(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Javier Nieto has worked at Texas State Technical College for five years. His role as department chair for the Computer Science program allows him to help students learn the intricate skills that will allow them to venture off into vital careers.
What do you enjoy about working with students?
My students are always giving me something new to learn. I have students with different backgrounds and ideas, and it always makes things so interesting. I try to get involved with different projects where we can engage in topics that show off their ideas, and it constantly gives me something new to think about.
What inspired you to get into higher education?
I always realized that in order to change the world, you have to teach something. Everything I learn, I like to share. When you share your knowledge with somebody, they share it with others as well. You create a network of learning, and it just grows. I am always inspired when my students reach out to me about their careers after TSTC. You get a feeling of accomplishment when you see your students become successful.
What advice would you give to students who are interested in pursuing computer science?
If you are curious about how something works, this is the right career for you. You need to be curious; you need to ask questions. Computer science is the art of solving problems.
Fall registration is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
