It can be hard to find true magic amidst the daily routines and chores of life. The Hidden Genius Project, a nationwide initiative from the California Bay Area, is changing that, though. But don't just take our word for it—keep reading to discover exactly what makes this program so special. Plus, watch the video below for a heartwarming recap of the Hidden Genius Project's collaboration with Vagaro (more on that in a bit!).
What is the Hidden Genius Project?
The Hidden Genius Project, based in Oakland and founded in 2012, is a heartfelt initiative dedicated to bridging the gap between the higher unemployment rates of Black male youth and the plethora of career opportunities found within the tech industry! Through their comprehensive training programs, students receive invaluable education & experience in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills. It’s more than that, though. The organization goes far beyond just teaching computer science and software development; it provides continuous support and mentorship to kids who might need it most.
Andrew Pope, UCLA alum and college advisor with the Hidden Genius Project, shared about his experience with the program, and what it means to be a part of such a truly life-changing project. Check out Andrew’s thoughts, below!
Question: Why did you decide to work for the Hidden Genius Project post-grad? Was there a specific turning point or moment in your life that led to this decision?
Answer: I was accepted into UC Berkeley’s DCAC/EAOP College Adviser Fellowship and was given the opportunity to be placed at The Hidden Genius Project. My entire family was involved in college access in some form, and I really saw the need for more college access professionals that look like the students they serve.” – Andrew Pope
By focusing on unlocking each individual's potential, The Hidden Genius Project empowers these young men to pursue successful careers in technology and leadership, and ultimately become transformative figures within their communities. By the end of a student’s time with the Hidden Genius Project, they’ll have completed their own tech-related project from conceptualization to delivery, whether it be a new app, video game, or even online store!
The Geniuses Time at Vagaro: Industry Panel, Tours, Interviews, & More!
Here’s where things get even more awesome… About 50 students & six leaders from the Hidden Genius Program visited the Vagaro HQ in Pleasanton, CA, to get a behind-the-scenes look at operations, plus a chance to connect with a panel of real professionals in the fields they’re interested in! Said panel was comprised of some of Vagaro’s best, with the panelists including Alec Sukoski, Vagaro’s Senior Director of Product Design, Nancy Nguyen, Vagaro Product Designer, Sam Hutcher, Vagaro Software Engineer, and Anthony Helou, Vagaro Senior Software Engineer. The panel served as a wonderful opportunity for students to ask for specific tips on the projects their working on, future career advice, and questions about the industry!
The collab was coordinated, led, and passionately brought to life by one of Vagaro’s Technical Trainers, Destinee Vargas, who saw an exciting opportunity within the community and acted on it. Here’s what she had to say about the Hidden Genius Project’s time at Vagaro, and why she supports the initiative:
Question: What are you hoping students with the Hidden Genius Project might take away from their visit with Vagaro?
Answer: I hope they learn that there isn't one specific route in tech. We have a diverse set of people at Vagaro that went to college for a completely different career path and found their passion (outside of their degree) within tech. There are also people who didn't go the traditional college route, worked hard, networked, built-up their portfolio and found their way to high-paying positions here as well.
So, no matter where the Geniuses go, whether they continue on with software engineering or computer science, there are different jobs in tech that they will find their passion in. All it takes is drive and perseverance to end up where you want to be. – Destinee Vargas
It was absolutely incredible getting to connect with everybody from the Hidden Genius Project, we wish you all the best of luck and support. Definitely be sure to visit the Hidden Genius Project website to learn more about their mission and show your support!
If you’re looking for a software that’s got your business’s back every step of the way, consider a complimentary 30-day trial of Vagaro and see what you can accomplish!