Our Stories

Rohit Rajakumar
I was first introduced to LEGO when I was three years old, and I have enjoyed them ever since. Building things with my imagination using those tiny building blocks provided me with hours of entertainment and endless fun. When I was in 2nd grade, I was introduced to programming through LEGO in FIRST Lego League Explore (Jr FLL). Seeing my LEGO creations come to life with code excited me, and I started learning programming languages like Java, Python, and C++.
As I learned, I realized that programming was not as daunting as it initially seemed, especially when I approached it in a fun and enjoyable manner. I discovered my passion for coding through LEGO and FIRST, and it has only grown stronger over time. Unfortunately, not every child has access to the resources necessary to explore coding through LEGO. This is why I want to create Code2Explore, so that students in my community are able to discover the joys of coding, just like I did.

Anurag Perakalapudi
Joining an FLL team in elementary school was a turning point that significantly increased my interest in STEM and coding. Through hands-on experience in coding and robotics, I developed a strong foundation in the field, while the teamwork and problem-solving aspects of the program honed my soft skills. The challenges, mentorship, and exposure to professionals inspired me to envision a future in technology, and the confidence gained from competitions nurtured a growth mindset. Overall, FLL sparked a passion for STEM that continues to shape my academic pursuits and career aspirations.