Marie Youmans

I knew that after taking CSCE 204 and SQL I had a strong interest in database development and programming. When the opportunity was brought to me to apply for a position at SCANA, I quickly hopped on the opportunity. The requirements for the internship were that the candidate be familiar with SQL, .Net, Object Orienting programming, and have developmental skills. I knew that I had the skills set needed for the internship but I wasn’t quite sure if I would actually get the job.

When I went on the interview I must say that walking into the office truly gave me the feel of a real world experience. Three individuals, Jim McFarland and Steve Baleno, and a Human Resource Representative interviewed me. To make along story short, I had a panel interview. It was the beginning of my job search experience. Just by the interview I knew that I had my work cut out for me if I actually landed the job. I was fine with that because I was entering the real world. After the interview I was really skeptical on whether they would choose me. I received a phone call about two weeks later from Jim McFarland, asking me when I could start. I was so excited I wanted to start work immediately. I began to teach myself the C# language. Working in the ossil Hydro Department is one of the best experiences I could have ever asked for.

My duties were to assist with the Fuel Management System by modifying old programs to fit the new changes in the department. Although the programs were written by other developers I quickly learned the different programming styles, and how to later incorporate what I saw in my own programs I also had to develop SQL templates from scratch in C#. I taught myself about the object oriented side of C# and its syntax. This position required multitasking ability and true logic skills. In order to be successful one would have to complete projects in a timely manner, assuring they fulfilled all of its obligations as well. I never thought I would land a programming position. I was more interested in Database and Networking, but this experience helped me figure out where my heart really was, and that was to be a successful programmer.

My coursework in the TSTM department prepared me for this position. The programming classes and database classes I took actually were so important in my everyday tasks I read those textbooks to refresh my memory on a lot of things that I had to do for major projects, especially when I started my first project. Those classes also helped me understand the logic of how programming, networking, and databases all work together in major IT projects. Not only were my technical skills important but my soft skills were just as important. SCANA offers a diverse environment, and this type of environment is good for students, and recent college grads. I plan on continuing to work for this company as long as they will have me. I love my job and the people I work with. I couldn’t ask for a better experience. Working at SCANA has prepared me for future endeavors. I will be the first to say if you get the opportunity to become an employee take it.