Code:BLACK Strengthens Community and Career Readiness in Computer Science

Inside the University of Maryland’s Department of Computer Science, Code:BLACK has become a central hub for students seeking both community and career guidance in the fast-evolving field of technology. Established in 2017, the student organization, which now boasts 280 active members and more than 980 alumni, focuses on creating meaningful connections through mentorship, technical workshops and networking opportunities designed to prepare students for professional success.

Mentorship and Development

At the heart of Code:BLACK’s efforts this year are two initiatives: a mentorship program connecting underclassmen with upperclassmen, and a professional development series that guides members through resume-building, interview preparation and collaborative projects.

Co-president Peter Njoroge (B.S. ’27, computer science) said the mentorship program aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional readiness. 

“Underclassmen are paired with mentors who can help them navigate the department, adjust to campus life, and prepare for internships and future jobs,” he explained. The goal, he added, is not just to provide support but to help students “thrive in both academic and professional environments.”

The mentorship program has quickly become one of Code:BLACK’s defining features. Mentees receive advice from upperclassmen who have already navigated the coursework, internship process and career fairs. The approach encourages collaboration across academic levels while reinforcing a culture of shared learning.

Alongside mentorship, the professional development series introduces students to key aspects of technical and career preparation. The workshops cover topics such as resume reviews, networking skills and technical interview practice. Participants also work in small teams to complete semester-long software engineering projects, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as Git and Visual Studio Code.

“These projects give students something tangible to discuss with recruiters and demonstrate teamwork, communication and technical ability,” Njoroge said. “It’s about building confidence while gaining experience.”

Industry Partnership and Exposure

As the organization expands, so does its network of corporate partners. Code:BLACK has hosted sessions with companies such as Bloomberg, Google, Accenture, EY and CapTech, with AWS expected to visit this semester. These partnerships give students the opportunity to engage directly with professionals, gain insight into hiring processe, and participate in mock technical interviews.

Co-president Prince Aguguo (B.S. ’26, computer science), said these collaborations help members connect what they learn in class to real-world applications. 

“We’ve been intentional about bringing in companies that can provide real technical feedback and guidance,” he said. “It helps students see what’s expected in the workplace and how to prepare for it.”

Leadership and Collaboration

Managing an organization of this size requires clear communication and shared responsibility. Code:BLACK’s executive board includes 16 members overseeing all operations. For Njoroge, effective leadership depends on coordination and mutual accountability.

“Being president means you have to understand every part of the organization, from design and social media to sponsorship and logistics,” he said. “Delegation and teamwork are essential. If something becomes overwhelming, it’s about communicating that and redistributing the work so everything stays on track.”

Aguguo said his approach to leadership developed through experience and mentorship during his internship at IBM. 

“I learned that leadership isn’t about control, it’s about understanding people,” he said. “You need empathy and direction. The goal is to help everyone succeed, not to act like a boss.”

That collaborative mindset extends beyond the leadership team. Code:BLACK emphasizes inclusion and community across its membership, creating spaces where students can connect outside of academics.

“We’re a professional development organization, but we also focus on building relationships,” Aguguo said. “Students need a place to learn and grow, but also to relax and feel connected. That balance makes the experience meaningful.”

A Departmental Ecosystem

Both co-presidents credit the Department of Computer Science with shaping their work ethic and resilience. Aguguo recalled that his early years in the program were a challenge, but those experiences motivated him to persevere.

“The coursework was difficult, and at first, I struggled,” he said. “But the process taught me how to stay disciplined and keep improving. Once you get through that, you realize you can handle almost anything.”

That understanding, he added, helps inform Code:BLACK’s culture of mentorship, one that values perseverance, adaptability and encouragement. 

“We try to make sure no one feels like they’re going through the program alone,” he said.

Looking Ahead

This year, Code:BLACK plans to host several major events that combine professional development with community engagement. One of the largest is Black Fest, an annual gathering that brings together students, alumni and corporate sponsors for a day of networking and social activities. Last year’s event featured field games and community-building exercises that drew more than 80 participants.

The organization is also developing an AI Hackathon for the spring semester, which will invite students to build short projects using artificial intelligence tools. The hackathon is designed to foster collaboration and creativity while giving participants an opportunity to apply technical skills outside the classroom.

As Code:BLACK continues to evolve, its mission remains rooted in preparation and connection. For both Njoroge and Aguguo, that sense of continuity defines the organization’s long-term value. 

“The future of Code:BLACK lies with the students we’re mentoring right now,” Njoroge said. “They’re the next generation of leaders, and our job is to give them the tools, confidence, and experience to succeed.”

—Story by Samuel Malede Zewdu, CS Communications