- Name:
- Robert McKinney
- Major:
- Software Engineering
- Minor:
- Business Administration
- Year:
- Junior
- Home:
- Rockford, IL
I knew from the moment that I interviewed with Dr. Gill from the CSSE department that I wanted to transfer to UWP and study software engineering. The hands-on experiences that I have received at UWP are invaluable. Not only have I learned how to write code and all of the technical aspects of software engineering, I found that professors as well as many students are always willing to help when questions arise. A few people in particular deserve notice - Dr. Gast and Professor Scanlan, two that always have their doors open to students. Dr. Gast and an upperclassman, Andy Rankin, have set up an online forum for CSSE students that have questions on programming and/or other technical questions. I think the online forum, and many similar things like the forum, show how UWP goes far beyond the traditional education that one would receive any at any other university.
To show my appreciation for all of the opportunities afforded to me at UWP, I get to return the favor by showing potential incoming students the campus and all of the benefits of UWP by way of tour guiding. This is a very exciting job on campus; I am always working with different people and getting the experience of speaking in front of large crowds. Pioneer Previews are especially great because I get to spend most of a Saturday showing the benefits of going to UWP to potential students. While giving a tour, it's hard not to notice the warmth and friendliness here on campus. From the radio people to the coaches, professors and recruitment staff that welcome these students to campus, there is a definite friendly spirit throughout.
I have recently joined the local Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) club here on campus. There are many benefits of the different clubs here on campus. In ACM we particularly like to have fun! You can find your way to an ACM meeting by following the aroma of pizza, which is always accompanied by a bottle of Mountain Dew! There are many events and conferences available to ACM members. This is a great chance to get real world experience by working in teams on long-term projects and presenting these products, not for a grade, but for self-recognition or by simply being published in a reputable publication. The local ACM chapter here at UWP is also a great place to meet new friends and learn about current events in the technology field.
Living on campus I have realized that other people have a lot to give. I have built quite a few friendships over the past year here. From playing intramural softball in the fall to playing table tennis in the winter, there is always someone around to hang out with! The best part about college in general and especially here at UWP, is that there is something new every day! Sure you wake up in the morning and know that you have homework to do and that you have Calculus at 2:00, but you never know who is going to pop their head in your room that night and ask you to go see a movie or simply just to eat dinner. I think that is my favorite part of UWP.