College Spotlight

Studying the Big Picture Up Close

Alison Tanner, computer science student

Computer science student Alison Tanner sees her education at the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences as having more than one purpose.

As a consultant who helps technology businesses work more effectively, she is using her NSU education to learn about the technological fundamentals driving computer-based projects. But Tanner also wants to use her strengthening grasp of the field's technical side to help South Florida develop a more robust technology-industry base.

In her past work with software and Internet companies, Tanner sometimes felt limited when client conversations turned to technical issues. “I wanted to better understand and evaluate my clients from every angle,” she said. “With what I’ve learned from my studies here, I now bring a more well-rounded perspective to the table.”

Tanner's interest in technology has reinforced her dedication to big-picture issues. “Technology companies are part of my ‘bread and butter,’ so of course I’m interested in having them thrive here,” she said. “But as someone committed to South Florida for the long term, I also want to see the area enjoy the benefits of a strong ‘knowledge economy,’ such as the creation of higher-paying jobs and more rapid economic growth.”

NSU's computer science students contribute to that goal, Tanner insisted. When she was an officer of a large Internet company in Fort Lauderdale, she found it difficult to find adequately prepared local applicants for technical jobs. “I know companies that have tried to locate or expand here but couldn’t recruit enough qualified technology staff members to support their growth plans. The computer programs at NSU prepare students to help close that gap.”

Closing the gap is an important goal in the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences, said Saeed Rajput, Ph.D., assistant professor and coordinator of the college's computer science programs. “Our faculty are industry veterans who understand the pressures of today's technical workforce,” he noted. “We are providing a bridge between the existing talent in the industry and future generations that will replace them.”

Knowledge can flow in both directions across that bridge, especially from top students like Tanner, Rajput said. “She often provides valuable insight in the classroom, where her classmates learn about the related real-life applications.”

Tanner appreciates working on projects that will someday find real-world applications. “During the winter semester, we began to design an automated course-scheduling system for the computer science department,” she said. “It’s meaningful to see your project actually put into use. Graduates with that kind of experience are more competitive in the job market.”