#TechTeen – Ivan Martinez

Ivan Martinez is a 17-year-old high school student from Miami, Florida. He attends Terra Environmental Research Institute, a magnet schools focused on global conservation, STEM and biomedical research. Ivan is an avid video game player and has even developed his own mobile version of a popular game.

You can follow him on Twitter @ThatKawaiiGuy

How did you first become involved with coding and technology?

After a few months in AP Computer Science A, I began to get the feel for programming and realized I wanted to spend my life pursuing programming as my future.

Have you created any apps? Tell us about them!

Yes I have! I’ve created an app called Melee Handbook for Android. I was really enjoying the game (and still am) so while I learned Android development I decided to make a tiny version of it to mess with my friends, but then it ended up working really well.

I learned Java from school and learned how to develop apps by myself off of YouTube.

What did you think about tech and coding before you began?

Before I thought it was extremely difficult to develop efficient programs and design them properly. But it’s not as hard as I thought!

What programming languages are you familiar with? 

I’ve learned Java and XMl to develop my app. I would like to learn C for Linux kernel development and Swift for iOS development.

What is it that you enjoy about programming?

I love the challenge it provides and the way that it always give me a goal to set myself to. I can never be dissatisfied with adding more features. Programming is truly the only activity I can lose myself in and completely enjoy. I love it.

Are there any resources that helped you develop your skills? If so, what are they?

My APCSA teacher, Mr. Rico. And TheNewBoston on YouTube helped me out too.

Why do you think students should learn to code?

It gives you a whole new way to analyze and solve problems, and gives you a completely new mindset.  

What advice do you have for other beginners, especially high school students?

It may seem difficult or boring at first, but keep on trying. You’ll get the hang of it eventually. Stay determined.

Considering your experience thus far, do you see yourself building a career in the tech field?

Yes, of course. I would love to work for Google, or at my own start-up.

What else would you like to say to high school students who are potentially interested in learning to code?

Stay determined and write down everything you think of! Don’t let great ideas be forgotten before they are created.