Why did you choose the U of A?
The University of Arkansas was my top choice because of the opportunities it offered me: a beautiful campus to enjoy every day, a well ranked computer engineering degree, and a debt free education.
Why did you choose your major/focus?
My passion for computer engineering developed around the start of high school, when I found I was very good at taking things apart and putting them back together again. Whenever I took something apart, I would look at every piece and try to figure out why it was important. This inquisitive nature grew in me, and when I found a field that was all about what the insides of computer and other electronics did, I jumped on it.
What is your favorite thing about your department?
I would have to say my favorite thing about CSCE has been the support of the staff. Everyone from the professors to the wonderful people in the office have been so supportive of my goals and aspirations. Graduating in three years is not an easy feat, but I could not have done it without their support.
What are your future plans and how did your college experience shape them?
I will be pursuing a Masters of Engineering in Computer Engineering at the University of Tulsa this fall in their Cyber Corps program. They have offered me a full ride scholarship and the ability to have my masters in just a year, so I will have both degrees at 21 years of age. My experience so far has both given me the desire and the opportunity to do so, with the help of Dr. Panda recommending the program to me. My bachelor’s degree has given me the tools I need to move forward, but has not sated my thirst for exploring deeper into my field.
Have you had an outstanding faculty member influence your time here?
All of the faculty here have been supportive of every move I make, but Dr. Van Horn-Morris in the math department has been awesome. He has helped me get into the study abroad program to spend 7 months in Australia, and also written one of my recommendation letters to the University of Tulsa. He was extremely helpful in class and office hours during calculus 2, and continues to be an excellent resource for me moving forward.
Do you have any words of wisdom for your fellow students?
Don’t be complacent. Never be 100% satisfied with your college career. Not to say you can’t enjoy your experience or position, but never lose sight of the next goal. My first goal was to make sure I could graduate in three years. The next, a study abroad trip to Australia. The last, go to graduate school. My next goal is a career.
Tell us something unusual, surprising, or fun about yourself:
One of my favorite activities is to go bicycling with my dad. I don’t get to exercise as often as I would like, and getting out and riding with him is great stress relief. Plus he kicks my butt almost every time we go out. Our last trip was about 32 miles, from Fayetteville to his house north of Rogers.