Eric Magutu

Years of professional experience?
15

What was your major and background?
Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Research/Engagement Experience

What are your interests within computer science?
There are several areas within computer science that I'm particularly interested in. One of my main interests is in the field of systems and networks. I enjoy learning about how different components of a system work together to achieve a specific goal. I'm fascinated by the challenges of designing, building, and maintaining complex systems that can handle large volumes of data and users. Another area that I'm interested in is software engineering and development. I enjoy the process of designing and building software, and I'm passionate about creating software that is both functional and user-friendly. Within software engineering, I'm particularly interested in distributed systems and networks, which involve building software that runs on multiple computers or servers that communicate with each other over a network. I'm excited to explore the unique challenges of developing software in this context, such as ensuring fault tolerance and maintaining consistency across different machines. Finally I'm also interested in artificial intelligence and machine learning. I find it fascinating how computers can be trained to learn and make predictions based on data, and I'm excited to explore the potential applications of this technology in areas such as healthcare, finance, and telecommunications.

Project Title

How did you get interested in Computer Science?
I first became interested in computer science when I was in high school. I got a book on introductory programming with Visual Basic and was immediately drawn to the logical and problem-solving nature of coding. I loved being able to create something from scratch and see it come to life on the screen. My interest in computer science has only grown over time, and I'm excited to continue exploring this field and learning more about how technology can be used to make a positive impact on the world.

What social interests matter to you?

What is your most impactful iCAN experience?
My most impactful iCAN was taking a course on algorithms.The class was challenging, but it taught me the importance of thinking critically and systematically when solving complex problems. Throughout the course, we studied various algorithms, such as sorting algorithms, graphs, and trees. We learned how to analyze the performance of different algorithms and determine which one would be the most efficient for a given problem. What made this experience so impactful was the way it changed the way I approached problem-solving. I began to see problems in a more structured and logical way, and I learned how to break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Furthermore, the course also helped me develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the theoretical underpinnings of computer science. It was eye-opening to see how these concepts could be applied to a wide range of practical problems in computer science. Overall, this experience taught me valuable skills and gave me a solid foundation in computer science theory that I will carry with me throughout my career.

What are your hobbies/outside interests?
In addition to my passion for computer science, I have several outside interests and hobbies that I enjoy pursuing. One of my main hobbies is reading. I love to read books across a wide range of genres, from science fiction to biographies to history. I find reading to be a great way to expand my knowledge and perspectives on the world. Another interest of mine is traveling. I love to explore new places and learn about different cultures. I've been fortunate enough to travel to several countries in the past few years, including US, Spain, and Thailand. Traveling has helped me develop a greater appreciation for diversity and has broadened my understanding of different cultures and ways of life. Finally, I also enjoy staying active through running. I try to run several times a week to stay in shape and clear my mind. Running helps me to stay focused and energised, and I enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with setting and achieving fitness goals. Overall, I find that pursuing these interests and hobbies helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance and keeps me motivated and inspired in my studies and career.

Where are you from?
Nairobi, Kenya