In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s prevalent novel, The Great Gatsby, the narrator’s father gives his son the sage advice to never judge someone because “all the people in this world haven’t had the advantages that you’ve had.” The opportunities in my life have been primarily thanks to athletics and the Perry Central STEM program. Computers and engineering will be present in the impending and forthcoming future. Technology has always been a keen interest in my life—specifically, hardware and the physical design of systems. In my freshman year of high school, I designed, managed, and performed maintenance for dozens of systems. Companies like Lynch Surveying and Engineering, Deer Creek Baptist Church, and Perry Central Schools are included in this list. Not only that, but I have considerable experience with computer-aided design and 3D printing technologies. During freshman year, I was promoted to design a slushie machine dispenser for a local winery. As time passed, we communicated back and forth about bettering the product. I have redesigned, adapted, and nearly perfected this slushie dispenser. This prompted me to get my 3D printer for my own endeavors at home.In my senior year, I developed these skills even further with more hands-on experience. I am grateful to have a computer engineering internship at Thermwood. My projects there have enhanced my professional skills and relationships. Another project I am working on is an ‘Innovation Lab’ for the University of Evansville. This mobile lab will function out of a van and drive to local schools to showcase a 3D printer, laser cutter, and solar technologies to young students. Our engineering team is designing the inside of the van and assisting in the fabrication process. I am fortunate to be a part of a team that will have such an incredible impact on my community. As I prepare for a career in computer science, I know my experience gained in engineering will allow me to aid local youth, helping to build sustainable computer science programs in small communities.Atop my yearning for success in the technology world, combining the field with engineering is something I strive to do. Earning a prestigious degree in computer hardware and electronics engineering would be ideal. In this day and age, jobs in these fields are far and sparse.
