Student learners at AppJam+ showcase. Image provided courtesy of AppJam+

WATCH: AppJam+

See how one CGI U alum is expanding access to STEM education for middle school students in his community

CGI U
CGI U
Jul 24, 2017 · 2 min read

“I think STEM is definitely one of the most important things that can impact a student’s education… I realized I didn’t have that exposure in middle school… nowadays, technology is something that is making such a positive impact, that STEM education is something we all need to focus on” — Nithin Jilla, Founder, AppJam+

When AppJam+ founder Nithin Jilla (CGI U ’13) noticed a lack of exposure to a STEM education for middle school students in his community, he became inspired. So in 2012, he brought together a group of 14 undergraduates from the University of California, Irvine and about 50 middle school students from two Orange County area schools. Together, they kicked off AppJam+, a program that pairs middle school students with college undergraduate mentors, who teach them how to make STEM education-related mobile applications intended for a K-12 audience. In 2013 Nithin attended CGI U at Washington University in St. Louis, and since then, AppJam+ has reached almost 560 middle school students from 15 schools through a partnership with the Orange County Department of Education. Additionally, the program has grown to include more than 150 undergraduate mentors.You can learn more about AppJam+ here.

You can also watch AppJam+’s Spring 2017 Showcase Finale Video here.

If you know a former CGI U student doing inspiring work, or if you are one yourself, we want to hear from you. Students selected will be featured by CGI U and may have the opportunity to join us at our next CGI U meeting, October 13–15, 2017 at Northeastern University in Boston.


About CGI U

The Clinton Global Initiative University (CGI U), established in 2007 by President Clinton, brings together college students to discuss and address global challenges with practical, innovative solutions by making Commitments to Action. Through its annual meeting and ongoing programmatic support, CGI U supports students in their efforts to create action plans, build relationships, participate in hands-on workshops, and follow up as they complete their projects.

CGI U is proof that young people have the power to make a significant impact by confronting some of the world’s most urgent challenges.

To learn more, visit cgiu.org and follow us on Twitter @CGIU and Facebook at facebook.com/cgiuniversity

CGI U

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CGI U is a growing network of young leaders who are developing innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

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