Faces on Campus – Jackie Saarenas
Jackie Saarenas is a native Seattleite and a passionate educational administrator. As the Associate Director for Graduate Advising and Student Services, she supports all aspects of the Master of Science in Computer Science program in Seattle. Prior to her current role at NU-Seattle, she worked in various roles supporting learning, access, retention and engagement in higher education. Inspired by her own experiences in higher education, her master’s research focused on learning communities and first-generation college student engagement.
We caught up with Jackie to gain some insight into the diverse and ever-evolving selection of Computer Science programs offered here at NU-Seattle.
Why should people study computer science?
Computer science is in everything that we use today. It’s the Digital Age and there is a strong need for computer scientists, therefore there are strong employment opportunities all over but especially here in Seattle where there is a concentration of technology needs.
What are the fundamental skills required for a graduate degree in computer science?
In my opinion, the skills required for a computer science student are not too different from other programs. It is so important to be motivated, open minded, and gritty. Being foundationally familiar with computational systems is very helpful when it comes to coursework but it is not necessarily a prerequisite. The ALIGN program is a great example of accessibility to the field and proof that almost anyone can pursue a degree in computer science if they have the discipline and willpower to push through the curriculum, they will absolutely thrive in this field.
What does the future hold for CCIS at NU-Seattle?
The CCIS program at NU-Seattle is focused on enhancing our visibility in the local region and tech environment, expanding upon alumni and enrollment numbers, as well as consistently evolving and growing.
By looking at our growth since we were established in Fall 2013, it is clear that the opportunities are endless. As technology advances, the opportunities and courses offered at NU-Seattle are going to be enhanced. Computer Science as a field is becoming more desirable and recognized and more people of diverse backgrounds are seeing it as an opportunity for them. This growth is exciting and a great indicator of what is to come from our campus.
The Northeastern University ALIGN program is designed to quickly and efficiently earn you a master of science degree in one of today’s most popular STEM professions. ALIGN was created specifically to prepare bachelor’s degree holders for high-demand industries, regardless of their experience or undergraduate major. What sets the ALIGN program apart from the other courses offered at NU-Seattle?
The ALIGN program supports access into the field of computer science. Its an intense bridge program, but it is also high-touch. The staff and faculty work closely with the students and with the intimate class size it fosters a foundation of care and support. As a result, we are connecting with students who are underrepresented in tech, cultivating their computer science skills and further diversifying the field. The high retention and graduation rate we have for our ALIGN students at NU-Seattle is something to be very proud of.
How does somebody know if the ALIGN program is what is best for them?
If somebody is considering enrolling in the ALIGN program at NU-Seattle, I would definitely advise them to get involved with anything that gives them a more in-depth picture of what the program entails. I would encourage them to attend Open Houses, meet with the CCIS team here at NU-Seattle, sit in on a class or attend CCIS events like Break into Tech. This approach would give them a significant amount of information to make a confident decision in enrolling.
Does somebody hailing from a non-tech background have a greater disadvantage when undertaking the ALIGN program?
There is a steep learning curve for students coming from a non-tech or non-computer science background and that is expected. However, if an individual has some overall experience with the processes and tools, which they can familiarize themselves with on their own, they can certainly thrive in the coursework. There will certainly be challenging coursework introduced regardless, but that does not mean it is impossible and this is evident in the matriculation and completion of the program for our students.