My motivation for pursuing a Computer Science degree goes back to my childhood. Like many others, I was always surrounded by technology. Whether I was playing my favorite video games, binge-watching Star Wars movies, or surfing the internet, technology has always piqued my interest for how expansive it is and the limitless opportunities it brings. To this day, I still find myself fascinated by what technology can do. Knowing that this interest will stick with me for many years to come, my goal after high school was to pursue a degree in Computer Science.
As a computer science student, I can safely say that I have made significant progress over the course of several semesters. For example, throughout my major-related courses, I completed various coding assignments ranging in difficulty that have tested my knowledge. Although I initially didn't understand the logic and algorithms needed to solve the problems at hand, it honed several critical skills including problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail to name a few. Now, after becoming more knowledgeable in several coding languages (Java, Python, MySQL), I am able to implement and further improve these skills to solve problems with added complexity.
One fun project that I would like to talk about is a text-based adventure game that my peers and I completed during the spring semester of 2023. This adventure game was based on the online urban legend of The Backrooms and involved a functioning navigation/movement system, inventory system, and combat system. In short, the premise of the game is to navigate through the Backrooms while avoiding/fighting monsters, obtaining items, completing puzzles, and playing a game of Blackjack to end the game. Although completing this project was often tedious, especially the day before it was due, it proved to be a fun and important learning opportunity for my friends and me.
Now, with the skills I have acquired during my time at Cal State LA, I hope to successfully contribute to iFixit with the help of my peers.