Shout out to student leaders: get to know sophomore computer science major Alyson Collins, president of USI's Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) Club.
Why did you choose USI and the Romain College of Business and what makes them special to you?
I chose USI and the Romain College of Business due to my deep appreciation for the sense of community they offer. This strong sense of community instilled in me the confidence that I would have ample opportunities to engage with my professors and fellow students. As a result, I’ve been granted opportunities that have contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. Establishing these connections and relationships has shown the profound impact they can have on one’s college experience. From the very beginning, I have felt valued and respected, and the unwavering support I’ve received from faculty, peers, and the greater USI community is unparalleled when compared to any other university.
Why did you choose your current major, computer science?
My decision to pursue a computer science major stemmed from my experience taking an introductory programming course during high school. This class ignited my passion for the field. While I’ve always had a strong interest in technology, I previously lacked clarity regarding its potential application in my future career. However, after diving into the fundamentals of programming and blending that knowledge with my appeal in technology, I discovered the realm of computer science. Opting for computer science as my major enables me to be creative, explore innovative problem-solving approaches, and gain a profound understanding of software functionality.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus and why?
My favorite spots on campus are the Jazz Lounge and the study room situated on the second floor of the Business and Engineering Center. The Jazz Lounge appeals to me because it provides an environment for both productivity and social interaction with those who stop by. Additionally, the soothing ambiance
created by the “coffee house” jazz music and the convenience of having Starbucks nearby enhances the experience. Alternatively, when I’m not at the Jazz Lounge, you can often find me in the Business and Engineering Center on the second floor, specifically in the study room near the front of the building. I favor this spot primarily because it has floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the area with natural light, fostering a peaceful atmosphere helpful to focused work.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen? What do you wish someone had told you?
The biggest piece of advice I can offer is to actively participate in campus activities. I can personally attest to the power of involvement, especially for someone like me who didn’t start as the most extroverted individual. Engaging with various campus organizations during my first year played a crucial role in helping me break out of my shell and discover my own voice. Beyond personal growth, active participation on campus also lays the foundation for building valuable personal and professional relationships that can significantly benefit your career trajectory. Through my active involvement, I’ve made life-long friendships and had the privilege of connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.
What made you decide to pursue being president of ACM?
I became president of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) with the aim of expanding and nurturing the computing community. My primary goal is to establish an organization that not only fosters a sense of community but also offers students opportunities to acquire valuable experiences that will prove to be essential in their professional journeys.
Tell us more about ACM and why USI students should get involved with it!
The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is a dynamic organization dedicated to inspiring, educating, and growing the computing community. Our primary objective is to encourage students to continually engage in learning and stay up to date on the latest technological advancements. We aim to achieve this by facilitating the exchange of ideas among students and professionals in the industry. Within our organization, we provide a range of opportunities geared towards professional development and enjoyable/entertaining events. The biggest event ACM hosts is the annual Hackathon, a significant event that enables students to collaborate with industry experts in solving real-world problems while acquiring new skills. We invite you to join us and connect with like-minded individuals, broaden your network, and be part of an enriching computing community experience!
A Fun Fact about you:
A fun fact about me is when I was just 4 years old, I learned to recite the alphabet in reverse, and I can still do it perfectly even today.
Published October 2, 2023