Software Engineer at Google. Ex-Expedia, Completed BTech from IIIT-Delhi 2022 in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics (with Honors). I teach Coding, Algorithms, Advanced Programming in OOPS

Find out more about Arka

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  Programming has been my primary focus since my time at IIITD, where I pursued a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering. During my studies, I became deeply interested in solving complex problems and which in turn translated into functions and working code. Courses in algorithms, data structures, and programming languages provided a strong foundation for my learning, but it was the practical projects and internships that sharpened my skills as a developer. Continuous learning and keeping up with industry trends have been essential in refining my skills and staying relevant in this ever evolving field.

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  My decision to teach comes from a fine mix of personal reasons to give back to the student/mentorship community. Throughout my professional/academic journey, I was fortunate enough to have mentors who not only imparted technical knowledge but also instilled a passion for learning and problem-solving. Their guidance played a pivotal role in shaping my career, and I feel a sense of responsibility to carry the torch forward. Teaching allows me to share my knowledge, experiences, and practical insights with aspiring developers. Seeing my students grasp difficult concepts, overcome challenges, and embark on their own successful careers is incredibly rewarding. Mentorship is a blessing and I am happy to help and share a part of their success.

• How does your work help society?

  Working as a software developer I can sense the impact that is being made by innovating and working on cutting edge technologies. Nowadays, everything from e-commerce, healthcare, commute and many other essential platforms are built using the skills of software development which facilitate many jobs and create a better community for everyone. My contributions in developing robust and user-friendly software solutions aim to enhance efficiency, connectivity, and accessibility across various sectors. Whether it's streamlining business operations or enabling educational platforms.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  If I were to think of a role model for my work, I would consider Alan Turing. Turing's contributions to computer science, mathematics laid the foundation for much of the technology and research. Right from college I was fascinated when we were introduced to theory of computation as a course in IIITD. His groundbreaking work on the concept of computation and the Turing machine not only shaped the theoretical understanding of computing but also had profound practical implications and that's how modern computers and machines were built . He is truly the father of computing and he shaped a pathway for the modern computing world to take over.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching.

  Outside of my professional work, I extend my problem solving skills to the game of chess. When I am not racking my brain on coding problems I tend to spend a chunk of time playing chess. I enjoy photography and video making, I have a passion for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nature trails and going on days long treks over the mountains. These pursuits not only keep me physically active but also provide a mental refreshment.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  One of my early students initially struggled with the basics of programming and data structures. It was quite a challenge for both of us since the placement season was coming in a few months. Through personalized tutoring sessions and hands-on exercises tailored to their learning style, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in their understanding and confidence. Eventually, they not only learnt the fundamentals but also began to innovate and explore advanced topics independently. His accomplishment was further sweetened when he was able to crack a very good campus offer. His accomplishment highlights the importance of patience, hardwork and impact of the right mentorship one student can have in their academic journey. "Trust the process".