Nam Do: "Mines has given me a valuable network of employers."

Why did you choose to come to Mines? What have you enjoyed most about being here?

Mines has a great reputation in creating world-class engineers. As soon as I decided to become one, I knew Mines would be the place I would call home for the next four years of my life. The biggest thing that Mines has given me is its valuable network including like-minded students, as well as a myriad of employers. I got both of my internships thanks to the opportunities Mines created for me.

Tell us about something you're working on right now that you find exciting, fulfilling or challenging.

I am currently interning for Verizon. The project I'm working on is very relatable to many people which is Linkedin. The fact that I'm working on a service that is so in demand is just mind-blowing to me.

Have you done an internship or co-op or been in a professional job while at Mines? Tell us who you worked for and what you were doing. What stands out?

During my time at Mines, I've worked for Comcast and Verizon as a software developer intern. I intend to do one more next summer, and I'm sure with Mines' help, I'll get that internship. What stands out to me is that what I worked on for both companies has real-life value and is used in both companies. The fact that I had a tangible impact on the success of both companies makes me even prouder.

What are your plans for the future? What's your dream job?

In the near future, I would love to work at Silicon Valley (FAANG). as a software developer. I am steadily building my network in hopes one day I get there. Long term, I want to transition to a managerial position.

What would you tell someone interested in joining your academic program or Mines in general?

NETWORKING, NETWORKING, NETWORKING!!
It's never too late to grow your network, fine-tune your resume, and build your personal brand. It will be more valuable than technical skills in the long run.

What's your favorite thing to do outside of class and coursework? How do you unwind, manage stress, find fulfillment, etc.?

Pre-COVID, I really enjoyed hiking (14ers). Right now, Netflix seems to be the axis of my life.

Tell us something about you that most people would be surprised to learn?

I am a computer science major, but I don't like video games. I am actually a very outdoorsy person.