Brian Yu graduates from UConn’s College of Engineering with a degree in computer science and already has secured employment as a software engineer. Brian credits the various career fairs he attended at UConn as one of the ways he already has employment before graduation. Like many Huskies, his advice to incoming students is to attend a basketball game – he even wrote his answers the night after both the men’s and women’s team advanced to the Final Four!
Why did you choose UConn?
Before I first toured UConn, I wasn’t completely sold on attending. At the time, it was just a school my high school pre-calculus teacher had recommended I apply to. However, after visiting the Storrs campus, I could genuinely see myself going here. UConn’s location was also appealing since it’s close to home without being too close, and the financial aid I received played a major role in my decision.
What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
My major is computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity, along with a minor in software design within the School of Business. I’ve always been interested in technology and am strong in math, which naturally led me toward this field. After taking both AP computer science courses in high school, I knew this was something I wanted to pursue.
Did you have a favorite professor or class?
My favorite class during my time at UConn has been CSE 3250, Introduction to Cloud Computing, which I’m taking in my final semester. It’s also my first class with Professor Jon Clark, and I wish I had the chance to take more courses with him before graduating. The class focuses on the fundamentals of Amazon Web Services, and by the end of the course, students have the opportunity to take the AWS Developer Associate certification exam, which is a valuable credential to have.
What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
Following my graduation this spring, I will be working as a software engineer at FactSet. I’m looking forward to applying the skills I’ve developed at UConn and continuing to grow as a developer in a professional environment.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
UConn has helped prepare me for the next chapter of my life through its career fairs. Attending multiple career fairs, particularly those focused on engineering, gave me the opportunity to connect with recruiters from a variety of companies and improve my professional communication skills. These experiences also helped me gain a better understanding of how the industry operates.
Through these career fairs, I’ve gone through several interviews, which have given me valuable practice and helped me become more confident when discussing my skills and experiences. Overall, these opportunities have played an important role in preparing me for the workforce.
Any advice for incoming students?
Utilize all the resources that UConn offers you. Attend the career fairs to network, use the tutoring centers available in the library, and especially for computer science majors, the BEACH in ITE is a great space for students to get additional help in computer science courses.
What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
I know everybody says this, but one thing everyone must do is go to a men’s and women’s basketball game!! (I’m also answering this question right after Braylon Mullins just hit a game-winning three-pointer to bring us to the Final Four.)
What will always make you think of UConn?
Huskies! Anytime I see a husky, it makes me think of Jonathan and UConn.
