Since the computer became popular, I had a specific interest in computers. However, unlike most of the techie folks, I am not one of those who would engage in very technical projects. For a normal person though, I am considered a techie. So what do I mean?
For one, I decided to take up Computer Science in the university, contrary my dad's preference for me to take up Business and Commerce. At that time, it was still quite new. I was part of the 5th batch of computer science graduates that completed the course. Most of the techie's would have been in Engineering degrees in the past prior to this. I actually chose to take on Computer Technology vs Information Technology, which means I focus more on the hardware versus the software. I really don't know why I did this, despite the fact that I don't intend to be an engineer or technician. But maybe because it offered more prestige. Anyway, I enjoyed the course, maybe because I treat it more as a hobby than a preparation for a career. I even learned to solder boards and create a robot for our thesis. Honestly, if you ask me today, I can't imagine how I could have gone through that and passed :)
Anyway, I did take on a technical career. I started out as a programmer, and did that for three years before I realized that I didn't want to do that for the rest of my life and needed to expand to another field. Thus, I pursued my MBA.
Throughout the years, my technical knowledge dwindled as I got involved less and less with my course. After I graduated with my MBA, I pursued a more process focused field although in the same industry. After a few years, I was faced with the hardware terminologies once again, when dealing with our engineers. I suddenly had a flashback, but couldn't really remember what the items were. Besides, technology had changed so fast that whatever I learned was probably outdated. But to my surprise, it still helps me with my job to this day. Even if I am not an expert in the nitty gritty details, I would at least kinda have an idea what their use is and what is feasible to do or not. It is enough for me to know whether my technology guy is doing his job or not.
Today, I am still able to open up my CPU and at least try to find out what's wrong - enough to do a quick fix or call the technician. This saves a lot of time. I can open up something, and then put it back together, even if I don't really know what to do. Same thing with software. I can search for cracks, haha. I can install software, then undo if it does not work. I would say 50% of the time or even a little bit more, I am able to complete the job without really knowing what to do. I just try and tinker with it.
You can probably compare me to a handyman, but more limited to computers - home computers at the very least. Very rare, especially for a female to have this skill. I often joke about it, but I am born to a man who sold hardware, not computer hardware, but tools and machines. Somehow, without even any training, it seems that I have a natural knack for it. It's in my blood! :-)
No comments:
Post a Comment