Meet a Tutor: Johnathan Nicholson

Meet a Tutor: Johnathan Nicholson

Johnathan Nicholson

Computer Science Student at California Polytechnic State University

Tell us a little about yourself…

I am a sophomore at California Polytechnic State University. I am a Software Engineering major. While I play racquetball when I can, I have played golf for 12 years and played for the Division one golf team here at Cal Poly last year.

When did you first start learning computer science?

I started coding in 9th grade. At that point I had started to learn some of the cool things you could do with an excel spread sheet and I wanted to learn about how the computer did what it did. From there I learned Java as my first language (mostly doing things like rock, paper, scissors ).

Do you have any favorite programs or projects that you’ve built?

My favorite project that I worked on so far was to make a replica of the game “Fire Emblem”, a tactical role-playing game. I did it using Microsoft’s C# language and the XNA game framework.

Other than that I am currently working on code for the Cal Poly Robotics Club. Specifically I am helping with the Underwater Remote Operated Vehicle communication, control and sensor systems.

How would you like to use computer science and programming in the future?

I am not sure if I want to pursue artificial intelligence, robotics or web-development yet.

Fun facts about you?

I took two and a half years of chemistry in high school yet I don’t have to take chemistry in College…

Favorite ice cream flavor?

Mint chip!

Words of advice for the next generation of coders?

COMMENT EVERYTHING!!!!!! Just kidding, kinda… But really, the most important thing for a programmer to have is curiosity above all. Many of the best programmers are just the most curious.