Zach's STEM Adventure: Building a Computer

Hi, I'm Zach and I am a self-directed student. Do you know what that means?  It means I am in charge of my own education, and I can do projects that are meaningful to me.  Until now, I've mostly played with friends, acted, studied ju-jitsu and the drums, read a lot of books, and learned a lot about American History (thank you, Hamilton!). 

I have always had a dream of building my own computer. I know that buying a computer is really expensive and that building one can give me better results for less money.  I know that I'm going to learn a lot in the process and I hope to help other kids who want to build their own computers.

My family is helping me get organized. I did a lot of research and made a budget that includes all the items I need to buy:

monitor, $150.00
motherboard, $100.00
keyboard, $25.00
mousepad, $15.00 (I already have a mouse)
cpu, $200.00
computer case, $75.00
graphics card, $325.00
software, $200.00
RAM, $125.00
chair, $80.00
 
This all adds up to $1,295, though I'm hoping it will be much less. I'm looking for deals online and also checking Buy Nothing for free supplies.

My parents are contributing the first $250, so I still have just over $1,000 to raise on my own. Did I also mention I'm learning how to fundraise? (Thanks, mom!). If I raise more than I need or spend less, I'll donate any leftover money to my school, Philly Agile Learning Community.  I know they can use the money for art supplies and other things my friends need for their projects.

Thank you for considering a donation. I promise to send pictures and updates during my build.

Love,

Zach
:-)