Student in 5
Andrew Van Ek
Major/ Minor
Information Technology - Sophomore student
What do you love most about the GVSU College of Computing?
I love how the people are so friendly there. I love how I am able
to partake in computing and enjoy it with other people that share my
similar interests. I also love how I can get help with coding
assignments. I was able to get some help on a tough Python project I
couldn't figure out. The tutor who helped me in the CIS Success Center
was awesome.
What was your favorite project, research, or opportunity
you’ve worked on during your studies?
In my class Hardware and Software (CIS 230), I got to test
different Linux distributions, and evaluate them for a project. This
was a lot of fun, as I love Linux, and I have installed operating
systems multiple times off of bootable USB sticks, so I was somewhat
familiar with the concept of this project as a whole.
What is a problem you would like to solve using tech, even if
it feels impossible now?
I love the concept of driverless cars. I know that these are
technically around, but they're still being developed. Once they're
more common, more safe to drive, and more affordable, I will
definitely seriously consider getting one.
What is an unexpected skill or lesson you have learned in your
studies here at GV?
Work ahead on assignments. In High School, it was so easy to
procrastinate. What college has taught me is just get the assignment
done (be it homework, groupwork, etc). I'd almost argue that "If
you're not ahead (in college), you're behind."
What are your future plans?
I hope to work somewhere where I can use my skills in Information
Technology for good (such as helping other people who need help with
any sorts of various technology issues), whether that's for my job, or
just in general (for instance, grandparents, family members, etc).
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