2017’s 20 Under 20: William Eiffert, Christian Fellowship School

Age:

17

Parents’ names:

Brad and Kristin Eiffert.

Post-graduation plans:

I’m studying computer science at Purdue University’s main campus starting in the fall.

Dream job:

I want to develop new applications and algorithms for any of the tech giants (Google, Microsoft) and new startups.

Favorite class in high school:

Advanced C++ programming.

Favorite club or extracurricular in high school:

Soccer.

Proudest accomplishment in high school:

I was the programming lead for a programming project that re-created the game “Missile Command” from scratch. It was not the best re-creation ever. It consistently plays with lag and the gameplay is not the best. However, I’m proud of the time and thought I put into the project all the same —it was my first “big” program.

Best advice you’ve ever received:

Communication is imperative. You have to be able to relay ideas and information to other people.

Biggest lesson learned in high school:

Even if you work at a job or in a field that you love — which is computer science for me — there will be times where it’s not all fun and games. Your job will be really hard, and you need to know that those times are coming.

Future goals:

I want to earn a bachelor’s degree, work in computer science, create my own personal applications, hike the Sierra Nevada, and travel the world.

Favorite teacher:

Nathaniel Graham.

Person I admire and why:

I admire my father. He runs a small business and he takes it upon himself to tell me and my brothers about events from his day that show us what real life will be like. He has given me plenty of applicable advice, and because of him, I think I know some of the challenges I will face when I go on with my life.

What you do for fun:

I like to spend time outdoors hiking, running, cycling, and unicycling.