Career Conversations Panel Series:
Discovering Careers in Computer Science and Information Technology
Monday, October 3, 2011
2:30–4:30pm
Harry Crowe Room (Room 109 Atkinson College)
In partnership with the Centre for Student Success, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies.
Sponsored by York University Alumni Relations.
About the Event
Interested in a career in Computer Science or Information Technology? Want to meet York Alumni and other professionals working in the field?
Connect with professionals currently enjoying careers in Computer Science and Information Technology and get the inside scoop on what it's really like to work in this field. During this panel professionals will share their personal stories about breaking into the field, how their career paths took them from graduation to where they are now, what knowledge, skills and experience helped them succeed in their jobs and what types of opportunities are available in the field. The panel will be moderated by one of the Career Centre's team members and followed by an open forum where students will have an opportunity to ask the panelists their own questions.
Participating Panelists:
Hania Abd-El-Razik
Software Engineer, IBM Canada
Alumna: BSc Computer Science, 2006
After taking a rather nonchalant approach to career preparation, Hania somehow managed to become a co-op, intern, student-on-call, and finally a regular employee at IBM Canada. As a student, rather than fretting about "competitiveness" and "networking" (actually these concepts didn't really register with her at the time), Hania instead unwittingly volunteered to do IT work in student clubs, help out at her family's computer business, and choose courses in school that were interesting to her regardless of whether they were "marketable" or "easy". Over five years of professional experience later, her passion for technology has only been amplified, as has her exploration of an ever-growing list of (often unrelated) interests.
Mian Ali Azar
Product Manager, Browser & Cloud Services, TELUS
Alumnus: BSc Science & Engineering, York University, 2006
I manage end to end web browsing (at a high level) on all mobile devices (smartphones, tablets etc.) including mobile portals & TELUS partnerships with Microsoft, Google, Ericsson & Alcatel-Lucent.
I have always dreamed of working on the top floor of a large IT or communications company, but never did I imagine I would get to do that, play with the latest phones and gadgets, work with a manager who allows me a flexible schedule to suit my needs and lifestyle and get paid for it all. I feel like I am living the dream life, whilst still having plenty of time to enjoy it doing the things I love the most, surrounded by people who inspire and support me in everything I do.
Hossein Mohajer
Network Specialist/ Consultant, TD Bank
Alumnus: BA Economics, York University, 1996
I graduated with a degree in economics in 1996. I have built my career in IT, with focus on Network Technologies over the past 10 years in large organizations. Beside technical skills my roles have required strong communication and collaboration skills to achieve results. I am result oriented and have a keen interest in seeing young people develop and achieve their career goals
Eugen Spivak
Managing Director, ADT Group Inc.
Alumnus: MBA Schulich School of Business, York University, 2006
BSc Computer Science, York University, 1999
My background is in project, program and technology management of global and local teams where I acted as a consultant, employee, and entrepreneur within a variety of industries. This ranges from the public sector to banking, energy to telecommunications. My goal in coaching is simplicity, which is the evidence of the most advanced teachings. You can always find me on LinkedIn or Facebook. Best of luck in your undertakings!
