Not the first and not the last. Like many others, I found Computer Science as a means to transition into Tech and ideally a more fullfilling career. Technology and specifically software is being embedded into almost every aspect of our lives. Its growth and integration has opened up the opportunities for people like myself. The applications are almost endless.
The choice to make this change wasn’t entirely planned. My first degree was also a STEM degree. Going through school, with the intention of working with innovative technologies. Designing cool new systems and products to further our progress as a species. Once graduating, the real world didn’t reflect the grandiose ideas that I had as an undergraduate student. Where my first month on the job, was literally working on a desk and chair made out of boxes. Working on a laptop that couldn’t even run the lightest version of AutoCAD. How was I supposed to be an engineer and make any meaningful change without the essential tools?
Fast forward, five years. After traveling to five countries, getting married, relocating to another part of the county, and working fifty to sixty hour work weeks regularly; I reflected on my current state. I wasn’t working at a job or position that I was remotely interested in. I was entirely unfulfilled and mentally unstimulated with the work I was doing. Change and progress was resisted. The experiences of the prior years, helped me identified my true passions. I love to travel, explore cultures (especially through food and wine), spend quality time with loved ones, and as much time outdoors as possible. Professionally I love to create things, make tangible change in the lives of others, and be challenged mentally. Combining my personal and professional passions, I identified Computer Science and the program at Oregon State University.
My aspirations are to leverage software’s capability of endless applications and potential for good to creating positive change in the world. As my chapter at OSU is coming to an end, I’m looking more forward to my future than ever before.
