Kaitlyn Rouse

Year in college: Junior

Hometown: New Braunfels, TX

Favorite C S experience so far and why: Crazy as it sounds, my favorite CS experiences have been the hours spent sitting in office hours for my computer science courses. It is such a unique feeling to walk into a room and be instantly surrounded by people that support you and understand exactly what you’re struggling with. Computer Science is a tough major to navigate through alone, and office hours are a safe space to share your challenges and grow with your peers. From late-night coding sessions to post-exam In and Out runs, I’ve made great memories and lifelong friendships with the people I’ve met in this major.

What advice (if any) would you go back and give yourself coming into UTCS? Looking back at my first semester in UTCS, I don’t remember what I got on my first programming assignment or how well I did on the final exam. I remember Wednesday lunches with my Pod, karaoke nights in the dorms, and watching the sunrise from the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge with my best friends. My advice to my freshman self is this: step out of your comfort zone and seize every opportunity to make lasting memories.

Best place to eat in Austin? I’m a sucker for anywhere I can get a good bowl of pasta, so my go-to places are Cipollina, Patrizi’s, and North Italia!