From Rigby, Idaho, to MIT
Growing up in Rigby, Idaho, Addie Anderson learned early on that big dreams can start in small places. “Being from such a small town, everyone knows each other, and there is a tight sense of community,” Addie shared. “By knowing so many people, I developed a strong support system to help me find opportunities and pave my journey to MIT.”
That journey began in sixth grade when Addie discovered a passion for coding. What started as a single class quickly grew into a broader interest in STEM, leading her to explore robotics, video game design, programming, and other technical fields throughout high school. “I fell in love with the problem-solving and how rewarding it was to finally get the code to run,” she recalled.
As her interests expanded, Addie found herself searching for opportunities beyond what was available locally. Through Idaho Digital Learning Alliance (IDLA), she was able to continue exploring computer science through advanced dual credit coursework, including Computer Science Principles, Introduction to Cybersecurity, and Introduction to Networking. “There were computer science classes within my school, but most were only a trimester long, and after taking all of them, I wanted courses with more depth,” she explained. Those courses opened doors beyond the classroom. Through IDLA, Addie earned college credit, completed coursework that contributed toward an Introduction to Cybersecurity Basic Technical Certificate through the College of Southern Idaho, and explored subjects that aligned with her future goals. “IDLA courses not only helped me academically, but they also allowed me to easily get ahead or catch up when I was behind because I could usually work whenever and wherever I wanted as long as I had internet and a computer to work on,” she explained. The flexibility of online learning helped her balance a full schedule that included robotics, internships, and leadership opportunities while developing the self-discipline and time-management skills needed for college-level work.
One course in particular, dual credit Introduction to Networking, had a lasting impact. The technical skills she gained not only introduced her to a new area of computer science but also proved valuable during an internship at Idaho National Laboratory, where she applied what she learned in a professional setting. “It was one of the most technically difficult courses I’ve taken and helped me grow a ton,” Addie reflected. Outside the classroom, Addie stayed busy pursuing opportunities that challenged her to grow as both a leader and problem-solver. Through VEX Robotics, she learned the value of teamwork and perseverance while designing, building, and programming robots for competition. She also founded a Girls Who Code club, helping create opportunities for other students to explore technology and computer science.
More recently, Addie has become interested in the intersection of artificial intelligence and neuroscience. Inspired by both personal experiences and a desire to help others, she hopes to use machine learning to advance research into neurological disorders and improve treatment options for future patients. Years of hard work culminated in a moment she had envisioned for years: opening her MIT decision letter. “I remember when I first opened the acceptance letter, I kept saying, ‘No shot. There’s no shot I got in,’” Addie recalled. “I knew that the odds were against me.”
As she prepares to move from rural Idaho to Boston, Addie is excited to broaden her horizons, meet people from different backgrounds, and take on new academic challenges. Looking back on her journey, she encourages other students to pursue their interests and trust that hard work can take them farther than they might imagine. “Don’t be afraid to dream big and work hard to achieve your goals,” she encouraged. “Regardless, the hard work and experience will pay off and help you grow.”
