Brandeis GPS Blog Articles in December, 2022

Student Spotlight

Rebecca Davis ‘25

Waltham, MA

Software engineer at Akamai Technologies

Program: Master of Software Engineering

In her spare time, Rebecca loves to play different video games across many different systems. She also enjoys doing custom computer builds for both herself and her friends. Outside of computers, she collect plushes, clay and glass figurines, purses and bags, and video game-related stuff.

Get to know Rebecca Davis!

Why did you choose Brandeis GPS?

I was sorting through lists of schools with working professional-friendly programs. I recognized the Brandeis name, and after asking around about the school in general, I learned that Leslie Lamport, a well known computer scientist, had received his PhD from Brandeis. After learning this, I was certain that I would receive an excellent education in my field from Brandeis GPS.

What inspired you to choose your field of study?

I originally became interested in programming after taking a Visual Basic class in high school. I had to fill an elective slot and my guidance counselor recommended it, since I was good at math and liked the teacher. I fell in love and then went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Studying software engineering is the next logical step in working on improving myself as a developer.

How have you enjoyed your experience at Brandeis thus far?

I was initially hesitant about the course format being completely online. The GPS folks made it easy for me to see if I liked it before committing, and I’m glad I was able to give it a try. I’ve very much enjoyed working with other students, professors, and the staff.

What has been your favorite class to-date?

I’ve only finished Software Testing Techniques so far, so I suppose it would have to be that one. It was a great experience and definitely helped cement my choice to study here. I am very much enjoying the class I’m currently taking this session.

What are your hopes and aspirations for the rest of your time at Brandeis?

I hope to take many classes on subjects that are new to me. My undergraduate program was a great foundation, but the classes available to me here will help give me experience in the application of current technologies.

For more information on the Master of Software Engineering or any other GPS programs, visit our website.

Student Spotlight

Liza “Crystabel” Rangel, ‘23

Los Angeles, CA

Product Manager at CreativEngine

Program: MS in User-Centered Design

Crystabel likes to read, draw, and play the piano in her spare time. However, she is passionate about community building and serving underserved populations. As a daughter of Mexican immigrants, she understands the hardships that marginalized people face. She volunteers doing community clean-ups as well as distributing goods. She is also currently a Chapter Director in Los Angeles for Techqueria, a nonprofit that serves the largest global community of Latine professionals in tech.

She is a true believer that When We Grow Others, We Grow Ourselves.

Get to know Crystabel Rangel!

Why did you choose Brandeis GPS?
I chose Brandeis for the courses offered in the UCD program. I liked the flexibility of being able to keep working while also studying. I also received strong and positive reviews of the program, which made Brandeis my top choice. I am truly honored to be accepted as a student.

What inspired you to choose your field of study?
I started incorporating a user-centered design process at my current job. The more I learned about UX, the more I fell in love with the discipline and industry.

How have you enjoyed your experience at Brandeis thus far?
My experience at Brandeis has been exceptionally positive. I have enjoyed getting to know my professors and classmates. In addition, the material covered in the courses is highly relevant to the UX field and provides me with knowledge and skills to improve my professional development.

What has been your favorite class to-date?
My favorite class thus far is Design Operation and Leadership with Professor David Lumerman. This course taught me strategies for effective leadership and operational tactics to build teams and manage resources.

What are your hopes and aspirations for the rest of your time at Brandeis?
I am on track to complete my program in Spring 2023. For the remaining time that I am in the program, I hope to help build and foster a community among the students in the UCD Program to help us stay connected, provide resources, and help each other succeed.

For more information on the User-Centered Design program or any other GPS programs, visit our website.