Major: Software Engineering
Minor: Cyber Security
What influenced your decision to choose Software Engineering?
I was fascinated by computers and the advanced ways I could use them from a young age, especially seeing the projects my dad worked on as an Electrical Engineer. I knew I eventually wanted to work in the technology sector, and after looking at the different majors I could complete, I chose Software Engineering because of the diversity of jobs I could do post-graduation.
Where is your “hometown”? Fun fact about home?
I was raised in Davenport, IA, one of the first incorporated cities in Iowa and right along the Mississippi River.
“I’ve been involved in the Solar Car club throughout my time at ISU, and it’s been a great learning and social experience for me.” – Nick Vazquez
What are you involved in at the university (or off)?
My two biggest accomplishments at ISU have been participating in and holding leadership roles in the PrISUm Solar Car Club and the IT Solution Center on campus.
What was your favorite part of student life? And why?
I like the camaraderie of walking to exams with other classmates, especially when the exams would kick our butts.
Tell us a little about your internship experiences. What role did you play? What did you like most about your role?
I worked a co-op at Cisco Systems in Spring 2022 semester. I was a Network Test Engineer and built, configured, and troubleshot small-scale networks for clients to test changes on. In the summer of 2023, I had an internship at Buildertrend where I helped build a new financial feature in the Buildertrend app in my first full-stack dev job. I learned what it was like to be on a fully-remote team, and loved the feeling of merging a completed ticket after reviews.
What are your dreams for after you graduate?
I’d like to get a job in a web dev or devops position.
If you could give an incoming SE Program student advice, what would it be?
Use your time effectively! Learn to work with your habits instead of fighting them, and do your best to be aware of what’s coming up. Also, I’m a big YouTube viewer. This helped me to find programming channels and watch project videos in my free time to understand applications of what I learned in class.
Could you tell us a little more about your experience at Iowa State? Favorite memories?
I’ve been involved in the Solar Car club throughout my time at ISU, and it’s been a great learning and social experience for me. Find a club that you’re interested in and can teach you something – employers love to see diverse applicants!
What’s one random fun fact about yourself you’d be willing to share?
I have a pet gecko named Jeffery.