Pablo Martinez

Major: Computer Science

Describe your current job role:

I am a front end developer. I pretty much get a website design given to me, and it is my job to make the design come to life. I get to make it into a cool website that people can interact with.

What professional experience(s) did you have prior to your current job role?

I worked as a front end developer for a big company called Meredith. They do some big magazines like Better Homes and Gardens, Martha Stewart Weddings, Parents and others. I also did some freelance work previous to that.

What do you know now that you wish you had known about being a working professional?

Networking is really important.

"...the biggest thing not to forget: trust God and pray."

How did PBA prepare you for the world of work?

As a computer science major, my professors taught me to research and look for answers to coding questions on my own. This has become a very important skill to have.

What advice would you give to current PBA students and/or young alumni who are about to start their first professional full-time job?

Don't overlook networking. Also, if you are in the software market, always make sure you keep learning. There are so many new cool technologies releasing all the time and they're always a plus when looking for a job. However, the biggest thing not to forget: trust God and pray. He'll come through.

Have you been mentored by anyone in your professional field since entering the workforce? If so, what impact has that had on you?

I have been blessed to work with developers who have been in the working field longer than I have, and they have been nice enough to teach and explain new technologies and best practices to me. Their help has been essential to help me grow in my field. It's great to work with people that know more than you. Definitely do not take it for granted if given the opportunity and try to learn as much as you can. 

Spotlight posted in October 2017. For current updates from Pablo, visit his LinkedIn page.