First Year Students

This Will Change Everything

Simpson Colloquium SC-101 B   This Will Change Everything
Tu  TH   11:20 AM - 12:50 PM

Will developments in information technology over the next 20 - 30 years “change everything” - i.e. completely transform human society?  For example, could we transmit thoughts directly from one human brain to another, via the Internet? Will it be possible to “back-up” our brains in electronic format, and thereby live “forever”?  If these technologies become possible, would we want to use them?

In this class we will investigate trends in information technology and consider what developments are likely to occur in the foreseeable future. We will discuss artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, genetic engineering, and other ideas that may have a transformative effect on human society. Whether you are worried or excited about the future, this class promises to provide a singularly interesting experience.

Meet Your ProfessorMark Brodie
Mark Brodie, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Computer Science

I grew up in South Africa, where I obtained my undergraduate degree, and then came to the USA. I received my PhD at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. After graduate school I moved to the New York area and worked as a researcher in computer science for IBM.

I joined Simpson in Fall 2008, and live in Indianola with my wife and five-year-old daughter. My most enjoyable hobby is making outrageous statements about the future and seeing if people think I’m crazy.

Zach HuebenerMeet Your Destination Leader
 Zach Huebener

My name is Zachariah Huebener. I usually go by Zach, but feel free to call me “Zach-Attack” or “Zesty” if you want to. I graduated from Ottumwa High School in 2009. I am a senior Math and Physics double major with a Computer Science minor. After college I hope to get a job in the alternative energy industry (solar panels, wind turbines, etc). 

At Simpson I play drums in the pep band and in the praise band for the Wednesday-night worship service. I'm really involved in the Environmental Awareness Club because I love recycling, composting, and learning about ways to be environmentally friendly. I'm also an active member of the Physics/Pre-Engineering Club. I volunteer at the student-run coffee shop as well as at an after-school program for kids. My two work-study jobs are as a library worker and as a math tutor.

In my spare time I like to run and play Super Smash Bros on the N64 with friends. I also like to study the bible and talk about it with others. In all I do, I try to give God the glory and seek His will for my life. This Fall I’m excited to be a Destination Leader and help first-year students have an amazing time at Simpson like I have. 

Meet Your Writing FellowWhitney Thompson
Whitney Thompson

My name is Whitney Thompson, and I am going to be a senior next year at Simpson. I graduated from Davis County High School in 2009 and am currently double majoring in Honors Math and Economics and minoring in Computer Science. I plan to attend graduate school to study either Behavioral Economics or Applied Math.

I like being really involved at Simpson. I participate in everything from intramurals to math club and play for Simpson’s tennis team. I am very active in our math department and have participated in numerous mathematical modeling competitions and other department events.

I love trying new things, hence why I am involved in so many different things on campus. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family, playing games, or just hanging out. I cannot wait to be a Writing Fellow next fall and help introduce the incoming class to all of the wonderful things Simpson has to offer. Feel free to email or find me on Facebook. I want to help you transition to college life in any way that I can!  

Last Updated: 5/10/12