Student to Web Developer – Week 5: Learning the Ropes
This week at U+, our team members, Breyanka Elankeswaran and Eithan Greenman, tackled significant tasks and challenges while developing valuable skills. They also had insightful interactions with colleagues and supervisors, all of which provided a deeper understanding of the professional world. These experiences align with their career goals and have influenced their perspectives on their future paths.
What were the most significant tasks or projects you worked on this week, and how did they contribute to U+'s goals and objectives?
Breyanka Elankeswaran – Web Developer Assistant:
This week, I took on some pretty important tasks for U+. I got busy adding crucial information to our research spreadsheet, making sure everything was organized and up to date. But that’s not all, I also started working on crafting some elevator pitches. And last but not least, I chipped in to fix the YRES annual appreciation page.
It needed some fixes, so I updated all the fonts and images to keep things looking consistent and professional. By doing these tasks, I feel like I’ve contributed to U+’s goals and objectives by keeping things running smoothly and looking good.
Eithan Greenman – Web Developer Assistant:
The pivotal focus of my week revolved around delving into the intricacies of Working – Project 2: Elevator pitches. This undertaking, alongside the meticulous review of my donation campaign, held the mantle of paramount importance. Moreover, I embarked on the inaugural steps of task #3, a venture that promises to be equally significant in its impact. These tasks, carefully curated and diligently undertaken, resonated with a clarity of purpose that made them stand out as the linchpin of my endeavors this week.
Describe a challenge you encountered during your work this week. How did you approach and overcome this challenge, or what steps did you take to seek assistance and learn from it?
Breyanka Elankeswaran – Web Developer Assistant:
A notable challenge I encountered this week was while updating the YRES annual appreciation page. Some of the image formatting issues were quite complex. To overcome this challenge, I first attempted various troubleshooting techniques independently. They just didn’t want to cooperate, and it was a bit frustrating.
But I didn’t let that discourage me from attempting different solutions. I approached it by taking a step back, clearing my mind, and then diving back in to look at the issues from a new perspective. I learnt that research can be one of the most key tools in finding new perspectives that lead to the right solution.
Eithan Greenman – Web Developer Assistant:
In the realm of Project #2, a task of considerable import, my aspiration was to deftly manipulate my video through sophisticated software. Alas, this endeavor was met with an unforeseen impediment; my trusty laptop, though steadfast in many regards, lacked the requisite horsepower for such a feat.
Compounding this was my relative unfamiliarity with the intricacies of the software, further augmenting the challenge at hand. This confluence of circumstances served as a humbling reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of technology and the need for adaptability in its wake
Reflect on the skills you utilized or developed this week. Which skills were the most important for your tasks, and how do you see them benefiting your future career aspirations?
Breyanka Elankeswaran – Web Developer Assistant:
The skills I utilized and developed this week were predominantly related to digital design, data management, and communication. I honed my design skills by ensuring the consistency of fonts and images on the YRES page. Data management skills were vital in updating and organizing information in the research spreadsheet.
Moreover, my interactions with colleagues and the creation of elevator pitches strengthened my communication skills. These skills are essential for my future in computer science, as they contribute to my ability to work effectively in a team, analyze data, and convey complex technical concepts to a wider audience.
Eithan Greenman – Web Developer Assistant:
The big thing for me this week was definitely getting a handle on time management. Juggling my co-op work with my other courses was a bit of a struggle. But as the week went on, I started to find my groove. I’m feeling pretty good about my skills now and I’m confident I can keep things in check moving forward.
What interactions or collaborations with colleagues or supervisors stood out to you this week? How did these interactions enhance your understanding of the workplace and the industry?
Breyanka Elankeswaran – Web Developer Assistant:
The huddles with my supervisor for the web pages stood out as a crucial interaction this week. Collaborating with him to address the challenges on the YRES website was enlightening. It not only helped resolve immediate issues but also enhanced my understanding of the workplace. It showed me the importance of knowledge-sharing and mentorship.
The interaction also reinforced the idea that collaboration is key to success, and it demonstrated the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals.
Eithan Greenman – Web Developer Assistant:
Throughout this week, I made it a point to engage with my coworkers, including valuable conversations with Aadam and Akshitha Garikamukkala. Their assistance proved invaluable, not only in providing me with crucial information but also in lending their support.
Additionally, I actively participated in a Google Meet, affording me insights into the projects my coworkers have been immersed in. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to connect with Carey, discussing forthcoming tasks and ensuring a seamless workflow for the week ahead
Consider any insights or lessons you've gained about U+'s industry or the professional world in general. How do these insights align with your career goals, and do they influence your perspective on your future path?
Breyanka Elankeswaran – Web Developer Assistant:
Throughout the week, I gained valuable insights into U+’s industry and the professional world in general. I observed the significance of maintaining a consistent and professional image, as exemplified in the YRES project. These insights align perfectly with my career goals in computer science, where precision and attention to detail are extremely valued.
Furthermore, the collaborative nature of my interactions underscore the importance of teamwork in both industry and school. These insights motivate me to further explore and engage in collaboration with others, which is increasingly crucial in the dynamic field of computer science.
Eithan Greenman – Web Developer Assistant:
Working at U+ has provided me with invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of the tech industry. I’ve come to appreciate the rapid pace of innovation and the importance of staying adaptable in such an environment. This aligns perfectly with my career goals, as I aspire to be at the forefront of technological advancements.
The exposure here has reinforced my belief in the need for continuous learning and development. It’s shaping my perspective on my future path by emphasizing the significance of being proactive in seeking out new opportunities and staying ahead of industry trends
In summary, the experiences at U+ this week offered valuable lessons and insights. Breyanka’s focus on consistency and communication skills in digital design and data management aligns well with her career goals in computer science. Eithan’s newfound appreciation for adaptability and the rapid pace of the tech industry reinforces his ambition to stay at the forefront of innovation.
These reflections remind us that each week in a professional setting provides opportunities for growth and a clearer vision of one’s career path.