fighting so many battles on so many fronts all throughout my college experience. Just moving into the next day can be such a daunting task. Thankfully, I've been lucky enough to build some important relationships with a variety of people that I have frequently gone to for advice and encouragement.

What has been your most helpful learning experience at Wichita State?

My time as a student in Upward Bound Math Science was most important on both an academic and cultural level.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to pursue a master's degree in computer science. Beyond that, I am not sure quite yet.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your time at Wichita State or your post-graduation plans?

The pandemic definitely compounded my already serious financial stress and health concerns. It has made me very wary moving forward beyond graduation. I've got some challenges ahead of me.

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

There are a number of excellent people at WSU who want to see you succeed. Seek them out. So long as you put forth your best, they'll give you advice, opportunities, encouragement, further connections, and more.