What influenced your decision to choose Software Engineering?
I would like to say my love for making video games, But during my visit at Iowa state I got to speak with academic advisors in SE and they explained the flexibility and hands on experience vs computer science and that’s what really sold me.
Where is your “hometown”? Fun fact about home?
Waukee, Iowa. I think we have the largest IMAX in the world by half a inch.
“I like the ability to be working on things that are going to help the world.” – Elmin Didic
What are you involved in at the university (or off)?
SE Student Council, Gaming and Esports Club (Competing in Valorant and Apex), Video Game Dev Club and intramural sports
What was your favorite part of student life? And why?
Having the ability to be involved in so much. Being apart of the student council allows me to improve the program and meet industry leaders.
Who has had the biggest impact on you and why?
My 6th grade typing teacher. He saw my interest in programming and introduced to me CodeDay a game jam program for middle schoolers and high schoolers.
Tell us a little about your internship experiences. What role did you play? What did you like most about your role?
I have had multiple. Currently, I am working at John Deere helping work on the self driving tractor. I am treated like any other developer given stories based on interest. I like the ability to be working on things that are going to help the world.
What are your plans after graduation?
Work remote and travel.
If you could give an incoming SE Program student advice, what would it be?
Don’t stop coding, always be working on a side project, following YouTube tutorials or leetcode.
Could you tell us a little more about your experience at Iowa State? Favorite memories?
Storming the field after beating Oklahoma State University would have to be my favorite memory.
What’s one random fun fact about yourself you’d be willing to share?
I was born in Jamaica Queens in NYC.