Travis Aubery Snider

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“I have always had an affinity for computers, the way they worked and the endless potential they contained.”

  • Program: 2009 College Scholarship Recipient
  • Resides: Arlington, VA
  • Hometown: Arlington, VA
  • Age: 21

Biography

Highlights of Young Scholar Experience:  When Travis first became a Young Scholar he wanted to be a biotechnican. His advisor suggested that he instead investigate a career in computer science. “Ever since then,” Travis said, “I focused my summers and schooling toward computers.” In 2008 he spent two months at the Carnegie Mellon National High School Academy in Pittsburgh where he learned to use different game creation engines.

Profile:  Travis was diagnosed early in his life with severe asthma. It seemed that he spent more time in visiting doctors than he did in the classroom. Academics, athletics and his social life all suffered because of the challenges he faced. Travis said he is thankful his condition improved over the last few years, even though it still caused him to miss classes. But there is a silver lining for this computer whiz from suburban Washington, DC. The illness “made me more determined to do the best I can in things that are important to me. It helped me become comfortable speaking with adults because I often had to go to my teachers for extra help, and I had to deal with doctors, specialists, and nurses to learn how to help treat my conditions.” That hard work and perseverance paid off in the long run. Despite his personal difficulties, Travis maintained a 3.75 GPA and became an Eagle Scout.

Inspiration:  Although computers, math, and technical gadgets are his strength, Travis said that it was his French teacher at Yorktown High School that had the greatest influence on him personally, and as a student. Cecilia Allen “inspired me to get through learning a foreign language, which was very difficult for me.”

Aspiration:  Finding a career where he can use his technical knowledge and computer skills.

Making a Difference:  For his Eagle Scout project, Travis led a group of boy scouts who interviewed 25 veterans of the Armed Services about their wartime experiences. Travis collected and edited the interviews and submitted them to the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress.

Accolades:  Travis was inducted into the National Honor Society and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. In addition, he was presented the Most Improved Student Award at Yorktown High School in 2006, received the Principal’s Award in 2009 and was named Marksman 1st Class as a member of the Yorktown High School Rifle Club.

Interesting fact:  He was an active member of the Yorktown Winter Color Guard and was First Place in the Atlantic Indoor Associations Winter Guard Championships.

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