Nearly 90 high school students and seven teachers gathered in the Polsky Building at 外网天堂 (UA) on Oct. 17, 2025, for Computing Professions Visit Day. The event introduced participants to the rapidly evolving world of computing while highlighting UA's commitment to hands-on learning and discovery.
Students represented Buckeye Career Center, Ellet Community Learning Center, Medina County Career Center, RG Drage Career Technical Center and North High School. Through five interactive learning stations, they explored topics ranging from software development and cybersecurity to networking, artificial intelligence and digital forensics — gaining firsthand experience with the technologies shaping today’s world.
Station 1: Software Development
Hosted by Dr. Zarreen Farooqi, participants created graphics and small applications using Visual Studio and Python scripting, discovering how coding transforms ideas into interactive designs using industry-standard tools.
Station 2: Cybersecurity
Hosted by Dr. Nadhem Ebrahim, students explored website and data-security breaches, learning how vulnerabilities are identified and mitigated — an eye-opening introduction to the importance of protecting digital systems.
Station 3: Networking
Hosted by Dr. Mahmood Safaei and Professor Janet Kropff, attendees built an Internet-of-Things (IoT) prototype using a breadboard, microcontroller and programmable buttons to see how connected devices communicate within smart systems.
Station 4: Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Hosted by Ashton Orosa, guided by Dr. Yalin Dong, participants operated “Robot Bonbon,” exploring how AI and machine learning enable robots to learn and respond through real-time feedback.
Station 5: Cyber Forensics
Hosted by Professor Stanley Smith, students used the Musson ICS Testbed to trace simulated cyber threats and uncover digital clues — mirroring real-world investigative techniques in a safe educational setting.
Computing Professions Visit Day was developed and coordinated by a dedicated College of Engineering and Polymer Science team, including Jordan Brlan, associate director of recruitment and retention; Professor Janet Kropff, Department of Computer Science; and Sarah Hoge, director of advising services. Their efforts were supported by 14 faculty, staff and student volunteers across the College.
“This visit day reflects our ongoing commitment to experiential learning and early engagement,” said Kropff. “By welcoming high school students into our labs, we aim to demystify complex topics and spark lasting interest in computing.”
Hoge added, “We’re very grateful to Kelly Herold, senior director of educational outreach, for helping connect us with schools interested in computer and information systems programs.”
Highlighting the value of collaboration, Brlan noted, “It truly takes a team to make an event like Computing Professions Day successful. With enthusiasm running high, we look forward to strengthening our partnerships with local high schools and communities.”
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