I first crossed paths with the idea of majoring in Information Science while pursuing my associate's degree in Computer Science and Technologies at Montgomery College (MC). It was during this immersive experience that I encountered various computer science and engineering courses, which ignited a spark of curiosity within me, propelling me towards the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree that harmoniously blended different facets of information technology.

My academic journey eventually led me to the distinguished program in Information Science offered by the University of Maryland College Park (UMD) at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG). One of the driving forces behind my decision to enroll in courses at the USG campus was the small class sizes, which provides a more intimate and nurturing college atmosphere. This educational setting provided more opportunities for me to ask questions freely during lectures and receive invaluable feedback from my professors. Within my program, I've had the privilege of engaging in captivating projects, often involving the intricacies of data management, information retrieval, and cutting-edge technologies. Collaborating closely with dedicated faculty and teaching assistants, I feel I've honed my skills and navigated the ever-evolving landscape of information technology.

Beyond the classroom, I have become an integral part of UMD’s Terrapins Hockey Club on the main campus. I am president of the club and play on the team, which has taught lots of valuable life lessons through the camaraderie of sportsmanship and management. Furthermore, I enthusiastically participated in hackathon events at USG, which perfectly complemented my passion for Information Science and allowed me to delve into the world of coding, problem-solving, and innovation. USG's vibrant social scene has played a pivotal role in shaping my university experience as well. The hackathon events themselves were hubs of creativity and camaraderie, where I had the privilege of collaborating with students from diverse majors and backgrounds. These interactions have been instrumental in broadening my network and forging connections that transcend the boundaries of our respective fields.

As I approach my graduation in the Spring of 2024, I am excited for my upcoming career path. Upon completing my degree, I plan to enter the finance sector as a data analyst. My educational journey has equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in this field. I look forward to applying my expertise to contribute to the dynamic world of finance and data analysis. While I'm enthusiastic about this path, I also have long-term aspirations to further my education in machine learning and artificial intelligence, in my ongoing quest for innovation and excellence within the information science domain.

Within my program, I've had the privilege of engaging in captivating projects, often involving the intricacies of data management, information retrieval, and cutting-edge technologies. Collaborating closely with dedicated faculty and teaching assistants, I feel I've honed my skills and navigated the ever-evolving landscape of information technology.
Matthew Krivitskiy