Earning a Florida Polytechnic University degree in computer science and information technology has added some magic to senior Andre Goode’s life. Disney magic, that is.
On May 4, Goode is graduating from Florida Poly cum laude, as part of the university’s first four-year class. After graduation, the Weston, Florida native will begin working in a full-time position with The Walt Disney Company as a software engineer and an inaugural member of the company’s two-year technology rotational program. The opportunity will expose him to various Disney business segments, like ESPN and Walt Disney Studios.
Working for Disney has been a dream of Goode’s since he interned with the company during the summer of 2017.
As an information engineer intern, he had the opportunity to work on machine learning and data analytics. He was able to gain a behind-the-scenes look at Walt Disney World and how science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) makes the magic of Disney possible. During the internship, his work focused on predicting a maintenance schedule that would reduce the overall downtime of the attractions.
“One of the best parts of my job was getting to witness the joy and excitement the park brings to people of all ages,” said Goode.
Using the technical skills he learned at Florida Poly, Goode says he was able to “engineer happiness” and enhance the overall guest experience.
“Florida Poly helped me obtain the skills to succeed in the always-changing tech industry,” said Goode. “The faculty are supportive, and my classmates were all passionate about learning, all of which helped me grow.”
Goode found his passion for science and technology early on in life. He made YouTube videos in middle school to teach other kids cell phone tricks and hacks. He learned about computer science in high school and was hooked.
“I loved being able to solve problems so logically,” he said.
When it was time to choose a college, Florida Poly’s STEM focus and strategic location in the heart of the state’s I-4 corridor made the university a perfect choice.
“I’m glad that I’m a little bit of a risk taker and wasn’t afraid to be part of the first class at Florida Poly,” said Goode. “It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
Editor’s Note: This story is one of a series of stories featuring several of Florida Poly’s Class of 2018 graduates.