#CodingLabStudents: Isaac Guan Bozhang, HCIC 2024 Platinum Winner
Aside from coding, Isaac loves travelling with his family!
From flipping through a Scratch book at age eight to winning the top prize at the Hwa Chong Infocomm Challenge (HCIC) 2024 - only awarded to the top 1.5% of participants, Isaac’s coding journey has been nothing short of remarkable!
What started as simple experimentation quickly turned into an insatiable passion for programming. Whether he's building games or tinkering with code to understand how things work, Isaac has developed a deep appreciation for coding that extends beyond competition wins. His ability to push himself, experiment, and problem-solve makes him an inspiring young coder to watch. Learn more about Isaac through this interview!
“I love my lessons at Coding Lab. I learned various coding languages from basic to advanced levels at different stages. The curriculum has really helped me to learn to code effectively.”
Congratulations on winning an award at the HCIC! How did you feel about your achievement?
My experience has been meaningful to me. Not only was it my first time going to a competition related to coding, but it was also the first time I ever got the top prize in a competition! I felt proud as it was an indicator of my hard work in learning how to code.
How did you first get started with coding?
At 8 years old, I started with Scratch through a book and tried making different projects. This sparked my interest in coding and made me want to learn more.
Here is Isaac on a holiday trip in Ireland!
What do you enjoy about coding, and how has it impacted your life?
I do not know how to explain it but coding has become something that cannot be excluded from my life. I have a never-ending desire to do it. Coding has helped me better understand how my devices work and has made my life more interesting.
How did you get started at Coding Lab?
I love my lessons at Coding Lab. I learnt various coding languages from basic to advanced levels at different stages. The curriculum has really helped me to learn to code effectively.
What challenges did you face while learning to code, and how did you overcome them?
While learning to code, I sometimes found that I could not understand what the teacher was saying or what I was typing down, except that it worked. When I got home, I opened the code and added extra code. This way, I familiarised myself with the code and used it in other parts. I then slowly understood how it could be used. Of course, everyone has different methods. I prefer to try experimenting myself first but do not be afraid to ask your teacher or others for help as well!
Why do you think learning to code is important?
Learning to code is important as it helps you to appreciate the various things around you - refrigerators, washing machines, etc. There are many things that require code and knowing programming help me spot and figure out how devices work!
Take a look at how Isaac’s Python RPG program works!
Do you have any exciting or dream projects you'd like to mention?
I have made this Python program where you can Choose Your Own Adventure. This is my favourite as it is a game and I really like its role-playing feature.
How do your family and friends react when they find out you know how to code?
When I learn to code, my family usually takes photos of my code to send to my grandparents whom I do not see often, so they can also see the programs I make. As for my friends, they also learn coding so we all recognise the importance of coding.
Aside from coding, what are your hobbies? What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Aside from coding, I am also interested in reading books and playing physical and online games. I mostly read books during my free time.
“I do not know how to explain it, but coding has become something that cannot be excluded from my life. I have a never-ending desire to do it. Coding has helped me better understand how my devices work and has made my life more interesting.”
What are your future aspirations? What do you want to be when you grow up?
I aspire to be a game developer. I love playing computer games, and I want to use my coding knowledge to create amazing ones so that others can also have fun with them like I do.
Do you have any advice for other young people learning to code?
I advise them to take it easy. Don't push yourself if you do not like it. It is also fine to take a break now and then! Coding is best done relaxed and interest plays an important part if you want to learn to create the programs you want.
Isaac’s story is a testament to how passion and perseverance can shape a young coder’s journey. From his first Scratch projects to his award-winning achievements, he has embraced every challenge with enthusiasm. With a dream of becoming a game developer, Isaac is set on using his skills to create fun and engaging experiences for others. His advice to fellow coders? Take it easy, stay curious, and most importantly—enjoy the ride.
Our #CodingLabStudents blogs feature our ambitious students and their ongoing coding journeys – be it the budding coder or advanced Python Pro, we appreciate each and every single one’s efforts as they progress to greater heights. 🌱
Coding Lab offers an award-winning curriculum specially for ages 5 to 18 – check out our courses to begin your own coding journey today!
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