Sharing Goodwill: Nithin Jilla of Dreams for Schools

On this episode of Sharing Goodwill, Eric Smissen connects with Nithin Jilla, the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Dreams for Schools.

Listen now on Spotify!

Nithin dives into the importance of STEAM and computer science education during students’ K-12 years and how his organization is leveling up education systems across the region. 

As the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Dreams for Schools, Nithin and his organization aim to inspire, create, and educate students to be STEAM and computer science literate. 

Nithin started Dreams for Schools during his undergrad at University of California, Irvine. During his college years, he saw a lack of practical computer science experiences for students and decided to take matters into his own hands. After collaborating with computer science clubs on campus to coordinate technology initiatives and after creating AppJam+, a program that teaches middle school students how to create mobile apps, the development of Dreams for Schools came to fruition. 

Not only does Dreams for Schools educate students with fundamental STEAM and computer science knowledge, but it also aids individuals in their professional development. The organization works with teachers who are interested in computer science and allows them to build their CS knowledge and also trains them to be effective teachers in the field. The nonprofit also creates career growth opportunities for college students by teaching them effective leadership skills to teach and mentor others.

As technology advances everyday, Dreams for Schools is bridging the gaps within STEAM and the K-12 education system and preparing the next generation’s top technology leaders and innovative thinkers by equipping them with essential tools, knowledge, and skills that will aid them in their future endeavors. 

Tune in to this discussion on Spotify now!

To learn more about Dreams for Schools, visit https://www.dreamsforschools.org/.