1. Please introduce yourself

My name is Minyoung Yoo, studying Computer Science in University of Waterloo. I currently serve as a chapter chair in AKCSE U of Waterloo as well as a past executive member in YGN External Academics team.

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2. Please tell us your field of study! What made you choose your field?

I study Computer Science (CS). It is similar to Computer Engineering, but focus more on theories. Computer-related field is one of the most rapidly growing fields. When I was young, I wanted to be a programmer because I liked playing games. However, as I spend more time studying CS, I find this field is very interesting because it can collaborate with various fields, creating unexpected synergy. Popular studies that gain a lot of public attentions these days are; Big Data (Data Mining and Analysis), Deep Learning (Machine Learning), Artificial Intelligence, Augmented/Virtual Reality and Internet of Things.

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3. What is troubling you the most while studying in your field?

For me, understanding complex algorithms has always been hard. I did not know there are tons of math involved when it comes to learn new concepts. Implementing concepts to actual code is also very challenging. Knowing in theory and using it in real world application where appropriate are totally different stories.

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4. What do you hope to achieve with your career?

I would like to help people in need with technology. It looks like that enjoying the comfort of using high-tech devices is a privilege for those who have. I want to transfer this down to the have-nots. Implementing current leading technology to design solutions that can impact the poor and the handicapped is my career goal. 

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5. What is one thing you liked about interning at Microsoft?

It’s been a great opportunity to work with one of top tech companies. What I truly liked about interning at MS is having a chance to meet diverse professionals. MS is a huge company that people from various backgrounds gather up and work on interesting projects. I got to meet many developers, project managers, designers, HR specialists and other interns to share each other’s unique experiences and stories. It helped me setting my new career (and academic) goal for the next few years.

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6. Could you tell us any tips for a job interview?

Focus on the basics. You don’t have to know every single problem. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember to communicate with interviewers. Smile and be confident. 

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7. What is your study tactics?

I do follow the standard tactics. Go over the notes and textbooks thoroughly, then move on to practice questions. I prone not to work on the question before I fully understand the concept. While studying, I like making my own summarizing note for each subject, so that I can go over important concepts quickly before exams.​

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8. If you have a time machine that works exactly once, where and when would you like to visit?

I appreciate and embrace every moment that I have been gone through, because those moments have made myself in the present. I would save the time machine for the future. I am sure I will definitely need the time machine one day.