Arein Daralnakhla

Major: Computer Engineering
Minor: Computer Science

Why did you choose this area of study?

I chose to study computer engineering because I wanted to be at the forefront of technology and be a part of its development. Growing up, I noticed that technology was advancing faster than ever, and I wanted to learn both the hardware and software aspects of it. Additionally, I have a passion for art, which initially made it challenging for me to choose a career path. However, I realized the potential to merge my technical skills with my passion for art and design here at Case [Western Reserve], and that has led me to explore career opportunities that allow me to apply both sets of skills.

What are your plans after graduation?

My plans after graduation involve pursuing an Erasmus Mundus masters program that focuses on Extended Reality (XR) technologies. This program aligns perfectly with my passion for travel and interest in cutting-edge technologies. I'm excited about the opportunity to learn about different countries and how they are approaching these new technologies while also improving my technical skills.

Why did you choose CWRU?

When I was looking for universities to attend, I was drawn to CWRU because of its excellent reputation and strong programs, particularly in Computer Engineering. CWRU is known for its commitment to excellence in STEM fields, and I knew that attending this university would give me the best chance of achieving my academic and professional goals.

Additionally, I was impressed by CWRU's efforts to increase diversity and create a community for students who attended the United World Colleges (UWC). As someone who attended UWC Adriatic in Italy, I was thrilled to learn that there was a community of UWC alumni at CWRU. This made me feel like I would be able to find my place at the university and would be able to connect with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for learning and exploration.

What was your favorite class? And why?

Without a doubt, my favorite class was Introduction to Computer Game Design (ECSE290). This course was a turning point in my academic journey, as it provided me with an opportunity to merge my technical skills with my passion for art and design. Being an artist at heart, I found the class to be an ideal medium for me to explore my creativity and learn how to create engaging and interactive experiences for users. The course content was diverse and covered various aspects of game design, including programming, game mechanics, storytelling, and visual design. It challenged me to think critically, experiment with different design concepts, and apply the skills that I had learned in other courses.

Moreover, this course opened up a world of exciting career opportunities that I had never considered before. I was introduced to emerging technologies such as VR and AR and their potential applications in the game development field. The class also sparked my interest in exploring a career in game design and development, which I believe will never get boring due to the constant innovation and technological advancements in the industry. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this class, as it not only allowed me to tap into my creative side but also equipped me with practical skills that are highly sought after in today's job market.

What's your favorite thing about CWRU or your favorite memory?

As someone who has had a great experience at Case Western Reserve University, it's hard to choose just one favorite thing or memory. However, if I had to pick, I would say that my favorite thing about CWRU is definitely the community. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed by everyone around me, and I was able to make friends easily. Some of my favorite memories at CWRU involve spending time with these friends, whether it was hanging out in the dorms or exploring the city together. I also have fond memories of attending events on campus, such as concerts, plays, and guest lectures, which added to the vibrant and diverse atmosphere of the university. Overall, I feel grateful to be part of such a supportive and engaging community at CWRU.

What's a piece of advice/encouragement you'd like to share with CSE students?

I want to emphasize the importance of networking and building relationships with your professors, classmates, and industry professionals. This can lead to valuable opportunities such as internships, job offers, and mentorship. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for advice or help.

I also would encourage everyone to take advantage of the resources available at CWRU, such as tutoring, clubs, and extracurricular activities. These can enhance your learning experience and help you develop skills beyond just technical knowledge.

Lastly, I want to remind everyone to stay curious and keep learning. The field of computer science is constantly evolving, and it's important to stay up to date with new technologies and trends. Keep pushing yourself to learn and grow, and don't be afraid to take on new challenges.