College Experiences That Helped A Product Engineer At Graphistry Succeed
Alex's undergraduate experience prioritized following intrinsic interests, including neuroscience, classics, and computer science, though they regret not taking more statistics classes; this foundational knowledge in math and physics, along with the importance of seeking out good professors and engaging with their insights, proved invaluable for a career in product engineering, even if some courses seem less directly applicable at first glance.
Fundamentals of Computer Science, Mathematical Foundations, Interdisciplinary Exploration, Mentorship and Networking, Intrinsic Motivation and Perseverance
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alex Warren
Product Engineer
Graphistry
University of Arizona 2015
None
Computer Science
Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. Follow your intrinsic interests, even if it means taking classes outside your major. Alex's diverse coursework in neuroscience, classics, and computer science provided a broad foundation for their career.
2. Focus on fundamental concepts. While tactical skills are important, a strong grasp of fundamentals in math, statistics, and computer science (like distributed systems) will serve you well throughout your career.
3. Seek out and engage with professors. Building relationships with professors can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can significantly impact your career trajectory.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
Yeah, it was actually easier in undergrad to follow my intrinsic interests. I've also found that sometimes I can be stubborn or get into disagreements with people I work with.
At the time, I was annoyed that I couldn't take whatever classes I wanted. I felt I didn't need a structure and should just be allowed to enroll in any course. I did take some classes in neuroscience and neurogenetics, which were interesting. I also took classes in different departments, including classics.
Recently, I've found that I like product and design. I wish I had known or seen if I could have taken something more focused on aesthetics, like color, layout, and composition. The concepts from computer science, like distributed systems, locks, and concurrency, were very useful.
I didn't take operating systems, which I wish I knew more about. I regret not taking a couple more statistics classes. There was a job I wanted right after college where probability math was required, and I hadn't learned it.
Now, I'm interested in statistical mechanics. Math, physics, and Bayesian concepts, the fundamentals of machine learning, are very useful and apply to areas like cryptography.
School provides a good opportunity to learn fundamentals. If you go into industry, there's always a tactical task to do, making it feel like extra effort to go back and fill in fundamental knowledge. I still want to learn more statistics.
I don't feel like I'm off track with the things I care about, though I have felt self-judgment about wishing I knew certain things. Finding good professors is also important. I wish I had gone and talked to my professors more. They have gone on their own journeys and have great insights to share.