Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hi, my name is Amit Patel. I am a senior at Wentworth Institute of Technology majoring in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Computer Science! I have lived in Massachusetts for most of my life. I am a car and consumer technology enthusiast with an extensive background in Information Technology and Software Development process.
What got you interested in Computer Information Systems?
I used to be a Computer Science student until midway through my junior year. I had to switch to Computer Information Systems to fit in the co-op I wanted, so the closest major to CS was CIS, and I’ve always had an interest in IT. I also saw it as a good fit because I had difficulty grasping some of the CS topics such as algorithms.
What advice do you have for students interested in majoring in Computer Information Systems?
The advice I have for students interested in majoring in CIS is that it offers many different opportunities from general IT, to systems administration, web development, Database administrator, and so forth. There’s also the business side which is fantastic if you’re interested in managing projects that have a broad range. CIS is a perfect starting point trying to figure out what you want to do as a career and is growing.
What extracurricular activities are you involved in at Wentworth Institute of Technology?
Unfortunately, I do not participate in extracurricular activities because that I work part-time. However, you can almost always find me at the Info Hub in Beatty Hall. But outside of school I am usually interning, or working a part-time professional job.
What was your journey like to get to where you are today?
My journey to get where I am today was rough in the sense that I for my last two years I have taken a course load five classes per semester, and having to make multiple classes while on co-op. However, for my professional career side, it’s been awesome. I have had various opportunities at Harvard, one as an IT co-op and the other being an IT Program Coordinator. My first and second required co-op was at AIR Worldwide as a Software Quality Assurance setting, and I recently wrapped up an internship at Search Fund Accelerator as an Information Systems Intern primarily working on Salesforce configuration and integrations.
Where do you see yourself 1-2 years after graduation?
In one to two years after graduation, I see myself working as a consultant or a web developer and restoring an old Nissan GTR.
What advice do you have for students looking for a co-op/internship?
My advice to students looking for a co-op or internship is to apply, apply, and apply! I can’t stress this enough. Even if there is not an opening at a company, reach out to recruiters and ask if there is an opening. Or if even they proceeded with other candidates, ask for feedback as to why! That way you keep improving your skills. Also, start searching well before your co-op term, it makes it a lot easier and gives you plenty of time to breathe. Moreover, attend the career fair or go to networking events, definitely reach out to the co-op & careers office and talk to them about want you are looking for. You can also ask your professors who most have worked in the industry and can help you polish your skills.
What’s your favorite place in Boston?
I love riding my bicycle around Boston, and its almost impossible to pick one specific spot in Boston. My favorite places would be the Public Garden, the Esplanade, and love Harvard Square for the food!
Do you have any words of wisdom that you want to give to the careerbyte community?
My words of wisdom are to keep grinding, don’t stop till you achieve what you’ve set for yourself!
