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Computers
I have a great interest in all things computing. I have a considerable amount of experience in computer use. I have built computer systems for myself and friends, and likewise solved many computer problems for friends and family. I like to keep up to date with both technological hardware and software news through a variety of sources, from online articles/forums to magazines. Since beginning my Computer Science course I have become very interested in programming. I also do a great deal of PC gaming, which you can read in detail about in the Gaming section.
Whilst at University I have written a great many programs, across a few different programming languages (e.g. C, Java, Haskell and Verilog). I'm now very acquainted with the mindset for how problems should be solved, and meticulously searching to ensure there are no bugs.My current major project is a gaming related one. This year, a small group of students had to get together to produce and market an application. My group decided that we wanted to make a Strategy Game. It was decided to program the game in the Java. This will give us the benefit of being cross-platform (PC, Unix & Mac) compatible. Here are some of the features that our game will have:
- Three warring factions
- Support for Network play
- AI opponents
My main task with regards to the game has been to design and write the Game Engine. I also created the corresponding structures for holding and mantaining data of objects (i.e. units, buildings) on the map. In my spare time, over the summer holidays prior to commencing this project, I had infact created a rudementary Game Engine. This turned out to be most beneficial, since I embarked upon this project with a good background knowledge.
My main gaming & coding machine is a Shuttle with dual 19" TFT monitors. This doubled workspace is extremly useful for coding. In addition to this machine, I have a secondary desktop system, which is mostly used for friends to game on! I also own an "ultraportable" laptop, which is excellent for working on the move, and around the house. My other machine which is in use is an old 1GHz laptop. This is perfect for being my web server; with ultra-low power consumption and built-in "UPS" (i.e. battery). It it serving this page for you right now! Click on the images below for larger versions:
Music
I have a vast collection of music; with the most striking thing about it being being the variety. There is, in fact, very little music which I do not like. As a result, I can switch from Chill to Heavy Metal in an instant! I love having such broad musical tastes; since I would feel that I'd be missing out on so much excellent music if I only stuck to one or two genres.
Anime
The first Anime I watched was a cult series called "Neon Genesis Evangelion". This was enough to get me completely hooked, and so I sought out more. I now have a rather large collection. The majority of Anime is released as a series of episodes, although there are films (often these are complementing the series). The freedom of animation over "real life" filming means that Anime can capture things that are otherwise very difficult. The creators of Anime can be as imaginative as they like!
One of the things I find intriguing about Anime is how well the characters are often developed. As you watch a series you can forget that it's an animation, and you feel that you know the characters so well. This can't always be said for "real" films!
Others
I enjoy skiing; most years I go on a skiing holiday to France. I go out onto the pistes with advanced guiders, who lead a group of people on a pre-ordained course, so that you don't have to worry about finding your way! The intense concentration required to remain in control, mixed with the thrill of the speed is most exhilarating. I also enjoy playing Chess, for which I had coaching for some time. I have played for my county, Suffolk, in various tournaments. I played for my School at the EPSCA tournaments for a few years running. Chess is an excellent game for developing strategy and logic.
