This blog post is authored by Henessy Ochoa, Student Technology Assistant, Educational Technology Services

Growing Through Technology Services

Starting With Curiosity

When I first applied to be a Student Technology Assistant, I didn’t consider myself a technology expert; I knew only the basics and was willing to learn. What drew me to the role was the opportunity to build hands-on experience while helping others navigate digital tools they rely on every day. 

Looking back, this role became much more than just a campus job. It pushed me to grow professionally, strengthened my confidence, and gave me real-world skills that go beyond the classroom. 

Learning by Doing 

One of the most valuable parts of this experience was how quickly I learned through practice. Whether I was creating materials in Microsoft 365, organizing data in Excel, or helping build charts and graphs, I gained a stronger understanding of how these tools are used in professional settings. 

Supporting Others Through Technology 

A big part of my role involved troubleshooting and assisting faculty and staff with various technical issues. At first, this felt intimidating because I didn’t always have immediate answers. Over time, I learned that being effective wasn’t about knowing everything; it was about knowing how to approach a problem.

I developed a process of: 

  • Listening carefully to understand the issue 
  • Asking the right questions
  • Testing possible solutions 
  • Communicating clearly and patiently

This not only improved my problem-solving but also my ability to stay calm and professional in challenging situations.

Building Communication and Confidence

Working directly with users taught me how important communication is, especially when explaining technical concepts. I had to learn how to adjust my communication with different people, whether they were comfortable with technology or completely new to it. Through these interactions, I became more confident in:

  • Explaining tools and processes in simple terms
  • Providing support in a patient and approachable way
  • Leading or assisting in technology training sessions

These experiences helped me grow as a communicator.

Teamwork and Professional Growth

Another important part of this role was collaborating with the Educational Technology Services team. Being surrounded by supportive and knowledgeable people made a huge difference in my growth. I was able to ask questions, learn from their experiences, and contribute to our shared goals. 

I also took on administrative tasks and special projects, which taught me to stay organized, manage my time effectively, and adapt to different responsibilities. Balancing this role with my academic work helped me develop a stronger sense of discipline and accountability. 

Lessons I’ll Carry Forward

This experience gave me more than technical skills; it helped me build a foundation for my future career. Some of the biggest takeaways for me included: 

  • Being adaptable when learning new tools or systems
  • Taking initiative, even when I’m unsure 
  • Approaching challenges with a problem-solving mindset
  • Understanding the importance of strong interpersonal skills in any role

These are skills I know will be valuable no matter what path I take. 

Final Reflection

As I wrap up my time as a Student Technology Assistant, I can confidently say I’ve grown in ways I didn’t expect. I started this role seeking experience, and I’m leaving with confidence, practical skills, and a deeper understanding of how technology supports learning and work environments.

If I could give advice to future student assistants, it would be: don’t underestimate yourself. You don’t need to know everything going in; you just need to be willing to learn, stay curious, and put in the effort.

This role showed me that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, and I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned along the way.