Grayson Orr has a tip to share – those pondering a career in Information Technology might like to know that it’s not all about maths.

Grayson, a year-3 Bachelor of Information Technology learner at Otago Polytechnic, says a combination of problem-solving skills and determination are more important than sheer number-crunching ability.

Having been employed as a teaching assistant at Otago Polytechnic for the past three semesters while studying, Grayson has witnessed others’ “lightbulb moments” and shared in their academic growth.

“It’s great. And because Otago Polytechnic attracts a range of learners, you get to see older people really getting into it, too.

“I try to make people feel comfortable and help them arrive at their own solutions,” says Grayson, who regards teaching as one of his one-term goals.

“I want to graduate, go out and work in the I.T. industry, then I’d like to return to Otago Polytechnic and teach certificate-level programmes.

“I’ve chosen a programming pathway in my final year, with the intention of getting into software engineering. My interests are in software testing but I also develop applications.”

Grayson is also a member of an Otago Polytechnic I.T team that has entered the Audacious Challenge competition, which encourages business start-ups and innovation.

Relishing the opportunity to merge his software skills with entrepreneurial thinking, Grayson has helped develop a mobile app that enables home show advertisers and visitors to better interact, while also safeguarding privacy.

“Studying I.T. at Otago Polytechnic has also taught me a lot about businesses and start-ups. It’s not just about software and programs.

“You have to research your ideas as it’s important to find a niche.”