Computer programmer lauds two-year degree

How does a two-year degree from Texas State Texas College Waco compare to a similar degree from a four-year university?

There is no comparison, according to Computer Science Technology student Mark A. Pfeif, who is employed as a math tutor on campus while working toward an Associate of Applied Science degree with a major in Business Applications Programming. He is optimistic that his TSTC diploma will give him an advantage in the employment marketplace ahead of graduating competitors from four-year universities. It’s not a surprising conclusion given the challenges Pfeif encountered before he became a non-traditional student en route to earning a Rising Star Award.

Pfeif reached the conclusion about diploma power when he asked an acquaintance – a computer science graduate from a four-year university – for assistance while studying a computer program for an exam.

“He gathered a bunch of his old notes and tried to explain a few concepts to me, but I got the strong impression that his comprehension of the programming language was not too solid,” Pfeif recalled.

“It occurred to me then that even though TSTC will give me a two-year degree that I probably will be better prepared for the work force than my counterparts who carry four-year degrees. Some people may not think that a two-year degree from a state-funded college is as good as one received from a four-year school.

“I would have to agree with them; the TSTC degree probably is better, and I will not be in debt for the rest of my life due to high tuition costs.”

The revelation did not happen overnight, however. The pathway of life slowly led Pfeif to Waco, where he receives support from his instructors.

A 1984 graduate of East Syracuse-Minoa High School in Kirkville, N.Y., he wanted to pursue a computer programming career, but his father told him that computers would not be a long-term success and persuaded him to enlist in the Marine Corps for technical training in electronics. However, Pfeif’s two younger brothers furthered their education and gained employment in computer programming.

Eventually, he bought a PC and began to tinker with it. His fascination for understanding how devices function turned into self-education with the computer. A friend who worked as a professional computer programmer contributed to his training and Pfeif began to read books to expand his programming abilities.

A work-related shoulder injury required surgery and he underwent rehabilitation, but then came his military discharge and unemployment. His youngest brother prodded him to pursue the passion for a new career in the computer field and Pfeif met a Texas Workforce Commission employee, who introduced him to the Workforce Investment Act to provide resources for higher education.

“I came to TSTC Waco and spoke with Gary Page. I was not sure if I wanted to do networking, computer repair or programming, but I realized after talking with Mr. Page that programming was where it was at for me. When I finally signed the enrollment papers, I was amazed. At the age of 42, I was finally going to college,” he said.

Enrolling in August 2009 was a turning point in his life after sleepless nights watching television and worrying about finding a job. He plans to graduate in August 2011 and become a database administrator. “I am so glad to be a student at this college,” he added. “I am finally getting the opportunity to do what I always really wanted to do, and I love it.”

Pfeif praised math instructor Dr. Gary Sigler and computer science instructor Suzie Watkins for their advice and building his self-confidence.

“They have shown a great interest in my career and personal success,” he explained. “Dr. Sigler helped me to become a student math tutor and he has told me that I ‘have all the tools to accomplish great things.’ On some occasions, I told Ms. Watkins that I might not turn out to be a good computer programmer, but she has always pointed out my strengths and left me wondering why I ever doubted myself.”

Could the teaching bug bite Pfeif? Maybe he has learned how to teach from his teachers.

“In many ways my job as a math tutor is a teaching position. It is an enriching opportunity because no two students learn the same way. I have to hone my understanding of a topic to effectively communicate with them; I must look at the problem through their eyes and try to explain it to them in those terms,” he said.

“There is no greater feeling of accomplishment then when a student comes to me confused and frustrated, and after having spent time with me they walk away from the lab feeling hopeful.”

 

Computer Science Technology

Majoring in Business Applications Programming