I had the pleasure of interviewing Mark Melkumyan who is a Senior at Drexel University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Game Programming and a minor in Animation and Visual Effects. Melkumyan is anticipated to graduate this upcoming June. I was fortunate enough to gain this interview with Melkumyan being that Computer Science Majors are likely to have a different perspective than the communication majors I am familiar with.

I posed Melkumyan with the question of what is the most valuable that he has learned in college thus far. He stated that, “The most valuable lesson I learned is to know how much work load you can handle. Don’t be afraid to drop a class or a club if you feel like you’re overwhelmed. You’ll do better in your other classes, and you’ll be less likely to burn yourself out.” Melkumyan gives insightful advice by revealing that as individuals we must know our own limits. Speaking from personal experience now that I am in the final lap, it is extremely easy to burn yourself out quickly at an institution like Drexel. If I could emphasize Melkumyans advice to incoming students over and over again, I would.

I also asked Melkumyan if he has learned more inside or outside of the classroom during his college career. Contrary to what I assumed Melkumyan would say that he has learned more outside of the classroom. He says, “I’m a very hands-on learner which means listening to a professor or watching a PowerPoint isn’t my best way of learning.” He emphasized that he has learned significantly through projects and co-op opportunities.

To conclude the interview, Melkumyan stated that he would tell incoming individuals to take note of due dates and plan everything ahead. As an almost Drexel Grad, it is imperative that you are planning out every inch of your schedule if you want to be successful.  I wish Melkumyan the best of luck in all his future endeavors!