[zerohp]

I'm a 35 year old software developer attending community college right now. I've been programming for a long time but still think there's a lot that a university education can offer me.

In a few months I will apply to University of Illinois for Computer Engineering. I'd really like to focus on computer hardware and low level software, while still learning more fundamental computer science. Computer Engineering strikes a great balance.

Since I started taking classes last year I have discovered a new love for math, thanks to the great professors at my local college. I'm thinking about finishing up my undergraduate education with a dual degree in Mathematics and Computer Engineering.

The long term plan is to become a researcher, in academia or a corporate research lab, so I'll be going on to graduate school. Academia is not for everyone, but I'm prepared to burn through all of my savings to fulfill this dream.