What:
For my In-depth project this year, I am going to be learning about computers. More specifically, the different components, operating systems, and the building processes that are involved with computers. By the end of 5 months in May, I want to become more comfortable and knowledgeable within the world of computers. In addition, I would also like to be able to build, from scratch, a computer and install an operating system in the most effective way. To learn more about computers, I will mostly be using my mentor, Lucas, as my main resource; however, there are a million and one videos on YouTube on this subject so sometimes I may pick up additional details from there as well.
Why:
I hope to learn this skill because many of my possible career paths I am interested in, which involve computers in some way. For example, the main career path I am pursuing is camera operating. Since cameras are a form of camera, knowing how they work is essential to producing a more vibrant image. Additionally, computers, such as the one I am building, are crucial in the post-production processes as footage and images from the cameras are edited on them. Having a functional and powerful computer is essential to make that happen. Furthermore, as a backup, I am interested in other career options in computer sciences, so knowing the parts of a computer and how they work together is basically mandatory.
When:
There are two main components of my In-depth project this year. One includes becoming more knowledgeable within the world of computers. A second is learning how to plan out, price, and build the entire computer from the ground up. These areas within computers will be learned throughout the entirety of my In-depth project experience this year. More specifically, I will be having a meeting with my mentor every second Sunday from January 23rd to May 22nd to grow my knowledge and experience within this field and plan out the next steps to be taken for my computer’s construction. This will all culminate into my final presentation on May 31st where I will be showing my knowledge and progress in the form of my completed computer build.
Who:
The professional that I have asked to mentor me for my In-Depth project this year is Lucas Angelozzi. Lucas is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences and one of the main courses that his postsecondary education will be built off is on the components within computers, and what materials are needed for them to operate. Prior to his steps towards a profession in computers, it was during quarantine where he grew a passion for building computers, and he built his first computer that summer. Since then, his knowledge has grown exponentially in this field.
How:
During my In-Depth project, the main skill that I am hoping to learn is how to build a computer. With that, comes many responsibilities and obligations to effectively build one. Firstly, I will be learning the different components of a computer as well as what their functions are. Secondly, I will learn different software options that can be downloaded on to computers. Thirdly, I will learn which components I will need in order to complete the tasks I will be doing on my built computer. Lastly, I will learn how to assemble the entire computer to have it function at an optimal level. Although my mentor, Lucas, will teach me everything he knows in these areas, we can only meet once every two weeks, as he is quite busy with his postsecondary education. So, if I ever need additional help, I can always access more information through the resources listed below.
- YouTube. I can watch videos on building computers and dive deeper into their functions to get more professional help.
- Blogs. I can look through many influencer’s blogs to see any advice they would have for beginners such as I.
- Other Professionals. I can look through some professional’s computer builds to find interesting designs; however, this would only be for inspiration as their builds use far more expensive computer components.
- “How to” Manuals. I can research select hardware and their manuals to get a sense of the construction process involved with their part.
- Instagram. I can look through other people’s computer build projects to see their design and hardware choices.
- Pinterest. I can do the same as Instagram except create folders to keep my ideas well organized.
What Else Is Needed:
The only other materials that I will need to complete this year’s In-Depth project is the different components that the computer will use to function. To afford all these parts, I will be making an effort to pick up even more shifts at my job to purchase these items as well as try and find some parts second-hand so they will be less costly.
Below is an example of a computer design that I would potentially like to replicate when building my own computer. My constructed computer, however, will likely not look extremely similar as I am on a tight budget.
Source: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/45/17/e3/4517e3323a5fa4abe49cf8a71527cd28.jpg
