Every other week we spotlight an OMSCS TA, so you can get to know who's behind the screen. Here are four questions for Michael Jeszenka who TAs CS 6290: High Performance Computer Architecture.
What do you do professionally?
I am a software developer, primarily backend, for a startup called TrackX.
Why do you TA for OMSCS?
After graduating, I realized how much I missed the OMSCS experience. There is so much content to digest in these courses that even after passing them I felt that I could still dive deeper into the material.
Specifically, I choose to TA for High Performance Computer Architecture for two reasons: One is that this class exposes me to lower levels of computing that I don’t experience in my day job. The second reason is my admiration for the head TA who on all accounts goes above and beyond the call of duty. If I’m going to be a TA, then why not learn from the best?
What's your advice for future students in OMSCS?
Take it slow, one class a semester. Having a discrete math class under your belt before starting will definitely help. Be comfortable in writing code, especially in C if you decide on the computing systems specialization. Lastly, when things get stressful try to relax and enjoy yourself. Remember that you don’t need to be perfect, and while education is important, there are still things which are more important in life.
What's your favorite memory from your time in or working with OMSCS so far?
My favorite memory is the relationship I built with a fellow student named Bryan Johnston, who introduced me to the world of high performance computing. We worked on projects, studied together, met up personally at a large tech conference, and I now consider him a friend for life. The socializing aspect of school was not at all on my list of considerations when I began OMSCS and was completely unexpected.
