Navigating the Tech Universe and Why I Earned a Computer Science Degree  

I’ve come a long way from my humble beginnings in a small village in Pakistan to understanding the intricate realms of computer science at Crown Steel, Saudi Arabia as a Network Administrator. How did I get here? Well, the last few years have shaped my career and redefined my understanding of technology. My story is filled with curiosity, learning, and the relentless pursuit of passion. I’m excited to share it with you.    

The Rustic Dreamer 

So, let’s start with my early life. Sehna Wali, my humble village, nestled in the heart of Pakistan is where it all started. I grew up amidst serene landscapes that shaped my creativity. My interest in technology, however, was kindled by my amazing mother. I found myself dismantling gadgets and delving into the mysteries of simple codes as a very young boy. I dreamed of the extraordinary feats technology could achieve, and my mom became my partner in all these tech adventures.  

The ability to communicate across vast distances, the power to solve complex problems with a few lines of code – everything about tech enchanted me.  

Saudi Arabia and Stumbling Upon UoPeople  

Driven by dreams and the pursuit of opportunities, I found myself in Saudi Arabia as a young man. I knew my village couldn’t provide me with a platform to live my dreams. The move, therefore, was inevitable. Saudi made me realize that dreams and passion weren’t going to suffice. I lacked the formal education needed to turn my dreams into reality. A college degree seemed like the missing piece of the puzzle that could unlock the doors to a future in technology. However, traditional in-person classes didn’t align with my vision. I yearned for flexibility, an education that could seamlessly fit into the rhythm of my life. And that’s when I stumbled upon University of the People.  

The promise of quality education, flexibility in learning, and the affordability factor made it an ideal choice. It was not just an educational institution; it became my gateway to the tech universe. 

The beauty of UoPeople lies not just in the syllabus but in the community it fosters. The diversity of students, each with their unique background and experiences, added layers to my learning. The virtual classrooms became a space where ideas flowed freely, transcending geographical boundaries. It wasn’t just about textbooks and assignments; it was about engaging in conversations that expanded my horizons. 

My journey at UoPeople was marked by a commitment to learning that went beyond the academic requirements. The flexibility of online education allowed me to delve deeper into the subjects that fascinated me. Late-night coding sessions and collaborative projects with peers from different corners of the globe were the building blocks of my tech odyssey. 

The Computer Science Program and My Deep Dive into Tech 

I had absolute fun finishing my computer science bachelor’s degree at UoPeople. Concepts that might bewilder others seemed to dance effortlessly in my mind. It was during this time that I started crafting my tech diary—a comprehensive notebook documenting every challenge and every triumphant ‘aha’ moment. 

I honed my skills through hard work, dedication, and the right educational platform. UoPeople became the forge where my tech skills were tempered, and my problem-solving abilities were sharpened. It wasn’t just about earning a degree; it was about acquiring the skills that would set me apart in the competitive tech landscape. 

The collaborative nature of UoPeople’s learning environment was a game-changer. Group projects weren’t just assignments; they were windows into diverse perspectives. Collaborating with peers from different cultures and backgrounds wasn’t just about completing tasks; it was about enriching my understanding of how technology transcends borders. 

UoPeople to Crown Steel: A Seamless Transition 

With my degree in hand, I felt more confident to start the professional journey. I decided to apply to Crown Steel, Saudi Arabia, and got accepted as a network administrator. The transition from college life to the corporate realm was seamless. UoPeople had not only granted me a degree; it gave me skills, adaptability, and a keen problem-solving acumen. 

The tech landscape at Crown Steel became a playground for my curiosity. The theories and algorithms that once existed in the realm of academia were now practical tools for configuring and maintaining complex systems. The transition from academia to the corporate sphere was not a leap; it was a stride guided by the knowledge and skills instilled in me via my CS program. 

As I navigated the world of servers, networks, and systems, I realized that UoPeople had nurtured an attitude of adaptability. The ever-evolving nature of technology was not a challenge, but an exciting terrain to explore. My role as a Network Administrator was not just a job; it was a continuation of the odyssey that began in that small village. 

The ability to configure and maintain complex systems has made me an invaluable asset in the tech universe at Crown Steel. 

The daily challenges are not just hurdles. Each issue addressed, and every system configured is a testament to the practical applicability of the education I’ve received at UoPeople.  

Where will I go from here? My journey is far from over. I envision myself exploring emerging technologies, contributing to innovation, and inspiring the next generation of tech enthusiasts. The tech landscape is ever-evolving, and I am eager to see where my curiosity takes me next. 

I would like to leave you with my motto, in the hope that it will inspire others like me, all over the world.  

The journey is not just about reaching the destination; it’s about evolving with every step, adapting to new challenges, and embracing the genius within. 

About the Author  

Umar Imtiaz currently serves as a Network Administrator at Crown Steel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In his role, he oversees the configuration and maintenance of complex systems, turning theories and algorithms into practical tools. He credits his success to a combination of hard work, dedication, and the adaptable mindset instilled in him by his education and experiences. When not working or upskilling, he likes to spend time farming quietly in his native land. In Saudi Arabia, he spends his leisure time doing gym workouts, volunteering, traveling, and gardening.