Dallas Software Engineer Seeks To Build Knowledge
Hector Fontanez is at the forefront of technology. He is a software engineer for OGRE Systems in Dallas. He has worked as an electronic warfare systems technician for the United States Army, and other prestigious companies like Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology from DeVry University.
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"I had aspirations to obtain a doctoral degree in Software Engineering or Computer Sciences. I was accepted to the Doctor of Engineering program at Southern Methodist University, and I started immediately after obtaining my master's degree. I took one class towards the doctorate, but because I was working full-time as well as teaching part-time at Texas Wesleyan University, the work demands became too great and I had to stop attending classes. Now, that I am not teaching, I am considering resuming my doctoral studies."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"Don't over think it. The prospect of obtaining a graduate degree might seem overwhelming, but it is not much more difficult than obtaining a bachelor's degree. There are many different ways to obtain a degree that are tailored for the working professional. I obtained my master's by attending Saturday classes. I was done in two and a half years. Today's job market is very competitive, and a better education could give you a competitive advantage over other potential candidates when applying for a job, or when being considered for a promotion."
What was the biggest challenge you faced when pursuing your master's degree?
"The biggest challenge I faced was balancing family life, work, and studies. There were occasions where I had to miss a family gathering because of my classes. Sometimes I went to bed very late at night because I had to finish assignments. I still had to go get up and go to work in the morning. Because of the sacrifice, graduation day had a very special meaning for me."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
"The biggest reward was having the opportunity to teach at the college level; which was something I always wanted to do. Also, the sense of accomplishment you get can't be easily explained. I have my diploma at the office. I look at it every single day. It is a great feeling being reminded of the sacrifices made and the doors that were opened because of it."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com