From Online Student to Community Partner: Tristan Lake Builds Website for Kids Against Hunger

As published in pigeon605.com

For Tristan Lake, computers were always more than just machines. They were creative tools.

“I’ve always had an interest in working with computers, and I enjoy design, so computer programming was a good combination of those two interests,” he said.

Today, Lake is channeling that interest into real-world impact as an online computer programming student at Southeast Technical College. Set to graduate this year, the Sioux Falls native is already building the kind of portfolio that turns coursework into career momentum.

Most recently, that meant developing, coding and styling a brand-new website for Kids Against Hunger Sioux Falls, a local nonprofit that brings volunteers together to pack nutritious meals for children and families facing hunger.

A Real Need, A Real Solution 

Lake’s connection to Kids Against Hunger started close to home. His co-worker serves as president of the Sioux Falls branch, and when the previous website went down, Lake was approached to help because he had experience working with websites.

The project quickly became more than a quick fix.

“The project was to build a mainly static replacement site for Kids Against Hunger Sioux Falls, containing a home, about and contact page with links to external sources for donations and scheduling packing events,” Lake explained. “I developed, coded and styled the entire site.”

Starting from the ground up, he created a clean, functional platform that allows volunteers to learn about the mission, connect with organizers and support food-packing efforts both locally and globally. The finished site now serves as a reliable digital hub for the nonprofit’s outreach and events.

Reflecting on the experience, Lake sees it as a turning point.

“It was a really fun and rewarding way to get more experience building larger-scope web projects,” he said. “I really enjoyed having the ability to use my skills I’ve learned at STC and put them to use in the real world, especially for a charitable organization like Kids Against Hunger.”

Learning That Fits Real Life

Lake chose Southeast Tech because its online format made it possible to keep working full time while earning a degree in a field he cares about.

“I chose Southeast because of the online program, which allowed me to work full time and still earn a degree in a field that I’m interested in,” he said. “I like the flexibility of being able to learn and work. With the online program, I feel I can learn in a way that perfectly fits my schedule.”

That flexibility does not mean less rigor. In fact, Lake said one of his biggest surprises has been discovering how complex the field really is.

“One of the most surprising things I learned here is how many different pieces to web development there are,” he said. “I wasn’t aware of all the little moving parts that are involved in making the apps and websites we use every day work.”

Through hands-on coursework, collaborative projects and industry-relevant instruction, computer programming students gain practical skills they can apply immediately. Lake’s work with Kids Against Hunger is a clear example of how classroom knowledge translates directly into professional results.

Community Engagement in Action

At Southeast Tech, community engagement is not an afterthought. It is a core value and a co-curricular outcome built into academic programs. Students are encouraged to apply what they learn in ways that strengthen the communities where they live and work.

Lake’s website project reflects that commitment. Experiences like this reinforce Southeast Tech’s mission to provide education that is practical, career-focused and collaborative. Students are not only preparing for jobs but also are contributing to their communities in meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead

Lake’s short-term goal is straightforward. He plans to graduate and move fully into a web development role at the company where he currently is employed. Long term, he sees continued growth in a field that blends technical precision with creative problem-solving.

Outside of coding, he has a creative streak that complements his programming work.

“On top of web development, I really enjoy graphic design and video production, as well as print media,” he said. “I even get to design the company newsletter where I work.”

For Lake, the path forward is clear. With each project, he is building confidence, experience and a professional foundation grounded in real work.

Additional Media Coverage

• Keloland.com - Southeast Tech student helps nonprofit create website
• KELOLAND News YouTube - Southeast Tech student helps nonprofit create website
• Yahoo! News - Southeast Tech student helps nonprofit create website