From Coursework to Curiosity: Exploring Self-Driven Learning Post-OMSCS

Abstract

As OMSCS students near graduation, a key question arises: “What am I going to do with all this free time?” After completing the program in 2023, I soon felt a strong urge to explore new avenues in the software world—but it took time to identify paths for technical growth beyond Georgia Tech. This talk, “From Coursework to Curiosity: Exploring Self-Driven Learning Post-OMSCS”, will cover practical strategies for maintaining a learner’s mindset, from discovering communities of knowledge-sharers to tracking and organizing “rabbit hole” explorations. In this talk, I’ll cover core strategies for sustaining technical growth, including attending professional conferences, getting involved in local tech meetups, and finding your own voice as a thought leader within the software community. Additionally, I’ll discuss opportunities to broaden learning beyond the technical—such as volunteering in the community, mentoring, youth outreach, and exploring the arts—that contribute to a balanced, fulfilling journey. These diverse activities have deepened my perspective while building meaningful connections outside of structured environments. By sharing my journey and strategies, I hope to inspire attendees to enhance their own paths as lifelong learners. This talk aims to spark further conversations, encouraging others to share their unique experiences and insights with peers throughout the conference and beyond. Together, we can build a supportive community that values curiosity, personal growth, and continuous learning—helping each other navigate and thrive in the ever-evolving world beyond OMSCS.

Bio

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Emily Durie-Johnson is a software engineer with over 7 years of experience at Medtronic, where she has led several software teams to develop safety-critical software. She holds B.S. degrees in Computer Science and Neuroscience from the University of Michigan and an M.S. in Computer Science from Georgia Tech with a specialization in Computational Perception and Robotics. In her free time, she enjoys mentoring students through FIRST Robotics, playing music, and exploring nature.