CS 216: Everything Data
I selected CS 216: Everything Data as my gateway elective because of its focus on acquiring, analyzing, and visualizing data—skills that are essential for innovation in technology-driven ventures. This course provided me with hands-on experience working with diverse data types, enabling me to derive actionable insights and make data-driven decisions. My key takeaway was learning how to think creatively, exploring data from different perspectives to uncover patterns and trends, and using computational tools to solve real-world problems.
I&E 352: Strategies for Innovation and Entreprenurship
One of the most valuable lessons I learned in I&E 352 is the importance of focusing on solving problems rather than fixating on solutions. I learned to approach innovation through the lens of addressing customer needs and refining solutions based on feedback. Practical experiences like the food truck challenge demonstrated that while market research provides initial direction, real-world testing and customer feedback are critical for validating and improving ideas. I also learned the importance of building effective, committed teams and fostering a positive, adaptable culture, as exemplified by case studies of ventures like Upswing and Envirofit. These insights have reshaped how I think about entrepreneurship and will guide me in building ventures that solve meaningful problems, prioritize team dynamics, and create positive, lasting impacts.
LIT 320S: Social Movements and Social Media
I selected LIT 320S: Social Movements and Social Media as my elective course because it examines the intersection of technology, media, and social change, aligning with my goal of leveraging technology to create meaningful impact. This course broadened my perspective by exploring how various technologies, from social media to radios and film, have been used historically as tools for social movements and transformation. A key takeaway was understanding the dual nature of technology— it can empower social movements by amplifying voices and mobilizing action, but it also requires ethical considerations to prevent misuse.
Connections
These courses provided a cohesive foundation for understanding how to leverage technology to drive impactful change. CS 216 honed my technical skills by teaching me to creatively analyze and visualize data, uncovering insights essential for innovative, data-driven solutions. I&E 352 complemented this by shifting my focus toward solving customer problems, emphasizing the importance of testing solutions with real-world feedback and fostering effective teams and adaptable cultures. LIT 320S added a broader societal perspective, demonstrating how technologies, including social media, can drive social movements while highlighting the ethical responsibilities that come with innovation. Together, these courses reinforced my certificate goals by equipping me with technical expertise, entrepreneurial strategies, and a nuanced understanding of technology's role in addressing societal challenges.