12 answers
Savannah
Student
Columbus, Mississippi
1
Question
Asked
450 views
What’s your career ?
I am in the 8th grade, I go to Caledonia Middle School I live in Columbus Mississippi. My favorite color is purple and I would like to be a lawyer or web developer.
12 answers
Celeste Dyrbye-Wright
back-end software development
10
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Celeste’s Answer
Hello :)
I'm a systems developer at IBM (i work on their operating system). I started learning code when I was very young. Honestly, what helped me out the most was FIRST Robotics. They are a global organization full of robotics teams at different levels. FRC (first robotics competition) is for highschoolers. You get six weeks to build and code a robot (like up to 120 pounds we are not talking a small robot here) based on some said requirements to compete in 3 on 3 matches at competitions. It greatly prepared me for working with others while greatly expanding my knowledge of computer science -- for the best way to learn is hands on. They also have other levels for younger students: there's an FTC (First tech challenge), which is simpler and for 7th-12th graders. Lego League is ages 4-16ish and exactly like it sounds: Lego robotics. Unfortunately I never participated in FTC or Lego Robotics so I don't know a lot about them, but if FRC robotics is available to you I would highly recommend it. (if it's in a different school district, sometimes you can get waivers to participate when not offered in your district. I had lots of teammates on my ski team from the surrounding community because my city was the only one offering a ski team in the area. I hope it would be similar for FRC, which technically can qualify as a sport given that you can letter in it)
Secondly, I know this is going to sound incredibly nerdy, but Academic summer camps are amazing! Caveat: they can be expensive, and sometimes scholarships aren't enough, but if you have the resources I would recommend looking into summer camps offered at college campuses. When I was 15, I took a class on deep learning at UW-Madison's program WCATY. It was an incredible experience. You live in the dorms for usually 2-3 weeks, and basically get to be a fake college kid taking one class. It's a great way to take a class that isn't usually offered in middle schools or high schools. And it's a great way to practice independence, and get an idea of what college feels like, which can help with the college transition when that rolls around.
I'm a systems developer at IBM (i work on their operating system). I started learning code when I was very young. Honestly, what helped me out the most was FIRST Robotics. They are a global organization full of robotics teams at different levels. FRC (first robotics competition) is for highschoolers. You get six weeks to build and code a robot (like up to 120 pounds we are not talking a small robot here) based on some said requirements to compete in 3 on 3 matches at competitions. It greatly prepared me for working with others while greatly expanding my knowledge of computer science -- for the best way to learn is hands on. They also have other levels for younger students: there's an FTC (First tech challenge), which is simpler and for 7th-12th graders. Lego League is ages 4-16ish and exactly like it sounds: Lego robotics. Unfortunately I never participated in FTC or Lego Robotics so I don't know a lot about them, but if FRC robotics is available to you I would highly recommend it. (if it's in a different school district, sometimes you can get waivers to participate when not offered in your district. I had lots of teammates on my ski team from the surrounding community because my city was the only one offering a ski team in the area. I hope it would be similar for FRC, which technically can qualify as a sport given that you can letter in it)
Secondly, I know this is going to sound incredibly nerdy, but Academic summer camps are amazing! Caveat: they can be expensive, and sometimes scholarships aren't enough, but if you have the resources I would recommend looking into summer camps offered at college campuses. When I was 15, I took a class on deep learning at UW-Madison's program WCATY. It was an incredible experience. You live in the dorms for usually 2-3 weeks, and basically get to be a fake college kid taking one class. It's a great way to take a class that isn't usually offered in middle schools or high schools. And it's a great way to practice independence, and get an idea of what college feels like, which can help with the college transition when that rolls around.
Claire Martin
Senior University Recruiter
7
Answers
Hillsboro, Oregon
Updated
Claire’s Answer
Hi Savannah! Those are great career aspirations! When I was younger, I also wanted to be a lawyer. My main reason was I wanted to be in a field where I can help people, and I was already interested in politics, social impact, compliance, communication, all the things that go into law. Through college, I ended up working in Human Resources and by the time I was set to graduate, I had to make a choice between law school and continuing my job in HR. At this time, I received the best piece of advice, and that was to take the opportunities that come to you, and a full time job post graduation seemed like a better opportunity than going straight into law school (my thought was law school would always be there if I wanted to attend at a later time). Now I'm 7+ years post grad, been working in HR the entire time, and don't regret it one bit. I love that my job allows me to do all the things I sought out when I wanted to be a lawyer, and goes to show that opportunities can lead to amazing outcomes.
