Mohamad is expanding his possibilities in tech

More knowledge, more choices

Cybersecurity remains one of Mohamad’s strongest interests, but his degree is introducing him to possibilities in other areas of computer science. He is keeping an open mind about where those interests could lead.

“My long-term goal is not to obtain one specific job,” he says. “I want to build a career where I can continue learning, develop advanced technical skills, take on greater responsibilities and eventually move into more senior positions.”

The breadth of his education is allowing Mohamad to consider paths he may not have encountered otherwise. He is building the knowledge and adaptability to pursue new opportunities. As technology develops, Mohamad is growing alongside it.

What he's learned so far

As Mohamad moves through the Bachelor of Computer Science program, he is gaining a fuller understanding of the field he wants to build his career in.

“One of the biggest changes in my thinking has been understanding that computer science is not simply about learning how to code,” he says. “Programming is important, but computer science is also about logical thinking, problem-solving, understanding systems, analyzing information and developing efficient solutions.”

His Discrete Mathematics course has shown him how mathematical reasoning and logic relate to computing. Other courses have reinforced the value of communication and teamwork, which is particularly helpful when technology professionals need to explain complex ideas to people with different levels of technical knowledge.

His education is also influencing how he responds when a challenge arises. Rather than immediately searching for an answer, Mohamad works to identify the central issue, gather relevant information and investigate possible causes before deciding how to proceed.

“Instead of assuming that one approach is automatically correct, I try to understand the reasoning behind different ideas.”

Through his undergraduate studies at UFred, he has become a more patient and analytical problem-solver. He has learned that technical knowledge is only one part of developing an effective solution. People must understand the problem, invite questions and communicate clearly along the way.

Human judgment in the age of AI

Mohamad does not believe AI's abilities diminish the value of studying computer science. He sees AI as a powerful tool, not a substitute for education. Mohamad believes educated people are better prepared to evaluate AI-generated work and use technology responsibly.

“AI can generate code, but someone still needs to understand whether that code is correct, efficient, secure, and appropriate for the problem being solved.”

For example, code may appear to function correctly while containing vulnerabilities or introducing risks that are not immediately visible. Recognizing potential problems requires foundational knowledge and human judgment.

The computer science program at the University of Fredericton gives students hands-on opportunities to understand the systems behind the tools they use. Education encourages students to look beyond an AI output and consider how that answer was reached, whether it can be trusted and how it should be applied. That critical thinking is part of the power of a computer science degree.

“University teaches students how to think, how to communicate, how to work with others, and how to continue learning independently.”

The path that kept him moving forward

Online learning at the University of Fredericton has allowed Mohamad to pursue a recognized degree without reorganizing his life around a traditional on-campus schedule.

“For me, choosing an online university was not about taking an easier path,” he says. “It was about choosing a format that allowed me to continue moving forward academically while maintaining my other responsibilities.”

Mohamad begins each week by reviewing his readings, assignments and other course requirements. After identifying upcoming deadlines, he plans his coursework around his professional commitments. He divides more difficult assignments into manageable sections. The study experience has strengthened his time-management skills and shown him the discipline required to balance university with other commitments.

People he can turn to

Alongside the routines he has developed, Mohamad has learned he can turn to faculty and advisors when he needs clarification on coursework or help navigating the administrative side of his studies. He takes responsibility for organizing his week and completing his assignments, but studying independently does not mean studying alone.

“Even though I am studying remotely, I still feel that there are people available to help me move forward.”

Knowing that support is available has made his studies easier to manage. The independence that allows him to fit university around his commitments is supported by access to people who can offer guidance when he needs it.

A recommendation close to home

Mohamad began his degree wanting to understand more of the technology field and expand his career possibilities. His education is still in progress, but it has already given him confidence in one decision beyond his own studies.

“I’ve had such a positive experience that after my younger brother graduated from high school, I recommended the University of Fredericton to him right away because I truly believe it’s a great place to study.”