She’s only 17 years old, but one Orange County student is already a whiz in the male-dominated field of computer science.

  • OCPS senior is winner of national computing award
  • Amaya Jimenez, 17, is a student at Lake Nona High School
  • Teen says it’s frustrating to see lack of women, minorities in her field

And now, she's getting recognized for her work.

The National Center for Women and Information Technology is recognizing Amaya Jimenez for her aspiration in computing.

The Lake Nona High School senior is the first OCPS student ever to be a national winner.

“The whole point of this award is to make sure we bring diversity to computer science," she said.

“I was so elated for her because she’s truly deserving of it," said Jasara Hines, Jimenez's computer science teacher, who encouraged her to apply. “To see that growth, it’s just amazing.”

A few years ago, while searching for high school courses, Jimenez found her calling.

“I was flipping through the catalogue and it said computer science one. I said, 'Hey, I like computers, like I like science,'" she said. “There’s a certain type of person that takes computer science in a college level course in high school, and I’m come to understand that I really like those types of people.”

Though, the teen said it’s frustrating to see a lack of women and minorities in her field.

“I feel like there’s been this understanding that women can’t do computer science, that it’s this complex thing we can’t understand or sometimes just the field itself can be rough for women," she said. "I feel like it shouldn’t be something that keeps us from pursuing it.”

“Women and minorities are underrepresented in STEM as a whole," said Hines.

Jimenez wants to change that. As she eyes her college decision and acceptance of the prestigious award, she's gaining inspiration from women in STEM, like her teacher.

“I kind of want to return the favor and be that person for someone else," Jimenez said. “No matter what profession, people should feel like it’s something they’re able to do. That goes for women and minorities.”

“There’s no holding her back, she has so much perseverance," said Hines.