Tasha Frazier
Software Sales
11
Answers
Aurora, Colorado
Updated
Tasha’s Answer
Hello, Savannah! When I was younger, I was quite the chatterbox and had a knack for debating, which led many to suggest a career in law for me. Several of my friends pursued law and while some remain in the profession, others have branched out to diverse fields such as nonprofit leadership.
In high school, I was unsure about my future career path. However, I had an exceptional chemistry teacher and a talent for math, which led me to explore engineering. I learned that an engineering degree could open doors to various fields including law and medicine. So, I chose to major in chemical engineering with an initial plan of becoming a professor.
IBM recruited me out of graduate school and now I have been here for 23(!) years. My career journey has been great, even though it was something I never could have predicted. At every crossroad in my younger years, I chose the path that offered the most opportunities. For instance, I opted for chemical engineering over pre-law.
I urge you to keep an open mind and concentrate on honing your critical thinking skills. Mastering the art of learning is key because once you've accomplished that, you can learn absolutely anything!
Best wishes as you navigate through the sea of opportunities that await you.
In high school, I was unsure about my future career path. However, I had an exceptional chemistry teacher and a talent for math, which led me to explore engineering. I learned that an engineering degree could open doors to various fields including law and medicine. So, I chose to major in chemical engineering with an initial plan of becoming a professor.
IBM recruited me out of graduate school and now I have been here for 23(!) years. My career journey has been great, even though it was something I never could have predicted. At every crossroad in my younger years, I chose the path that offered the most opportunities. For instance, I opted for chemical engineering over pre-law.
I urge you to keep an open mind and concentrate on honing your critical thinking skills. Mastering the art of learning is key because once you've accomplished that, you can learn absolutely anything!
Best wishes as you navigate through the sea of opportunities that await you.
Cassie Mullins
Technical Artist
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Cassie’s Answer
Hi Savannah, I am a technical artist!
Technical artists are basically the bridge between artists and software developers in computer graphics, animation, or game development. We combine artistic creativity with more technical skills, helping to build tools for artists! What this looks like in particular can vary pretty wildly but for me, I work in game development at EA. Instead of actually writing code for the game itself I'm instead writing code that helps create art. Let's say an artist needs to make a bunch of trees to go in the game, rather than them manually modeling every trunk and branch and leaf one by one I would make some sort of tool that gives them options to control the overall look of the tree and then generates it for them.
I think it's a really neat field and if you're at all interested in computer graphics I definitely recommend checking out https://processing.org/. It's a learning tool that we used in school when I was first learning to code; it comes with a bunch of examples too. And I know someone's already mentioned it but https://scratch.mit.edu/ is also a great tool if you're trying to get into programming and want to try it out with some fun projects. And then if you are at all interested in the more artistic side, particularly in 3d graphics I recommend checking out either Houdini or Blender. Houdini is what I use day-to-day and has a free version but I think Blender is the classic that everyone starts off with because it's totally free and has a million youtube tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0J27sf9N1Y&list=PLjEaoINr3zgEPv5y--4MKpciLaoQYZB1Z&ab_channel=BlenderGuru. And if you're like me and aren't particularly good at drawing or anything like that, don't worry, these are completely different skills.
There are SO many different directions to go in when it comes to the tech world. It's awesome that you're already looking at it because I definitely didn't until I was already in college. Good luck on your exploration!
Technical artists are basically the bridge between artists and software developers in computer graphics, animation, or game development. We combine artistic creativity with more technical skills, helping to build tools for artists! What this looks like in particular can vary pretty wildly but for me, I work in game development at EA. Instead of actually writing code for the game itself I'm instead writing code that helps create art. Let's say an artist needs to make a bunch of trees to go in the game, rather than them manually modeling every trunk and branch and leaf one by one I would make some sort of tool that gives them options to control the overall look of the tree and then generates it for them.
