Frequently asked questions about GWC Marquette

 

What grades are eligible for 2023-24?

The Fall 2023 & Spring 2024 program is intended for 6th - 9th grade students.

We accept and teach students in 6th - 9th grade who shares our goal of reaching gender parity in the computing fields.

When and how do I register?

Online registration is now closed. Please email here to be added to a waitlist or be alerted for future offerings.

Where are classes held?

Classes are held on Marquette University's campus. Specific class locations change year to year depending on class sizes. Enrolled students will be contacted with specific course locations.

How often are classes held?

Fall 2023 schedule:

Every Tuesday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m
September 19 - December 5

Spring 2024 schedule:

Every Tuesday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m
January 23 - April 23*
*No class will be offered on March 19

During registration, students can select to sign up just for Fall or for Fall and Spring.

Please note: this program must follow university closures, such as severe weather closures. In the event that Marquette closes for any reason (most commonly severe weather), the program will not meet.

Can my student miss classes?

Because of the nature of learning computer programming, we encourage students to attend at least 80% of classes. If students must miss, they can contact their instructor to receive that week’s work.

Do you only accept girls?

No. We accept and teach any student in 6th - 9th grade who shares our goal of reaching gender parity in the computing fields.

Do I need to provide my own computer?

No, students do not need to provide a computer. All participants will work in a Marquette University computer lab with access to reliable internet.

How much does this cost?  

The program is free to all participants!

The Opus College of Engineering at Marquette University sponsors the club. Registration includes instruction, space, and materials.

To offset food and supply costs, small donations are appreciated but not required. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Steve Celichowski in the Opus College of Engineering.

What skills should students have to enter the program? Does my child need experience?

For the 2023-24 program, our only expectation is a good attitude and willingness to learn. No technical or math skills are required to register.

Who are the instructors?

The instructors are current college students studying engineering or computer science. The instructors pass a technical skills assessment and background check, both provided by the national Girls Who Code organization. Guest speakers or volunteers occasionally join the class.

What do the students learn?  

For our 2023-24 program, students will learn the fundamentals of computer science using the Python programming language.

Do you provide food for the students?

We provide a light dinner. We suggest that students bring a water bottle or something to drink.

Do you provide transportation?  

We do not transport students to or from Marquette University.

What types of guest speakers does the program host?

We invite college professors at Marquette, industry professionals and other campus leaders to speak at GWC. With our guest speakers, we introduce students to the practical applications of programming and inspiring role models. 

What happens with severe weather or other campus closures?

Our program must follow university closures. A common example is severe weather. Marquette staff will plan to contact parents and students ASAP about these types of closures.