Software Systems, AI, and more
we aren’t just engineers."
Danielle VanDyke, Grand Rapids, Michigan, has lofty aspirations: manage the development of large software systems, research artificial intelligence and emotion, and create software that helps make technology more integral to the way humans interact. VanDyke enrolled at Michigan Tech because on her campus visit as a senior in high school she encountered friendliness and encouragement. She also received scholarships.
She likes the fact that her classes in both disciplines are small and it’s easy to get to know everyone; and she likes the flexibility to tailor courses "to fit my goals and plans." The most satisfying aspect of college life has been her changed expectations of herself. "I have succeeded in a lot of areas I never even thought I would try. There are opportunities everywhere at Tech and no limitations."
Her advice to prospective college students: "There are options here for almost everyone—we aren’t just engineers. Also, Tech is always fun because there is so much to do—outdoor activities, student organizations, events like Winter Carnival and K-Day, intramurals, meeting people, exploring options, and a vibrant community with lots of places to go and fun people."
Her most satisfying experience is realizing how much she’s learned. "It’s amazing. I spent a semester as a co-op student working for a very large hardware firm, and, because of my classes at Tech, I was really able to impress my coworkers and managers with my programming skills. That gave me a huge boost of confidence."
She works with the local Humane Society and has also earned a red belt in Tae Kwon Do, "a sport I never thought I would do but ended up joining my first day of freshman classes." She’s been an officer in that group, as well as a teacher in the Tae Kwon Do physical education class.