Career Exploration Video & Audio
Career Conversations Panel:
Discovering Careers in Computer Science and Information Technology
Recorded October 3, 2011
During this panel, professionals with careers in Computer Science and Information Technology shared 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.
| Computer Science & IT Panel: Full Session |
Panelist Introductions
Hania Abd-El-Razik
Software Engineer, IBM Canada
Alumna: BSc Computer Science, 2006
Hania was 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 volunteered to do IT work in student clubs, helped out at her family's computer business, and chose 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 interests.
| Computer Science & IT Panel: Hania Abd-El-Razik Intro |
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.
| Computer Science & IT Panel: Mian Ali Azar Intro |
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
| Computer Science & IT Panel: Hossein Mohajer Intro |
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!
| Computer Science & IT Panel: Eugen Spivak Intro |
Questions & Answers
| How did you land your first job in the field? | |||
| What skills, experience and knowledge could students acquire while studying at York that would make them competitive for an entry level position in this field? | |||
| Hania, how much time do you spend programming and in what languages? | |||
| What is a day in your life like in your current position? | |||
Does your company prefer to use the most up to date technologies or versions that are more established? |
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| How can employees in your company further develop their soft skills once they are hired? | |||
| Do employers prefer a degree in computer science or information technology? | |||
| Could you discuss the role of outsourcing or contract workers in your company? | |||
| Did you receive training when you were hired, or were you expected to already have the knowledge you needed for the job? | |||
What do you most and least enjoy about your job? |
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