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Maurice Herlihy has an A.B. in Mathematics from Harvard University, and a Ph.D. in Computer Science from M.I.T. He has served on the faculty of Carnegie Mellon University and the staff of DEC Cambridge Research Lab. He is the recipient of the 2003 Dijkstra Prize in Distributed Computing, the 2004 Gödel Prize in theoretical computer science, the 2008 ISCA influential paper award, the 2012 Edsger W. Dijkstra Prize, and the 2013 Wallace McDowell award. He received a 2012 Fulbright Distinguished Chair in the Natural Sciences and Engineering Lecturing Fellowship, and he is fellow of the ACM, a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, the National Academy of Engineering, and the National Academy of Arts and Sciences. In 2022, he won his third Dijkstra Prize.
Connect with him to learn more.
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Here are Five Things We Cover:
- Grades Aren’t Everything: Grades may open some doors, but they aren’t the ultimate factor in determining your success in tech. While it’s important to maintain decent grades, employers are far more interested in your ability to solve problems, work on real-world projects, and think creatively. A perfect GPA doesn’t guarantee success if it comes at the expense of taking risks, exploring new interests, or gaining hands-on experience. Focus on building a well-rounded profile that reflects your initiative and willingness to learn.
- Real-World Experience Matters: Internships and side projects are critical for breaking into the tech industry. They provide hands-on experience, expose you to real-world challenges, and help you develop practical skills. Internships also serve as extended job interviews, giving employers a chance to evaluate your performance and determine if you’re a good fit for their team. Similarly, side projects allow you to demonstrate your initiative and technical abilities while building a portfolio that showcases your strengths.
- Flexibility is Key: The tech industry evolves rapidly, and having a flexible mindset is crucial. While you may feel pressured to specialize early, it’s often better to explore different areas of computer science, such as AI, blockchain, or interdisciplinary combinations like computer science and finance. A broad foundation allows you to pivot as trends shift and ensures you’re prepared for a range of opportunities. Use your early academic years to take diverse courses, experiment with different fields, and discover what truly excites you.
- Stay Ahead of Emerging Trends: Keeping up with industry trends is essential for staying relevant in the tech landscape. New technologies like generative AI and blockchain are transforming the industry, and understanding these advancements can give you a competitive edge. Stay informed by reading industry blogs, following thought leaders on LinkedIn, and attending job fairs to learn what skills and tools are in demand. Being proactive about trends ensures you’re always prepared for the next big opportunity.
- Balance Technical Skills with Big-Picture Thinking: While technical skills like programming languages and tools are essential for starting your career, long-term success requires strategic thinking, adaptability, and leadership. Over time, you’ll move into roles that require managing teams, making decisions, and understanding broader business goals. Developing a big-picture perspective early on will help you transition smoothly into leadership positions and make you a more valuable contributor to any organization.
Here are Three Actionable Takeaways From This Episode
- 1. Build a Portfolio of Real-World Projects: Employers value hands-on experience that demonstrates your ability to solve real problems. Start building a portfolio by contributing to open-source projects, developing apps, or collaborating on research. Use platforms like GitHub to showcase your work, and align your projects with emerging trends like AI, blockchain, or data science. A portfolio not only highlights your technical skills but also shows initiative and creativity.
2. Leverage Internships for Networking and Experience: Internships are one of the most effective ways to gain experience and make connections in the tech industry. Treat them as extended job interviews by demonstrating your skills, reliability, and ability to collaborate. Many employers use internships to identify future full-time hires, so make the most of these opportunities to leave a lasting impression.
3. Stay Ahead by Following Industry Trends: Tech evolves quickly, and staying informed is critical for staying relevant. Keep an eye on emerging tools and technologies, like generative AI or blockchain, to identify skill gaps and future opportunities. Regularly check industry blogs, attend webinars, and follow thought leaders to ensure you’re up-to-date on the latest developments.