Meet our alumni - Denny Cheng
What made you choose the MSSE program?
I liked the structured design of the program and the cohort model. I feel like the MSSE program did a great job of minimizing the logistical tasks, which allowed us to focus on learning the material.
How have you benefited from the MSSE program?
The program has helped me to become a more well-rounded engineer from a technical and leadership perspective. Before coming into the program, I didn't have much experience in understanding what was true enterprise software. The MSSE program taught me to think critically and to understand that "it depends" truly is the answer to any technical decision.
What things stand out as valuable learning?
I have two stand out learnings that I can confidently say I continue to use to this day. The Data Modeling course taught me to continuously challenge my understanding of the data I'm trying to model, regardless of whether the domain is large or small. The Software Architecture course taught me that, when diving into any technology, new or old, it's good to have a healthy dose of skepticism. I learned that getting your hands dirty by doing a thorough technical analysis and gaining an understanding of the nuances of options is helpful in confidently determining if an implementation is right for you.
How are you different now than before you started the program? Do you have any new insights, approaches, or ways of thinking?
Before taking the MSSE program, I didn't really understand how decisions were made on an enterprise architectural level. The program helped me to demystify a lot of the "magic" that goes into the making of those decisions. I also learned to be more comfortable with the unknown of software engineering. Prior to taking the MSSE program, I had some fear about finding the perfect solution. The knowledge and skills I gained through the program helped me to embrace the unknown and to realize that there never is a perfect solution to any problem. I learned that the process of navigating the unknown is where true learning and growth come from and not to fear it. This has given me more confidence as an engineer.
What are your thoughts about the cohort model of learning?
It was one of the great things about the MSSE program. It's an effective way to build close relationships with your peers because we are all experiencing this journey together. My fellow cohort members are a key reason why I succeeded in the program.
Has the program helped you in your career?
Yes, definitely so. Like many other software engineers, I never truly felt competent with my skills, since they were conditional to my place of employment. The MSSE program provided a learning environment to solidify my skills and become a more confident, well-rounded engineer with a more critical perspective on software engineering.
What is your job title and where do you work?
I currently work as a security and software engineer at Code42. My main responsibilities involve bridging the gap between security and software and helping to bring the DevSecOps model to life.