The Matador Emerging Technology and Arts Lab held an information session for students interested in working on web-based applications along with design solutions.
METALab specializes in web-app development engaging and supporting students with a career in the industry by providing hands-on experience.
METALab’s goal is to help students graduate with job-ready skills in the web-app development field by teaching them about collaboration, teamwork, and knowledge of current design software and programming languages.
Ed Preciado, a computer science major, has increased his skills in web development with the help of METAlab.
“I started during the summer, and it has been a great opportunity as it allows everyone to become part of a team, it definitely has been an eye-opening experience,” Preciado said.
Rosemary Babajanini, a computer engineer major, is interested in programs outside of campus and discovered METALAB through a friend.
“I am signing up after this session because I want to increase my skills and hopefully get a better understanding of this field,” Babajanini said.
METALab works with the front end of the web, in which designers deal with JavaScript, jQuery and HTML. Students also learn to work with the back-end, consisting of the server and database. Back-end technology works with languages like PHP, Python, and Ruby.
“When I came here I didn’t know anything about coding, it was intimidating, but I started learning and kept going,” Claudia Ramos, a business marketing major, said.
The organization is currently working on many projects; one of these applications is called “Faculty.” Faculty syllabus, stories, and research interest are areas displayed within this application. This tool allows students to engage with faculty on a different level.
METALab marketing lead, Edgar Limon, said that a majority complete projects as a team and learn something new from each other.
“It’s an extension of the academic unit, you’re outside of the classroom,” Limon said.
Ashley Vargas, a computing and information technology major, said that one of the benefits of being a part of METALab is that it prepares her for the real world. She said that she appreciates the guidance and support given while allowing her to make mistakes and correcting them while enhancing her skills every day.
“I think this program will give me an insight on tools needed since one of my goals is to work with Cyber Security,” Vargas said.
Yazmin Peebles, METALab Operations and Business Manager, believes that work ethic and being committed is what will help students go far.
“Students need to be committed and display work ethic. You can be smart, but it’s not going to help you if you don’t portray these qualities,” Peebles said.
To become a part of METALab email info@metalab.csun.edu for more information.
