Student Profile: Brandon Brisbon
Brandon Brisbon, a senior from Stafford, Va., is the president of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) for the 2008-09 school year. The 21-year-old student will graduate from Virginia Tech in May 2009 with a degree in computer engineering. Brisbon holds two undergraduate research positions while working for University Unions and Student Activities. In between classes and other activities, Brisbon says he enjoys watching movies and hanging out with friends.
In his own words:
Why did you choose to attend Virginia Tech?
I was looking for a school that would put me in the best position possible when I graduated. Virginia Tech’s reputation is [well-known] among companies, so Virginia Tech was the best school for placing me in a job right after graduation.
Why did you choose to major in computer engineering?
I came into Virginia Tech as an aerospace engineering major, because I had always been really good with computers and always loved planes. I thought I might work with computers on airplanes, but then I took physics and decided it was not for me. Soon after, I switched to computer engineering. The programming aspect is what really interested me the most.
What do you hope to gain from your courses in this field?
Computer engineering has taught me about the interaction of software and hardware on lower and higher levels. Writing software for today’s systems requires that it interacts with hardware.
What's your favorite thing about Virginia Tech?
The people – Virginia Tech has taught me to be a much more sociable, more open person to a lot of different kinds of people. I will take with me the interactions with people here.
How would you describe your Virginia Tech experience thus far?
My experience has been challenging, yet rewarding.
What are your plans once you graduate?
I plan to go out and work. After working for about a year, I plan to go into a master’s program, continue to gain some corporate experience, and possibly start my own business down the road.
How do you balance extracurricular activities with school work?
Balance comes from time management. Typically I look at the bigger picture. Most students take it day by day, but I look at everything I have to do and make it all fit in the time I have. I plan things according to how much time it will take and make good use of my time so that nothing is wasted.
How has your involvement with campus activities contributed to your overall college experience?
My participation in NSBE has given me valuable leadership experience, while at the same time developing organization and networking skills.
What is the most rewarding about your extracurricular activities?
It is a break from the regular schoolwork that you’re doing while also being halfway professional. You also have a chance to interact with your friends at the same time, giving you the best of both worlds.
What advice can you offer first-year students?
Swallow your pride, buckle down, and get to work. You may have been the top of your class before coming to Virginia Tech, but when put against other high achievers, you’re just another student starting from the bottom. Proper studying and time management will take you far.