Major:
Information Communication Technology
Year Graduated:
2016
Hometown:
Florence, Ky
Current City:
Lexington, Ky
Current Employer:
University of Kentucky HealthCare
Top played song on your playlist?:
Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce
Where has your CI degree taken you?:
My degree has given me some great opportunities, and some great experiences throughout my collegiate career. The ICT program has some of the most technologically advanced courses that are found in no other degree program, such as Networking Technologies or Security Analytics. It is because of these classes that I was able to get the job I have now – and the motivation to move on to the Master’s program to pursue a career as a Security Analyst.
What is your favorite thing about your job?:
My favorite thing about the career I am in now is being at the forefront of technology. UK Healthcare IT has some of the most advanced technology available – whether it’s the latest in desktop computing, or even medical technologies such as MRIs or patient assistance systems. Technology is always advancing; sometimes it even changes from week to week, and being able to be at the head of the pack is extremely exciting.
What¹s the most valuable thing you learned in CI?:
I think that the most valuable thing that I learned from ICT is how perspective can change as technology advances. There are many laws and policies that are left obsolete or needed amending as new technologies emerged. This just goes to show how important technology has become – and the scope of its influence on our daily lives.
What advice would you give to current CI students?:
When I was growing up, I always had an affinity for computers. At a very early age I had made up my mind that I was going to go to college for Computer Science – and that’s what I did. I started at the University of Kentucky as a Computer Science major. After fully experiencing what Computer Science had to offer, I realized that programming was not for me, which put me into an awkward spot – do I continue to do something I don’t enjoy? Fortunately, the ICT major was created. It had all the courses involving the technology that I loved, as well as courses in areas that I was interested in, such as networking, technology security, and privacy. So, my advice to current students is as such: don’t be afraid to change your mind. When you get to college, you may think you have it all figured out – only to realize that you were completely wrong. It’s better to find something that you’re passionate about, rather than squeeze yourself into a mold that doesn’t fit.