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Harlem Business Alliance Offers Free Coding Class for Adults

By Gustavo Solis | February 19, 2015 2:12pm
 The Harlem Business Alliance is hosting a free coding class for Harlem residents between 18 and 24 years old. 
The Harlem Business Alliance is hosting a free coding class for Harlem residents between 18 and 24 years old. 
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DNAinfo/Gustavo Solis

HARLEM — You don’t have to be a tech wiz to learn how to code at free classes being offered this spring at the Harlem Business Alliance.

The group is accepting applications for computer coding courses designed for young adults without a college education.

Harlem residents between 18 and 24 years old can apply. Prior computer experience or a high school diploma are not required, said Christina Celuzza, the program director.

“We just want people who are interested in technology and pretty much anybody who is willing to learn a new skill,” she said.

The program, located at 275 Malcolm X Blvd., will teach a mix of coding and entrepreneurship skills. Students will be broken down into teams that work like their own startups. They will learn how to develop a website and mobile app, Celuzza added. 

Students will also learn professional development skills like how to interview for a job or beef up a resume. The goal is to get students excited about pursuing their passions, she said.

“If the students come in and they don’t have a GED we would like to get them interested in pursuing more education after the program,” she said.

The program is specifically designed for young adults who are not in college. Although there are other coding programs in Harlem, most of them are for younger children who are still in school.

There aren’t too many opportunities for students who dropped out of high school or didn’t pursue higher education, Celuzza added.

The Harlem Business Alliance will tap into their network of professionals in the tech industry to serve as mentors for the students. There will also be field trips to local tech companies to expose the students to careers in the industry, Celuzza said.

Applications for the program are due Friday. All applicants will be invited to do group interviews in March, according to the website. 

Students selected for the program will meet three times a week for 15 weeks.