Erin Enzinger
Computer and Information Technology
System Support Representative at Indiana University
Describe your potential job duties
I have been working for Indiana University part-time since October 2022, but started this full-time position in June 2024. My job responsibilities include system administration, network administration, telephony, and server administration.
In what ways did the Polytechnic and/or Purdue help make you uniquely qualified for your new job?
Purdue Polytechnic Columbus made me uniquely qualified for my new job by providing many of the hands-on skills I use every day. By taking server and database administration classes, I was able to build a foundation in real industry applications including a variety of server environments, cybersecurity fundamentals, database implementations, and working with groups remotely and on campus. I gained valuable background knowledge on the technical and business aspects of IT that I was able to apply in real-life scenarios.
How has the college or someone in the college helped you achieve your goals?
Professor Casner has helped me achieve my goals by providing opportunities inside the classroom to grow in knowledge and outside of the classroom to work with the community and share the skills I have been able to build in her classes. Professor Casner goes the extra mile to prepare students, no matter the area of study, for the workforce. She has inspired me to continue to work in higher education by embodying the best aspects of it.
What specific classes helped prepare you for your new job?
The most influential courses that helped me prepare for my current job were UNIX/Linux Administration, Windows Administration, Advanced Analysis and Design, Database Programming, Information Technology Architectures, Enterprise Data Management, Cybersecurity Fundamentals II, Database Administration, and Technical writing.
If you had a favorite class, project, experience, or professor, what/who was it, and why?
My favorite classes were working with Professor Casner and Professor Swanson on campus (or in a hybrid environment). I enjoyed working collaboratively with other students when possible. Professor Casner and Professor Swanson as well as all of the faculty on the Columbus campus truly want to see success in students, and push for us to do our best in classwork to prepare us for the workforce. Starting out with less experience in programming and IT with most of the other students I saw in my classes, and more often than not the only woman in the group, Professor Casner and Professor Swanson both encouraged me to come out of my shell, be a leader, and speak up when I have an idea or a solution to a problem.
Purdue Polytechnic Columbus gave me hands-on experience in areas like server environments, cybersecurity and database implementation. The support from professors like Melissa Casner and Dewey Swanson helped build my confidence and skills, especially as someone starting with less experience. Their encouragement pushed me to lead, collaborate and find my voice in IT."