Name: Ian Carlin; Institution: University of Cincinnati; Program: Department of Energy Scholars Program; Education Level: Undergraduate Student
October 15, 2024
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Growing up in North Royalton, Ohio, Ian Carlin developed a love for computer science. “Ever since I was a kid, I would always be on a computer, whether it was for playing or learning,” he said. “They fascinated me on every level, and when I noticed such high demand for them in the future, I figured that I would find a job that would allow me to be around them for the rest of my life.”
From June until August 2019, Carlin fulfilled his wish by participating in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Scholars Program. The DOE Scholars Program is designed to provide opportunities and attract talented undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates, to appointments that are carefully designed to help prepare participants toward the full range of entry and mid-level research, technical and professional positions within DOE and organizations that support the DOE mission.
Everyone there gave me a helping hand precisely when it was needed. The people I participated with loved what they were doing and truly understood what they were contributing to.
As a third-year student at the University of Cincinnati studying IT cybersecurity, Carlin considered the DOE Scholars Program an amazing opportunity to advance his cybersecurity education while reinforcing his communication and organizational learning skills. “I was able to develop skills that will help me with whatever I do or wherever I go throughout my life,” he said. “A typical day at my appointment would involve reimaging personal computers (PCs), repairing and replacing damaged equipment such as hard drives and iPhone screens as well as assisting other team members with anything they needed.”
With his rewarding experience in the DOE Scholars Program behind him, Carlin recommended the program to others who wish to learn what a real laboratory environment is like. “I learned a lot about cybersecurity and networking, and now I hope to earn a position that allows me to continue studying many different areas of technology,” he said.