I think it's a really neat field and if you're at all interested in computer graphics I definitely recommend checking out https://processing.org/. It's a learning tool that we used in school when I was first learning to code; it comes with a bunch of examples too. And I know someone's already mentioned it but https://scratch.mit.edu/ is also a great tool if you're trying to get into programming and want to try it out with some fun projects. And then if you are at all interested in the more artistic side, particularly in 3d graphics I recommend checking out either Houdini or Blender. Houdini is what I use day-to-day and has a free version but I think Blender is the classic that everyone starts off with because it's totally free and has a million youtube tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0J27sf9N1Y&list=PLjEaoINr3zgEPv5y--4MKpciLaoQYZB1Z&ab_channel=BlenderGuru. And if you're like me and aren't particularly good at drawing or anything like that, don't worry, these are completely different skills.
There are SO many different directions to go in when it comes to the tech world. It's awesome that you're already looking at it because I definitely didn't until I was already in college. Good luck on your exploration!
Farhana Mustafa
Software Engineer
6
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Farhana’s Answer
Hi Savannah! Great career choices you're thinking about! I highly recommend checking out Scratch. It'll teach you how to think like a web developer!
https://scratch.mit.edu/explore/projects/games/
https://scratch.mit.edu/explore/projects/games/
Kodi Shiflett
Software Engineer
25
Answers
Hayward, California
Updated
Kodi’s Answer
Hi Savannah, my favorite color is also purple and I am a software engineer, but I wasn't always. I used to be a teacher for 10 years. During my teaching I taught for 2 years here in the States and then I taught and lived overseas in China and Japan for the rest of my teaching career. Sometimes the career you start out as isn't always the career you will always be in and thats ok. Being interested in law and web development are great, explore them both as much as you can and as you get older you may find one that you like more than the other or you may find a new interest. I don't know much about law but if you'd like some web development websites that help you learn I would try freecodecamp.org and theodinproject.com. They both can teach you a lot and help you get started.
Abhishek Singh
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Thane, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
Hello Savannah,
I'm Abhishek Singh, hailing from the vibrant country of India. I have a fondness for the color black and I'm employed as a Software Engineer at a renowned multinational corporation. My job involves crafting code and developing web applications, which I find quite fulfilling.
Now, onto your career choices. If you possess a sharp memory and have a knack for effective communication, I wholeheartedly encourage you to consider a career in law. On the other hand, if you find joy in unraveling logical puzzles and have the perseverance to learn something new every day, software development could be a great fit for you.
Regardless of the path you choose, I want to extend my best wishes to you. May your future be filled with success and satisfaction in all your endeavors.
I'm Abhishek Singh, hailing from the vibrant country of India. I have a fondness for the color black and I'm employed as a Software Engineer at a renowned multinational corporation. My job involves crafting code and developing web applications, which I find quite fulfilling.
Now, onto your career choices. If you possess a sharp memory and have a knack for effective communication, I wholeheartedly encourage you to consider a career in law. On the other hand, if you find joy in unraveling logical puzzles and have the perseverance to learn something new every day, software development could be a great fit for you.
Regardless of the path you choose, I want to extend my best wishes to you. May your future be filled with success and satisfaction in all your endeavors.
Uma Manorama
Technical Executive
8
Answers
Princeton, New Jersey
Updated
Uma’s Answer
Hello Savannah,
Both web development and law are fantastic career paths. They both demand a continuous learning mindset since technology evolves quickly, and lawyers need to be well-versed in various industries to effectively serve their clients (unless you're leaning towards corporate law).
Law is a respected profession that gives you the chance to stand up for justice and make a real difference. On the other hand, web development might be less personal, but it offers you a platform to unleash your creativity while earning a decent income.
While it might be somewhat simpler to get your foot in the door with web design compared to law, both careers can be equally rewarding and offer a good livelihood.
I highly recommend taking some introductory web design classes and offering to volunteer at a few law firms during your summer break. This will give you a taste of both worlds and help you make an informed decision when it's time to choose your career path. Best of luck!
Both web development and law are fantastic career paths. They both demand a continuous learning mindset since technology evolves quickly, and lawyers need to be well-versed in various industries to effectively serve their clients (unless you're leaning towards corporate law).
Law is a respected profession that gives you the chance to stand up for justice and make a real difference. On the other hand, web development might be less personal, but it offers you a platform to unleash your creativity while earning a decent income.
