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Computer Programming for Kids

© Debbie St. Germain

Do you like playing games on the internet? Have you ever wondered how these games were made or think; I wish I could make a game like that. You can! Contrary to what you may think, computer programming is not as difficult as many people think. Computer programming is a skill that anyone can learn. All you need is the desire and the patience to learn.

Recently I met a programmer named Tim Arnold, who was kind enough to do an interview. Tim has been programming for three years and through this interview you can learn more about what it takes to be a computer programmer and if it might be the right career choice for you.

Q:Tim, Could you please tell us about your educational background?

Tim: I went to the University of Rhode Island where I got a bachelors in math. I went on further to obtain a masters in physics at the University of Massachusetts. When I finished college I worked as a Design Engineer, building equipment for research labs. I did that for about six years.

Q:What interested you in computer programming?"

Tim: I have always been interested in programming, but never made the leap, because I was also interested in General Science in college. One day, I sat down with a programming book, started writing games, and I was hooked.

Q:How long did it take before you were skilled enough to gain employment?

Tim: It took about five months of training before I could really entertain employment in the gaming field.

Q:So you are working as a programmer now?

Tim: Yes, I am working as a programmer in New York City. I have worked on applications such as a form for T.V. Guide, but most of my work has been programming games for the internet. Recently I have been producing games for a game site called, Riddler. Disgrace is my favorite, it is one of the more addicting games on the web.

Q:Considering you switched careers, are you sorry you majored in science or did this background help to prepare you in the field of programming?

Tim: I am very happy with my decision. I find that programming is more challenging than most careers that I have encountered. Although I don't feel it is necessary for a programmer to have a background in any other science other than computer science, there have been exceptions. When building robots or working with complex graphical designs for games, I have had to rely on my previous mathematical knowledge, such as linear algebra and probability theory.

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