Q and A with Mel ^_^

• Why did you choose CSC104?

I have been interested in coding and programming for a long time. In my first year (back in 1998!) I would spend all my free time learning HTML in the New College Library. We didn't have an updated computer at home, and I was using a 486DX!! It didn't occur to me that I could actually major in computer science because I did not complete any of my OAC mathematics.

Flash-forward to many years later, and I decided to give my long abandoned degree at UofT another shot. I thought CSC104H1 would be a good way to determine if I was capable of handling any future computer science courses in the faculty. It would also give me a chance to get settled into being a student, and subsequently take Grade 12 Calculus via distance learning in order to prepare me for future Computer Science courses. I am currently enrolled in CSC108H1 in the Winter Term.


• What interests you about computing?

I am a massive fan of mobile technology. I spend many hours learning about the latest SoC's, GPU's, and how they integrate together in forming what is essentially, a highly portable micro computer. I am equally a fan of iOS and Android. I usually use them both simultaneously, though iOS tends to be my preferred daily driver. I have also used WP and Symbian, and while the latter is no longer being used, I must say Windows Phone has come a long way in terms of app development. I would like to find a way to turn my passion for mobile tech into a career.


• What are your goals in CSC104?

My goals in CSC104 are to become comfortable with a new programming language, and switch my thinking patterns to logic-based thinking, which is difficult as my previous background, was East Asian Studies and Cinema Studies. Additionally, my working background was office administration, including specialties in insurance administration (Underwriting, and Claims), though in my last job, I did some light IT work for a small independent business specializing in office telephony. I did some light in-house computer networking, created and managed their online presence including revamping their website, and creating social network profiles on various sites, and was sent to a workshop to learn how to remotely set up and manage VoIP lines through one of their partners.

Regardless how I do in in CSC104, I intend to take CSC108 in the Winter Term. I am just hoping that by then, the content of CSC104, will help me understand recursions, Java and Python.


• Has your conception of programming changed since before you started the course? In what way(s)?

My conception of programming has not changed since I started. I always viewed it as learning another language (which is very hard as an adult). I also view programming as requiring some type of logical thinking, which as a creative thinker, can be very hard for me to adapt to. The one thing I was not prepared for, was how much of this course requires manual writing. As a visual learner, I am extremely comfortable programming in Dr. Racket, but when I've handwritten solutions for the quiz and term test, I've made a lot of errors. I do recognize the value in handwriting our solutions, as we are expected to how functions work, without relying on Dr Racket to do it for us.