Working in IT this past year has been both influential and deeply educational. The experience expanded my technical knowledge, strengthened my problem-solving abilities, and prepared me for future roles beyond college. I’ve gained hands-on experience that I know will be invaluable for my next chapter. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was working with hardware. Over the past semester alone, I worked on over twenty devices, each presenting different challenges due to brand variations and configurations. In many cases, I was tasked with stripping hard drives, removing SSDs, and occasionally extracting RAM. These tasks not only sharpened my technical capabilities but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the internal architecture of computers. I found peace and focus in learning how individual components come together, and I’m eager to take on more complex hardware tasks in the future. I often relied on Google, documentation, and input from colleagues to find solutions, which helped reinforce a key lesson: resourcefulness is just as important as technical knowledge. Through the recycling process, I learned how important each step is to ensuring secure and responsible device management.

Another major area of growth was in client interaction. One of my goals this year was to improve my ability to assist individuals at the help desk, and I feel proud of my progress. I answered a wide range of inquiries through both phone calls and ticketing systems, which taught me how to communicate technical information effectively and patiently. I now better understand the importance of clear documentation, timely follow-up, and active listening when working with end users. Looking ahead, I want to master the full ticketing process and eventually help design an automated system for common IT issues that don’t require technician intervention. This would streamline support and free up time for higher-level problem-solving. I’m excited about what’s next. Whether it’s working with Jon on hardware, shadowing Dan in the field, or assisting faculty and students with Joel’s guidance, I aim to deepen my expertise and refine my diagnostic skills. I’ve begun exploring skill-building resources to further diversify my knowledge base, and I’m committed to continuously developing transferable technical skills within the IT field. This year reaffirmed my passion for technology and problem-solving. I’m grateful for the hands-on opportunities, the support from my team, and the lessons I’ve learned, and I look forward to growing even more in the weeks ahead.