Tyler McDonough, an engineering university transfer major here at Sinclair, plans to attend Wright State University and achieve an undergraduate degree in computer science. He wants to work in computer science because of its logical nature.
Due to his inquisitive mentality, especially with regard to how things work, he considered pursuing a theoretical physics career. Ultimately, McDonough chose computer science because, as he reports, “I work more in the concrete than I do in the abstract.”
McDonough also works as a student ambassador on campus. He became involved in the program after experiencing a positive enrollment process himself.
While McDonough was in the process of enrolling, he met students in the ambassador program–students who are now his coworkers. McDonough recalls the ambassadors conveying a genuine interest in him as a potential student and more importantly, as a person. Those ambassadors saw potential in him, and now he joins them in the field.
McDonough considers himself a mediator between the college and the students. He gives tours to prospective students from all backgrounds. He strives to help students become aware of what resources are available for them.
“I try to be the biggest advocate for students I possibly can, whether it be someone I know from outside of Sinclair or a potential student or a current student, I help people with accessing their portal,” said McDonough.
Family is also incredibly important to McDonough.
“I have a two-year-old baby brother–my only brother, and he is awesome,” he said. “I honestly tell all of my family members and friends, ‘nothing against you, but he’s my favorite person.’ And it’s true, undoubtedly–he’s wonderful.”
Aside from helping others and keeping up with his studies, McDonough enjoys his social life. He and his friends frequent the Funny Bone Comedy Club and Restaurant on Friday nights. McDonough also plays an occasional video game.
Ultimately, McDonough works toward a better future.
“I want to be all I can be,” McDonough said. “I am on a quest for self-betterment.”
He continued: “A year, two years ago, I was a completely different person. I have been through a lot of–at the time they seemed like. . . just poor choices essentially.”
McDonough, however, is letting nothing hold him back. He said that instead of repeating his poor choices, he has begun to truly apply himself.
Regarding his mission for self-betterment, McDonough repeats a mantra: “The only limits you truly have are those which you impose upon yourself.”
“We have a sense of determination and we have a sense of defeat. And for some it may be stronger or weaker than others in different areas,” concluded McDonough. “We shouldn’t be so easy to give up on things that can make the biggest difference. I try to live my life by that.”
Maggie Stacey
Reporter