While it might be somewhat simpler to get your foot in the door with web design compared to law, both careers can be equally rewarding and offer a good livelihood.
I highly recommend taking some introductory web design classes and offering to volunteer at a few law firms during your summer break. This will give you a taste of both worlds and help you make an informed decision when it's time to choose your career path. Best of luck!
Leena Sampemane
Software Design
2
Answers
Foster City, California
Updated
Leena’s Answer
Savannah, both options sound thrilling and could lead to a rewarding journey, depending on your interests!
In my own experience, I found joy in both the precision of math and science, as well as the creativity of art. At first, I thought about channeling my artistic passion into a career in applied or commercial art. However, when I discovered the world of Computer Science and Programming, I was completely captivated.
What truly fascinated me wasn't just the technology itself, but the potential it held to tackle real world issues! It challenged me to comprehend the broader customer problem and then devise the most effective solution to resolve it. This aspect of problem-solving is what truly makes technology an exciting field to delve into!
Have you checked out https://scratch.mit.edu/. or code.org - check it out to see what appeals to you!
In my own experience, I found joy in both the precision of math and science, as well as the creativity of art. At first, I thought about channeling my artistic passion into a career in applied or commercial art. However, when I discovered the world of Computer Science and Programming, I was completely captivated.
What truly fascinated me wasn't just the technology itself, but the potential it held to tackle real world issues! It challenged me to comprehend the broader customer problem and then devise the most effective solution to resolve it. This aspect of problem-solving is what truly makes technology an exciting field to delve into!
Leena recommends the following next steps:
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hey Savannah, you won't believe this, but my favorite color is also purple! It's such a vibrant and exciting color, isn't it? Now, about your career choices, why not consider both? I've seen plenty of professionals, like doctors or teachers, who also do web development either part-time or full-time. It's amazing that you're thinking about these things in 8th grade. You're definitely ahead of the game, even compared to some high schoolers!
Now, let me tell you a bit about my journey. My mom, a remarkable woman of strength and wisdom, was my main inspiration. She sparked my love for learning and always reminded me to aim high, stay humble, and handle challenges gracefully.
After graduating early, I landed a job at one of the world's top accounting firms. But I felt a need for something more meaningful, which led me to an unexpected decision. One day, I just walked out of my office and straight into an Army Recruiting office. By that evening, I was on a bus to Fort Benning, Georgia.
The military experience shaped me in many ways, teaching me skills that went beyond my career. After my service, I was drawn back to education and ended up interning at an oil company. There, I solved a simple but persistent problem with printing payroll checks, which opened up new opportunities for me.
However, despite my hard work and success, I noticed that others were getting promoted while I was being overlooked. When I asked my boss about it, he simply said, "We didn't think you wanted it." That moment lit a fire in me, and I decided to use my voice not just for myself, but for those who weren't being heard.
Since that day in 2004, I've been on a mission to support underrepresented minorities. I've made it my goal to amplify their voices, mentor them, and help remove any obstacles to their recognition.
My journey isn't just about me, it's a call to action. I encourage people of color to speak up about their worth, share their unique value, and seek support from others. Every day, I strive to learn something new, advocate for those without a voice, and empower people at all stages of life.
I believe that knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. I'm all for collective success and encourage everyone to aim for greatness. After all, when we come together and lift each other up, we have the power to change the world.
Now, let me tell you a bit about my journey. My mom, a remarkable woman of strength and wisdom, was my main inspiration. She sparked my love for learning and always reminded me to aim high, stay humble, and handle challenges gracefully.
After graduating early, I landed a job at one of the world's top accounting firms. But I felt a need for something more meaningful, which led me to an unexpected decision. One day, I just walked out of my office and straight into an Army Recruiting office. By that evening, I was on a bus to Fort Benning, Georgia.
The military experience shaped me in many ways, teaching me skills that went beyond my career. After my service, I was drawn back to education and ended up interning at an oil company. There, I solved a simple but persistent problem with printing payroll checks, which opened up new opportunities for me.
However, despite my hard work and success, I noticed that others were getting promoted while I was being overlooked. When I asked my boss about it, he simply said, "We didn't think you wanted it." That moment lit a fire in me, and I decided to use my voice not just for myself, but for those who weren't being heard.
