The Computing Crossroads project seeks to interview people who haven’t taken a “traditional” computing career path, and publish short vignettes of their stories. We hope that these stories will help dismantle some pervasive, negative stereotypes about computing, and be a source of inspiration for many students that have an interest in the subject. We also believe that this may help promote a more equal, diverse and inclusive computing culture. The idea is to show students (or, anyone) that:

• studying computing does not necessarily “lock you in” to being a software developer, or other “traditional” computing careers; and
• not obtaining a “traditional” education/training in computing, doesn’t necessarily “lock you out” of computing careers.

We are interested in interviewing you if:

1. you have a career in computing (broadly defined) in academia, industry, or another sector, but did not come into computing “traditionally” (self-defined). Perhaps you are a computing academic but did a non-computing primary degree (anything from art to zoology). Perhaps you are a software engineer but you are self-taught. Maybe you had a non-computing career before you studied computing and started a computing career later in life, etc.  – OR –
2. you had a “traditional” computing training/background, but now are not in a computing career. Perhaps you did a BSc in computing but you are now a musician, or a lawyer, etc. Maybe you worked as a software developer for years but then became an artist, or a nurse, etc.

If you are interested in being interviewed, please complete the form below. We will get back to you with more information and move towards scheduling an interview with you. We will strive to interview everyone who volunteers but it might take some time. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch by email at brett.becker+crossroads.ucd.ie.

This project has an approved research ethics exemption from University College Dublin.

Volunteer Form