1. Rachel Anne McDonald

2. B.S. Computer Science Graduate
Kendra Thurmond
B.S. Computer Science Graduate

3. Background Took Programming I and A.P. Computer Science in high school
Realized immediately that she wanted to major in Computer Science in college
Knew that she wanted to get a job with the United States Department of Defense

4. Time at Mercer
Challenges in programming assignments carried over to her career
Late nights in the 24-hour computer lab taught her valuable lessons about procrastination
Assignments taught her the importance of diligence and hard work

5. Professors at Mercer
Exhibited great enthusiasm for teaching, which made her enthusiastic to learn
Always “[created] a fun learning environment” and “knew the material and… taught it well”
Owed much of her analytic thinking abilities to her professors

6. How Mercer Helps You Didn’t teach her what to think, but how to think
Helped her to develop a learning style unique to herself
The rigor of the department had a “tremendous impact” on her successes in her career

7. Advice for Freshmen
“The course plan is rigorous, you will have to work hard, but when it's all said and done you will be well prepared for beginning a career in Computer Science. Additionally, you will walk away with good memories, great friends, and confidence in your abilities gained over the course of four wonderful years!”