What influenced your decision to choose Software Engineering?
As a kid, the first thing that got me thinking about software was a video game called Plants vs Zombies. That eventually led me to be interested in software development.
Where is your “hometown”?
My hometown is the Cedar Rapids/Marion, Iowa area.
“…go to the help room, because even if there’s no tutors, there still may be some other students who can help.” – Piper Ideker
What are you involved in at the university (or off)?
Right now, the biggest thing I’m in is the State Storm marching band. State Storm focuses on tailgating.
Editor’s Note: ISU Marching Band is made up of two ensembles, one of which is State Storm (MUSIC 114C).
What was your favorite part of student life? And why?
State Storm is also my favorite part of student life because it’s a great way to get a break from class and has been my main source of entertainment.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m taking one step at a time, so right now I’m just focusing on internships, but when I graduate, I will probably still be in the Midwest with (hopefully) a nice paying job.
If you could give an incoming SE Program student advice, what would it be?
If you are taking a COM S class, go to the help room, because even if there’s no tutors, there still maybe some other students who can help.
Could you tell us a little more about your experience at Iowa State? Favorite memories?
Last year, State Storm was part of the ISU Marching Band disco halftime show. While the main band was practicing, our band director had to go somewhere and told us to not mess with the disco pieces. The minute he left we started to create a card tower so tall other band kids started sitting on other kids shoulders to keep building. When our director got back, he wasn’t even mad, he was just dumbfounded by how quickly we were able to build it. I was also in the ISU Marching Band Metallica halftime show and State Storm band members got to be the bats.
What’s one random fun fact about yourself you’d be willing to share?
I have been playing flute since 4th grade. If I am still in Cedar Rapids after I graduate, I want to go back to my community college concert band and play with them. I’m also a huge foodie, and my favorite thing to make is homemade bagels.