Spanaway Lake HS at Amazon Game Studios

 

Tuesday, May 14, 2019 | Spanaway Lake High School at Amazon Game Studios | by Chris W.

On May 14, Spanaway Lake High School took 30 female students to Amazon Game Studios (AGS) for a field trip! This trip had a waiting list-- for good reason. When the girls arrived, they were greeted by AGS lead volunteer Cristy Gonzalez. With the help of Sarah Regalado, Andrea Benavides, and Alexandria Condon, the girls were led through a set of exercises where they created their own game, tested, revised, and then presented their game idea to the whole group.

All of the students loved learning how to innovate a game, and their presentations were both professional and humorous. After a short break, the students were introduced to a Panel of professional women in STEM at AGS who held a range of responsibilities. While the students enjoyed lunch, the speakers answered questions and inspired the students to believe in themselves, work hard, persevere and follow their passions.

We are so grateful that these amazing women took time out of their busy schedules to inspire and encourage our students! Thank you to Amazon Game Studios for providing this awesome opportunity. 

 

After attending this event:

74%

of girls/non-binary students are more interested in STEM

78%

of girls/non-binary students want to study harder to attend college and further their education

87%

of girls/non-binary students want to continue attending IGNITE events

Here's what the students enjoyed most:

"I liked how they encouraged us to take opportunities even if you're not comfortable."

- 9th grade

 

"I enjoyed listening to their backgrounds and tips. It was resourceful as well as helpful."

- 9th grade

 

"Highlight from today was getting to know how they got to where they were, it inspired me because they love what they do and are very hard-working and passionate."

- 9th grade

 

"I enjoyed the activity where we changed an aspect of a card game, and inspired me to try innovating other things."

- 10th grade

 

"The part where we got to modify an existing game and test it to see how our modification changes the game."

- 12th grade

 

"I liked making the game and it inspired more creativity."

- 9th grade

 

 

"The speakers seemed very real, not fake or forced. This inspired me because it helped plant ideas and interests in me. It encouraged me to think about STEM-related careers."

- 9th grade

 

"The one that inspired me the most is that the speakers explained to us how they do their jobs."

- 9th grade

 

"I enjoyed talking to women in the industry."

- 11th grade