Each week we spotlight an OMSCS TA, so you can get to know who's behind the screen. Here are four questions for Diane Nguyen, who TAs CS 6291 (Embedded Software Optimization).
What do you do professionally?
I recently became a cloud engineer at Slalom, which is an IT consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, but I'm based in their Atlanta market. I help clients on various aspects of their cloud journey. I was previously a systems engineer at Epic Systems, an electronic health records software company. I was involved in several projects, including server hardware sizing, designing new software requirements, coordinating bug fixes for security vulnerabilities, cloud migration strategies, and consulting clients on their overall IT infrastructure.
Why do you TA for OMSCS?
I wanted to give back because of the tremendous help I've gotten from TAs in my other courses. I'm TAing Embedded Software Optimizations (CS 6291) because I've always had a strong interest in embedded software and computer architecture, and I wanted to stay involved with the class. It's also always fun having the chance to interact with students who have years of experience in this field since they can bring new ideas to the table.
What's your advice for future students in OMSCS?
I came into this program with eyes wide open because I studied biomedical engineering in undergrad. It was a huge learning curve for me, but if you actually enjoy what you're learning and put in the effort, it will be worth it. Also, don't be afraid to take the classes that have a notorious reputation for being difficult because those were the classes I learned and enjoyed the most. Remember to always make time for your personal life, too, because your friends and family will help ground you while you're trying to juggle work and school.
What hobby or activity are you looking forward to getting back to once you're done with OMSCS?
I'm actually an artist and haven't had much time for artwork ever since I started OMSCS. I'm excited to get back into painting once I graduate!
