CAREER TALK WITH KATHRYN MARCYNUK '07
Kathryn Marcynuk '07, a Ph.D. candidate in computer engineering recently spoke with Grade 8 students about the work she does and how she got to where she is today.
She explained that doctoral study requires pushing the boundaries of human knowledge because you love learning. According to Kathryn, one of the perks of being a grad student is that you are the master of your domain. There are many job opportunities to challenge yourself. However, she also said that the most difficult part of the process is self-motivation because she does not have a boss or a teacher.
In addition, Kathryn talked about her area of research: statistical signal processing. At first, she did not know what she wanted to do when she grew up. In fact, she had no idea that computer engineering existed. All she knew was that she was interested in computers. She said, “You navigate your way as you learn more,” which was exactly what she did, earning multiple degrees and discovering her passion for computer engineering.
Many Grade 8s wondered what the difference between computer science and computer engineering was. Briefly, Kathryn explained that computer science focuses more on programming, and there are no enrolment caps. Computer engineering, on the other hand, has enrollment caps and is a much broader subject area as it covers more topics. For those considering computer science or computer engineering, Kathryn recommended engineering first for its range of information. Others wondered what they could do now to prepare themselves for the future, especially, since many of us are unsure about what we want to do when we grow up. In answer to this question, Kathryn has three suggestions: join activities you are interested in; apply for everything (contests, awards, and scholarships); and, when the opportunity is given, take the right courses.
In closing, Kathryn told us: “Keep your eyes and ears open,” because you never know what opportunities will arise!
Balmoral Hall School
630 Westminster Ave. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3C 3S1
Tel: (204) 784-1600 | Fax: (204) 774-5534 | info@balmoralhall.ca
Charitable Registration No. 12994 3932 RR0001
Tel: (204) 784-1600 | Fax: (204) 774-5534 | info@balmoralhall.ca
Charitable Registration No. 12994 3932 RR0001
Our mission at Balmoral Hall School is to inspire girls’ imagination and the courage to excel, to reach, to lead, to care.
We are a nondenominational independent day and boarding school, educating students from Junior Nursery to Grade 12.
