The Computer Systems Association (CSA) is a new registered student organization (RSO) that aims to provide students with a variety of exciting experiences in the realm of technology.
One purpose of the club is to fill the void left when the Computer Systems Technology (CST) program lost its previous RSO, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), after IEEE moved to Illinois State’s new College of Engineering. But more than that, Faculty Advisor Heba Elgazzar and CSA President Alex Ngo are working to give the nascent organization an identity all its own.
The CSA meets every Tuesday at 4 p.m. in Turner Hall room 173 with plans to address a wide variety of topics.
“We are looking to have more hands-on activities for students in these meetings and invite faculty from different departments as well as our own so that students can learn from them,” said Dr. Elgazzar.
Elgazzar plans to have students who have conducted research present their findings, offering experience in presenting and to inspire listeners without research experience. She is also planning to invite professionals from related industries to speak about potential internships.
Ngo wants people to know that CSA is an inclusive and low-commitment experience.
“We are open for any students, even if they’re not part of the CST program or even the Department of Technology. If they want to come by and learn a little, they’re free to visit. You don’t have to be a member,” Ngo said.
Satisfying students’ need for connection is another important goal for RSO members, along with giving students the chance to develop networking and presentation skills.
“We didn’t have this kind of community before to learn from each other and share knowledge beyond the classroom,” Elgazzar said.
Ngo is looking forward to bonding with other students and finding common ground with those studying different areas of technology expertise than his own.
CSA is planning to host other unique events, including a coding competition or a debate event about the merits and drawbacks of different computer operating systems. A new event will allow students to make programmable, light-up jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween. Group organizers welcome input from CSA participants on what they might like to see added to the roster of activities.
