Computer Engineering postgraduate teaching Computer Science topics (Computer Networks, Operating Systems, Digital Electronics, Cyber Security), Ranging from the basics to advanced concepts.

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• Can you tell us about your first experience using a computer?

  The earliest memory I have is one where my grandfather used to sit beside me and teach me all about the binary number system. This number system is what is used by a computer to carry out all operations. Then there were typing practices. I used to practice typing before I even started going to school. It is worth mentioning that my family has a computer center where basic computer skills are taught to students. The first time I used a computer; I opened a word document and typed an essay about myself. I don't exactly remember what I wrote, but I spent the rest of the day feeling pretty proud of myself. Now, as a computer engineer, like many other family members, I can say that the apple didn't fall far from the tree.

• What is the technological evolution that has marked you most and what will be, in your eyes, a turning point in this field?

  A lot of progress is being made in the field of computers. We have technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Neural Networks and Big Data. One of the most fascinating developments, according to me, is the core technology behind cloud computing, that is, Virtualization.
  
  Basically, to perform any function, simple or complex, there is little to no need for any additional physical hardware at all. This essentially means that one can make use of resources that do not even physically exist. Virtualization is not limited to just Cloud Computing. It has been integrated with various other technologies like Big Data. The turning point will be when virtualization is accessible to every computer user at all levels, which is possible because it is affordable, efficient and feasible.

• Explain your expertise, your interest in it and, more broadly, its importance in the computer world.

  I am in my final year of post-graduation in Computer Science. My dissertation is in the field of Cyber Security. My area of interest includes network security; most recently, I'm quite taken by the blockchain technology. Blockchain aims to establish a decentralized model of hosts. This means that rather than one server controlling the entire network, this control will be given to all the hosts that are a part of the network. Crypto currency is all the rage these days. The technology behind such an innovation is blockchain. The implementation areas for blockchain are in various organizations where a decentralized approach is needed.
  
  Blockchain will ensure that there is total transparency wherever any transactions are being carried out. In crowd-funding platforms, there is often a doubt regarding whether the funds are actually being delivered to the intended recipients or not. Blockchain implementation in this case will eliminate any doubts. Similarly, in a democratic country, voting campaigns must be led successfully. One necessity is that all the eligible citizens cast their votes, along with fair counting of the votes. This can be done by using the blockchain technology. Security assurance is a concern in every field. Like any other emerging technology, Blockchain will soon find its use in a majority of the technologies we are using presently.

• Do so-called 'visionaries', such as Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg inspire you or do you have other role models?

  I do admire visionaries like Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. That's because companies like Microsoft, Apple and Meta are regularly churning out new and improved products and technologies that are being used in various aspects of our lives. The origin stories of these companies are inspiring. They all had humble beginnings and paved their way into the world of technology through sheer hard work and determination.
  
  I also have people that inspire me in my daily life, like my parents, who are at great positions in their career, my elder brother who has always guided me, my uncle who I can always go to whenever I'm in a pinch and need advice. I'd say the people I'm surrounded with inspire me the most and I'm lucky to have these people to look up to.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  I received my school education from a good private school in my hometown. I can't say that I have been interested in computers since the early days. I actually used to fear my computer teacher a lot, like many other school kids. I did the bare minimum needed for computer class during my school days. In school, I was more into English and Biology, with English being my favorite subject. I had a good relationship with my English teacher. I struck up a friendship with my school librarian too. We were allowed to issue a maximum of two books for one week, but she'd let me issue more.
  
  I was an avid reader in school. During my free lectures, I used to head to the library and browse through the shelves to pick my book of the week. It got to the point that my mother had to confiscate the novels from the library to get me to actually study. Before starting college, I wanted to be an English teacher. But life happened and I found myself enrolled in a computer engineering course.

• What would you say to an uncomfortable person in front of a screen who says that "IT is too complicated"?

  The notion that something is too complicated and difficult is entirely dependent on self perception. I have been guilty of thinking and saying things like this too.
  When starting out with IT, believing that you'll be able to get the hang of things eventually should be the first step. It's true that nobody is born with these skills ingrained.
  
  Get familiar with your PC. Explore the different features it has to offer. If you need assistance then don't hesitate to ask for it. Remember, the computer has been created by human beings, so we are smarter than computers and are capable of doing much more than what a computer can accomplish. My advice is, start small, don't bite off more than you can chew and be patient.

• What are your other passions, related or non-related to computers?

  As I said while reminiscing about my school days, I love to read. I don't really remember what pushed me to pick up a book but it's one of the few things I enjoy till today. I'm trying to get more into reading these days, because ever since school, I've been too busy to read. My studies and other engagements don't really allow me to indulge in novels too often. It's a really good hobby to have as I've realized that it provides peace & calm to the mind. This also means that I get to spend time away from my devices. I have a good grasp of the English language and I give most of the credit to the fact that I've been reading novels since middle school. I briefly considered pursuing a degree in English. It really boosts up my confidence when I get told by native English speakers that I have good English. One of my passions is technology but it's safe to say that since childhood, my passion has been reading for pleasure and improving my English.

• What makes you a Superprof in IT?

  I started off by explaining concepts and topics to my classmates in school and got told that I should consider being a professor when I grow up. I frequently help out my siblings with things they find difficult to understand. One of my preferred studying techniques is the Feynman technique, which says to teach the concept you're studying to better understand it. I have been doing this since high school and I'm the teacher of our study group at college too.
  
  I would say that one of the necessary qualities to have is patience, and proceed at a pace that the student is comfortable with. This is something I pay special attention to while taking lessons. Another thing is the willingness to learn even while teaching. There have been instances where I've been asked to help out with concepts that I'm not too good with. But I went ahead and did my own research and was able to deliver the results to the students to their satisfaction. Nevertheless, I welcome constructive criticism and hope to only get better at being a Superprof.