Software Engineering Week

September 25, 2013

- You are a student in the Software Engineering Department.  Why did you choose AUCA, and why did you enroll as a SFW major?

I heard many good things about AUCA from my older sister and when I graduated from my high school, it seemed to be the only choice I could do. AUCA gives lots of opportunities to develop both professionally and socially, and the second part is as important to me as the first.

As for SFW, I had no choice, because it was the only program at AUCA that related to science and technology. However, I do not regret it. Software development is a very important thing nowadays, because people use technologies more and more, and any technology needs proper software to work.

Moreover, now, after two years at SFW department, I realized that I have a strong aptitude for computer science that is why I think that I really can make a difference in this field. I decided that studying software engineering now will result into fruitful career in the future, because you inevitably succeed if you do what you love.

 Tell us a little about your department. What new things did you learn there?

Most likely, everyone says that, but SFW department is the best. Our professors are very knowledgeable and caring at the same time. I feel that they are really keen on helping us to find our places in the sphere of software engineering. I’ve learned a lot here: from understanding how computer works and creating simple applications to better teamwork.

- Which sphere of software engineering would you like to specialize in? Why?

When I had gotten my first Android-based smartphone, I decided that I wanted to specialize in Mobile Computing for Android OS. I really liked how elegant that operating system was, and I was fascinated by the company that produced it, Google. Studying at SWF department however changed my mind, because I found out more about information technologies and now I can say that I’d like to work either within the field of Information Security or Cloud Computing. And I definitely want to work at Google, since their goal – to change the world – is pretty much aligned with mine.

-Your GPA is quite good. Is it hard to keep it up? How do you handle will all your studies?

Actually, it’s not that hard. It’s all about dedication, efficient time management and work-life balance.

-Tell us about your favorite class in the department. What is interesting about it?

Ask me about that when I will graduate. Now it’s very difficult to say, since I have quite a few interesting courses to look forward to. For example, now I’ve signed up to Mobile Application Development and Database Principles – both courses promise to be interesting and useful. It’s not only about their content, but also about the challenging method of teaching: there will be no midterms, final exams or any other assignments, only one large project that we are free to choose ourselves. No limitations but our own imagination and skills. This is very close to the real working environment of a software developer which creates an incredibly steep learning curve.

-Have you already passed your internship? Where? Did you like it?

Well, this summer I did an internship at Centerra Gold Inc/Kumtor Operating Company. That was an interesting experience, since I worked with the development ITIL processes (Service Catalogue, Request for Service) for IT Department. This is not exactly what I’m specializing in, but this broadened my perspective quite a lot. I met many cool specialists who luckily happened to be great people there. They taught me a lot and now I can proudly say that my summer didn’t go in vain.

-- What good advice would you give to students who want to study in the SFW Department?

Get in, listen carefully to the lectures, and better do not skip them. But also don’t rely on assignments only – be curious and make software development a part of your life, not just studies. Only then you will succeed.

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