Reply to Milot's post
Let me start by informing all of you that did not make it to the Menlo Innovations trip...you missed out a good introduction to the real world, and more. I've been taking computer classes for years now learning how software development & design companies work. But getting a tour in the real world is quite different. The CEO and President, Richard Sheridan was all about common sense. No strict rules, open environment, no cubicles, no long hours, and staff with good attitudes. I had learned about "pair programming" but I didn't understand the concept until I saw two programmers sharing one keyboard, one computer. I think it is a good idea for a freshmen or sophmore to take such trips to determine if that's what the want to do for their careers. All in all, it was two hours of my time well spent.
I am Milot went to trip to Menlo, and it is realy interesting. When Richard told us about how people work in Menlo, it was really fascinating. He told us about how "pair progamming" work and why it is more efficient than ordinary work style. Richard told us how Menlo see and think things differently than others. I think that the key for Menlo to success. They care about their customer and list their voice. That's what good programmer or product designer should do, to give customers what they need. That's so many things that so interesting to me. Even that I have to go to school fashion show in the main campus at 7PM and I was trying to leave 20 min early but I can't resist it and leave Menlo amost at 7PM. I wish i have more this kind of trip more and earlier in my college life.