Groundwork

Weekly Report 1: 8/7 to 8/18

At this stage in ISM, Mr. Speice has taught about
professional branding. While I do not fully understand the
extent of how important it is, any opportunity to look more
favorable in the eyes of a prospective employer is something
worth considering. Since I am effectively a blank slate in
terms of experience, it would be prudent to establish myself
as an enthusiastic learner who is eager to move forward.
That way, despite only starting out, people will still be likely
to trust my work ethic and motivation. On top of that, having
a professional brand likely provides some extra flexibility in
career options. If I ever decide to change courses throughout
my career, a professional brand will project good qualities
regardless of the employer. However, in computer-science-
related fields, more emphasis is put on work experience and
projects than general impressions due to the dynamic and
growing nature of the industry. As long as I do not
demonstrate gross acts of incompetence, I should not have
issues with my branding affecting my employment
opportunities. That being said, I do not know a lot about the
software development industry, so it it important for me to
pay attention to everything that affects people's impressions
of me.