We asked iSchool Seniors to reflect back on their time at the iSchool before they graduate this weekend. Here’s our first blog of three featuring members of the iSchool’s Class of 2017.
Kwabena (Kobby) T. Tettey
Major: Information Management & Technology
Hometown: Accra, Ghana
Born to a banker and a translator of Ghanaian-descent, Kobby has lived in several African countries throughout his life. While completing a Bachelor’s of Science in Information Management & Technology from Syracuse University, Kobby’s passion for Web and User Interface Design became apparent, and his focus specializing in graphic design emerged. Besides designing, Kobby enjoys traveling and discovering new music.
Kwabena (Kobby) Tettey ’17
What was your initial reaction coming to the iSchool as a Freshman?
In all honesty, I had no set expectations coming into the iSchool as a Freshman. Unlike many domestic students, I did not get the opportunity to visit the campus before attending the school so I was kind of hoping I made the right decision. After sitting in my first IST 195 class with Professor Rubin and meeting other iSchoolers, I knew this was the place for me.
If you could describe the iSchool in one sentence, what would you say?
If you want to learn about various aspects of IT and how to apply those concepts in real-life situations, then the iSchool is the perfect place for you!
What are you doing after graduation?
I will be returning to the iSchool to pursue my Masters of Science in Information Management with a focus in Human-Computer Interaction.
Is this the future you always saw yourself in?
l have always been passionate about design and initially wanted to attend Syracuse University to study architecture. However, with recent innovations in technology, I started developing a keen interest in Web/UX Design. As a product designer, you can express your creativity while making use of your technical skills.
What is one thing you wish someone told you while at the iSchool?
Besides your core requirements, take classes that actually interest you AND are going to challenge you. Don’t waste your time learning things you’re already good at; learn something new!
What advice would you give to the incoming senior class?
Congratulations on making it this far! At this point, you probably have a few classes left to take. Really take the next semester to focus on your plans after graduation. If you plan to work full-time, start researching companies over the summer and attend the Fall Career Fair. If your plan is to pursue a Masters degree or an MBA, make a list of potential schools and APPLY EARLY. Or, if you have other plans, set some goals so you can actually achieve them and get something out of your last year!
“Make sure you get involved with student organizations that are of interest to you. Employers often look for students that are leaders in their community and this is the perfect way for you to develop your leadership skills.”
What advice would you give to the incoming freshman class?
Congratulations on getting into the iSchool! I hope you are excited to learn about technology and ways in which it can be used to improve society. Besides your academic work, make sure you get involved with student organizations that are of interest to you. Employers often look for students that are leaders in their community and this is the perfect way for you to develop your leadership skills. Also, don’t be scared to take some coding classes! The more technical you are, the more marketable you become to employers. Lastly, make some new friends and don’t forget to HAVE FUN.
What’s your favorite thing about the iSchool?
I love a lot of things about the iSchool but I would say the student immersion programs offered by the school are very unique. They allow you to immerse yourself in a completely new environment while learning about technology!
Kobby is graduating with an undergraduate degree in Information Management & Technology. Kobby also served as president of the Black and Latino Information Studies Support (BLISTS) student organization at the iSchool.
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