Since that day in 2004, I've been on a mission to support underrepresented minorities. I've made it my goal to amplify their voices, mentor them, and help remove any obstacles to their recognition.
My journey isn't just about me, it's a call to action. I encourage people of color to speak up about their worth, share their unique value, and seek support from others. Every day, I strive to learn something new, advocate for those without a voice, and empower people at all stages of life.
I believe that knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. I'm all for collective success and encourage everyone to aim for greatness. After all, when we come together and lift each other up, we have the power to change the world.
Michael Rose
Senior Director, Presales Architects
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Congratulations on your two career paths! I'd also suggest looking into technical presales (solution engineering) as it is a great path for people who are technically inclined & also like connecting with others (or arguing with them).
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3774
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Savannah,
I became a dietitian nutritionist, but my journey to this career was quite unexpected. Back in 1970, I was on the path to becoming an astronomer, equipped with basic telescopes that unveiled the beauty of the moon, stars, and planets. However, a tragic incident in my family shifted my focus.
At school in the physics class in grade eleven and 1972, I was exposed to computer programming in the Fortran language. In those days you programmed a computer with cards and an HB soft pencil so I've had 52 years of programming experience. What I do now is write nutrition education software.
During my final year of school, my uncle suffered a fatal heart attack. Despite the doctors' best efforts, they couldn't save him - his five coronary arteries were clogged with cholesterol.
This uncle had been a colleague working with a biochemistry professor at the University of Queensland. Coincidentally, this professor, a PhD holder, later taught biochemistry at my university, Griffith. I decided to study under him, driven by my desire to understand what had caused my uncle's premature death.
By the time I ventured into dietetics, my father had also passed away from a similar cardiovascular condition, familial hypercholesterolemia. I owe much of my knowledge to Professor Colin J. Masters, who enlightened me on the mechanisms of these deadly diseases.
I am also deeply grateful to Professor Connor Riley, a Bowden nutrition professor who provided invaluable information on the dietary causes of hypercholesterolemia - the condition that was claiming the lives of my loved ones.
After my father's death from a heart attack at the age of 50, I was determined to uncover the mysteries of these cardiovascular incidents and heart attacks. Although my newfound knowledge came too late to help my deceased relatives, it has enabled me to assist thousands of patients over the years.
I have had the privilege of working in three Australian state health departments - NSW, QLD, and WA - and I am profoundly thankful for the education I received, which has allowed me to make a difference in so many lives.
Stay blessed,
James Constantine.
I became a dietitian nutritionist, but my journey to this career was quite unexpected. Back in 1970, I was on the path to becoming an astronomer, equipped with basic telescopes that unveiled the beauty of the moon, stars, and planets. However, a tragic incident in my family shifted my focus.
At school in the physics class in grade eleven and 1972, I was exposed to computer programming in the Fortran language. In those days you programmed a computer with cards and an HB soft pencil so I've had 52 years of programming experience. What I do now is write nutrition education software.
During my final year of school, my uncle suffered a fatal heart attack. Despite the doctors' best efforts, they couldn't save him - his five coronary arteries were clogged with cholesterol.
This uncle had been a colleague working with a biochemistry professor at the University of Queensland. Coincidentally, this professor, a PhD holder, later taught biochemistry at my university, Griffith. I decided to study under him, driven by my desire to understand what had caused my uncle's premature death.
By the time I ventured into dietetics, my father had also passed away from a similar cardiovascular condition, familial hypercholesterolemia. I owe much of my knowledge to Professor Colin J. Masters, who enlightened me on the mechanisms of these deadly diseases.
I am also deeply grateful to Professor Connor Riley, a Bowden nutrition professor who provided invaluable information on the dietary causes of hypercholesterolemia - the condition that was claiming the lives of my loved ones.
After my father's death from a heart attack at the age of 50, I was determined to uncover the mysteries of these cardiovascular incidents and heart attacks. Although my newfound knowledge came too late to help my deceased relatives, it has enabled me to assist thousands of patients over the years.
I have had the privilege of working in three Australian state health departments - NSW, QLD, and WA - and I am profoundly thankful for the education I received, which has allowed me to make a difference in so many lives.
Stay blessed,
James Constantine.
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