Student Highlight: Luis Merino
- published: 2018/09/24
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Full Name: Luis Angel Merino Lopez
UNO Degree(s): IT Innovation
Hometown/State/Country: Guerrero, Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Q: How were you first introduced to UNO?
I decided to attend UNO because of the IT Innovation major. In high school I participated in the IT Innovation Cup that UNO hosts, and the major really caught my interest. I thought that it was the perfect major for me and UNO is the only university that offers this major. I knew this major would lead me in the right direction for my future plans.
Q: IT Innovation is such a new degree! Tell us a little bit about why you picked it as your major.
I chose IT Innovation because the major helps students create a product that can be turned into a business. We are guided through the process of how to create an innovative product that solves a problem or need. Additionally, we are given the resources to make an entire business around the product. Another reason I chose this major is because of the freedom students are given to explore various courses offered here at UNO. Students are able to choose courses they want to take to help them with their projects.
Q: What does IT Innovation mean to you?
The IT Innovation major means freedom to pursue my own career. This major allows me to choose my own path. It also enables me to create something that has value, innovation, and solves a real world problem. Not only does it allow me to innovate in whatever subject I choose, but it also lets me collaborate with others in building truly innovative solutions.
Q: What class did you love the most, and did you have a professor that you learned a lot from?
A class that really I loved was Applied IT Innovation. I was able to work with a team to solve a problem through innovation. As a team we decided what problem we wanted to address. I learned what it takes to go from idea to an actual working implementation. It was hard work but this class really painted a clear picture of how innovation works. A professor that I learned a lot from is Dr. Douglas Derrick. I have had Dr. Derrick for 3 classes so far and each time I learn a lot from him. The most important thing that I've learned from him is to always be mindful. Dr. Derrick has also emphasized collaboration and communication which has been beneficial to all of his students. Additionally, Dr. Derrick is always there to listen and give advice to his students, he truly wants to see his students succeed!
Q: What do you do for fun in your free time?
During my freetime I enjoy being out in nature. I love hiking in Fontenelle Forest, there's always something new to explore there. I also love traveling. I'm usually in a different state during the summer months, exploring new cities. I also really enjoy music production. If I'm not outside or at school I'll be working on music at home. And finally I just love chilling out and disconnecting from technology. It's nice to just sit there and read a book or do nothing.
I chose this major is because of the freedom students are given to explore various courses offered here at UNO. Students are able to choose courses they want to take to help them with their projects.
Q: IT Innovation is such a new degree! Tell us a little bit about why you picked it as your major.
I chose IT Innovation because the major helps students create a product that can be turned into a business. We are guided through the process of how to create an innovative product that solves a problem or need. Additionally, we are given the resources to make an entire business around the product. Another reason I chose this major is because of the freedom students are given to explore various courses offered here at UNO. Students are able to choose courses they want to take to help them with their projects.
Q: What does IT Innovation mean to you?
The IT Innovation major means freedom to pursue my own career. This major allows me to choose my own path. It also enables me to create something that has value, innovation, and solves a real world problem. Not only does it allow me to innovate in whatever subject I choose, but it also lets me collaborate with others in building truly innovative solutions.
Q: What class did you love the most, and did you have a professor that you learned a lot from?
A class that really I loved was Applied IT Innovation. I was able to work with a team to solve a problem through innovation. As a team we decided what problem we wanted to address. I learned what it takes to go from idea to an actual working implementation. It was hard work but this class really painted a clear picture of how innovation works. A professor that I learned a lot from is Dr. Douglas Derrick. I have had Dr. Derrick for 3 classes so far and each time I learn a lot from him. The most important thing that I've learned from him is to always be mindful. Dr. Derrick has also emphasized collaboration and communication which has been beneficial to all of his students. Additionally, Dr. Derrick is always there to listen and give advice to his students, he truly wants to see his students succeed!
Q: What do you do for fun in your free time?
During my freetime I enjoy being out in nature. I love hiking in Fontenelle Forest, there's always something new to explore there. I also love traveling. I'm usually in a different state during the summer months, exploring new cities. I also really enjoy music production. If I'm not outside or at school I'll be working on music at home. And finally I just love chilling out and disconnecting from technology. It's nice to just sit there and read a book or do nothing.