DoIT Student Digital Stories: Nick Benner

Follow Nicholas Benner's journey from AV specialist to graduating with a degree in Computer Science at UMBC. Discover how his time at the Division of Information Technology (DoIT) shaped his communication skills and future career aspirations.

Growing Through Experience at UMBC: Nicholas Benner's Journey in IT

Navigating the academic landscape while balancing a job can be a daunting task for many students. Nicholas Benner, a senior at UMBC, has managed to do just that, combining his studies in computer science with hands-on experience in the university’s Division of Information Technology. His video delves into his journey, the skills he has acquired, and the impact his work experience has had on his future prospects.

A Glimpse into Nicholas's Academic Path

As a computer science major at UMBC, Nicholas Benner's academic focus is on mastering the intricacies of software, hardware, and the principles underlying computing technologies. His journey in AV—a crucial segment of IT dedicated to audio-visual technology—complements his academic endeavors, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Immersing in the Division of Information Technology

The Beginning: A Step into AV

Nicholas’s foray into DoIT began with a role as an AV Specialist I, a help desk position tailored to assist professors with real-time issues in their classrooms. This role provided him with the foundational knowledge and experience necessary for effective communication and troubleshooting within an academic setting. 

Transitioning to the Install Team

His dedication and skills soon led to an invitation from Danielle, a supervisor in the AV unit, to join the install team. Stepping into this new role, Nicholas's responsibilities expanded to include the installation of projectors and speakers in classrooms. This transition not only broadened his technical skills but also enhanced his understanding of AV systems on a broader scale.

Cultivating Valuable Skills

Enhanced Communication and Teamwork

Working in DoIT significantly boosted Nicholas's ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and superiors alike. This environment emphasized trust-building within teams and the importance of cooperative effort. Skills in teamwork are essential in most professional settings, and Nicholas is confident these experiences will aid him in his future career.

Real-World Industry Insight

One of the standout experiences during Nicholas's tenure was the Midpoint Industry Day. Nicholas and his AV colleagues were given the opportunity to travel to the Midpoint offices in Columbia. This visit offered them a view of their work's impact on a larger, industry-wide scale, augmenting their understanding of AV operations beyond the campus.

Advice for New DoIT Employees

Communication is Key

Nicholas emphasizes the importance of asking questions and communicating effectively with supervisors. In a field as dynamic as IT, understanding every detail and ensuring clarity in communication can be critical to individual and collective success.

Embrace the Experience and Have Fun

Being passionate and enjoying the work are equally vital. Nicholas encourages new employees to find joy in their tasks, as it can significantly enhance their work experience and productivity.

Looking to the Future

With graduation in sight, Nicholas is considering several pathways for the future. His immediate goal is to secure a full-time job in AV or pursue further certifications or internships that will bolster his qualifications. These strategic steps are aimed at enriching his professional portfolio, making him a competitive candidate in the IT field.

Nick will be graduating in May 2025 from UMBC, with a BS in Computer Science. Congratulations Nick!

Watch his complete video here!

The first draft of the above announcement was generated using GenAI and edited by the Division of Information Technology Communications and IT teams.