From Physics to Programming: My High School's Journey in Early Computer Science

As a high school student, the realm of computer science was far from the landscape of today's advanced and multifaceted field. It was a time when the technological marvels we enjoy now were still in the distant future. My academic interests were primarily in physics, an area where the potential for exploration and discovery was immense. However, the path that led me to the fascinating world of programming and logical reasoning was paved by the burgeoning computer science community at my university.

Initial Interest in Physics

My high school days were dedicated to the pursuit of understanding the fundamental laws of the universe. I was thoroughly engrossed in the study of physics, participating in extra-curricula activities such as clubs and workshops that were designed to augment our knowledge in this domain. These extracurricular activities provided a glimpse into the possibilities and limitations of the physical world, fostering an initial passion for exploration and discovery.

Discovery of Computers in College

The journey of solving complex problems using computers began in college, where I was exposed to the world of computer science through the computing center and remote terminals. These early systems, which predated the invention of the personal computer (PC), revolutionized the way we interacted with technology. The computing center was a hub of activity, bustling with students and researchers alike, all trying to harness the power of computing for various projects and experiments. This environment was both intimidating and exciting, marking the beginning of my lifelong journey in the digital world.

Teaching Myself Programming

In the absence of formal programming courses and comprehensive literature, I took it upon myself to learn programming. This self-taught approach was a blend of intuition and practical experimentation, with a wealth of resources available through the computing center. This period of learning and experimentation laid the foundation for my future endeavors in the field. The challenge of teaching myself programming required a deep understanding of logical reasoning, which would later become one of my core strengths.

Merging Passion for Programming and Symbolic Logic

One of my bachelor's degrees was in logic, specifically the "Vienna School" of logic. This school emphasizes the systematic and rigorous study of logical systems, and its influence was profound in my development as a researcher. It was within this framework that I discovered the intersection between programming and symbolic logic. The ability to translate logical concepts into algorithms and programs became a hallmark of my work.

First Research Paper: Automated Theorem Proving

My first research paper, published as an undergraduate, was a culmination of my enthusiasm for programming and my passion for symbolic logic. The paper focused on automated proving of theorems in first-order predicate logic. This work was not merely an academic exercise; it represented a significant step towards the automation of logical reasoning, an area that has since become a cornerstone of artificial intelligence and computational linguistics. The experience of publishing my research was both rewarding and humbling, serving as a testament to the potential of young minds to contribute meaningfully to the field.

Conclusion

From my early days in high school and beyond, my journey took me through a rich landscape of physics, computing, and logic. While the specific area of early computer science might seem obscure in the context of today's field, it was the fertile ground that nurtured my intellectual growth and set the stage for my future endeavors. The experience of teaching myself programming and combining it with symbolic logic has left an indelible mark on my career, and I continue to draw upon these roots as I explore new frontiers in computer science.

References

1. Wikipedia: Physics 2. Wikipedia: Computer Science 3. Wikipedia: Vienna School (Logic) 4. Early Research Paper on Automated Theorem Proving