Tech Talk Notes
- This blog is NOT a summary of the panelists’ experiences
- This blog IS a guide to remind myself of how I’ll use what I’m learning in the real world
For grading purposes:

Organizing Properly
- Decomposition is key: break big problems into small pieces, then reassemble for solutions
- Project-based learning makes this process fun and engaging
- Using AGILE and Scrum can make me a lot more credible and organized
For example: Using this blog, I can break down improvements I should make, and then see my progress on those improvements every now and then by referring back to the blog.
How do I show people that I matter
When applying for jobs or internships:
- Highlight achievements
- Use numbers to show impact
- Explain why what I’m talking about all matters
For example: This blog is important because in the future, it’s going to help me recall the advice from the panelists and how I should continue to implement it
Clearer Communication
Visuals make communicating 10 times better:
- Flowcharts
- UML diagrams
- Data tables
- Use case diagrams (UX)
- User flow charts
Example: Loved how David’s visualization of Dijkstra’s algorithm paired with a flow chart can make it much easier to understand even a complex thing
Harnessing Harsh Advice
- Criticism can be helpful
- Pick and choose the feedback that works best for me, and begin implementing it to show progression.
Example: Taking Mr. Mortensen’s criticism on our video and applying that to my next self-grading to truly understand how to improve on those things
Importance of Projects
- College apps: Talk about my projects.
- Research college majors and their projects.
- Tie my interests into their work for a great “Why us?” essay answer.
Example: Doing more passion projects!
GPA Isn’t Everything
- Explore dual enrollment or community college classes.
- I should work on broadening my skills beyond just grades.