Mike Lyon '11
Major: Computer Science
Residence: Zionsville, Ind.
What are you doing now?
I am a Tier 4 Storage Engineer at Scale Computing in Indianapolis, Ind.
What experiences did you appreciate most in the SJC CS Department?
The ability to understand the fundamentals and theories behind computing, applying those theories in practice with diverse platforms, and exposure to an immense cross-section of languages helped to build and refine my technical acumen.
How did Core integrate with your major?
Being worldly and cultured is more than a passport stamp. Core taught me that. Core underscored the notion that understanding the cultures and diversity on our planet gave me insight into how interconnected we are at a personal level and how that plays into why technology has taken such a strong foothold in our world.
What advice would you give to a prospective student looking to major in CS at SJC?
Do not start with any preconceived notions or expectations about what you think you want to learn because you will learn so much more than you imagined. Technology has grown so much and learning what seem like rather unimportant fundamentals will come back and help you stand out as a graduate. Employers look for people specifically with Computer Science degrees, as CS degrees teach the theory; if you can understand the theory, then the practice is second nature!
How were Professors Coy and Capouch helpful to you?
Dr. Coy was able to take concepts that are fundamental to the theory behind being a successful computer scientist and make those concepts become understandable and meaningful. She highlighted and taught us how to critically think through problems and use techniques to solve problems and complete tasks. Her demeanor worked with me, as an adult student who had experience in the technology field just as well as it worked with my classmates who were future technologists. Beyond that, Dr. Coy was constantly accessible and made herself available to answer questions, and provide guidance.
Prof. Capouch was the energy behind what made learning at SJC fun. He was, and always will be passionate about not just the theory and practicum needed to succeed after graduation, but passionate about his students, on an individual level. His frantic excitement was contagious and made learning truly fun and exciting. His innovation and devotion to the art of computer science ensured a curriculum and class that meant you would be forging a new path, building something tangible and unique, something that may have never been done before. The excitement of developing something organically as a team or class is what makes CS attractive.
