As a kid growing up in Harlem, New York, Kevin Dowdy ’20 saw how powerful technology could be, as it opened up a world of limitless possibilities for him. Now, he wants to offer the same empowering experience for young people living in underserved communities. “Computer programming and software development piqued my interest because of all the things you can create from scratch,” says Dowdy, who is earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Information Security. “By learning how to code, there’s no limit to what you can build, from apps to robots. There’s no limit to what your future can look like. My goal is to ensure underserved kids tap into their potential, rise above what is expected of them, and surpass those expectations in a completely positive way.”

Choosing John Jay
Acknowledging the College’s history of promoting social mobility, Dowdy saw John Jay as a path to stronger career networks. “I wanted an education that would open doors of opportunity for me,” says Dowdy. At John Jay, he found himself becoming more passionate about a career in technology, taking several computer sciences courses where he collaborated with peers, flexed his creative muscles, and learned from his mistakes. Dowdy also found an incredibly supportive community in John Jay’s APPLE Corps program. “They pushed me to focus on what I want out of life. Being in APPLE Corps helped me grow as a person and a student,” says Dowdy. “Here was this community that would hold me accountable for my actions, challenge me to do better, and was there when I needed help.”

Expanding his Skills
Outside of John Jay, Dowdy explored the different facets of the tech world by getting hands-on experience as a tutor, fellow, and integral team member in the professional world. With CUNY Tutor Corps, he helped middle school and high school students gain a greater understanding and appreciation of computer science. As a fellow in the CUNY Tech Prep program, he learned in-demand technologies, developed professional skills, and networked with industry leaders. And, earlier this academic year, he began working for KIPP NYC, as part of its technology team, where he was vital to getting the new KIPP NYC regional office together. Each opportunity and organization gave Dowdy new insight into working with underserved communities and students. “They were all committed to giving students who live in some of the City’s toughest communities, and often its most forgotten neighborhoods, the academic and interpersonal skills to succeed in college and in life,” he says.

Being a Role Model
Inspired by his experiences, Dowdy is making it his personal mission to start a program that connects professional software developers with young people going to school and living in underserved communities. “As the saying goes, you can’t be what you can’t see. That’s why it’s so important for those who have succeeded to reach out and support those coming up after them,” says Dowdy, who plans to teach coding to kids while also pursuing his professional goal of becoming a leading software developer in New York City. “By working in the underserved neighborhoods and sharing technological insight, you’re empowering a future generation. And, that’s what life should be all about.”