Easton Hugh Herbon ?23

Easton Hugh Herbon

Class Year

’23

Hometown

Antioch, Illinois

Major(s)

Computer Science

“I feel as though I belong here and that my work here as a student is appreciated by those around me, especially the faculty.”

Easton Hugh Herbon, ’23

Career goal

“First, I want to find a job in computer science (possibly under game development) and hone my skills as a computer scientist. Later on, I’d like to use my computer knowledge in the psychology field.”

How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?

“Carthage faculty are extremely nourishing and cooperative. I can always ask professors for help when it comes to homework, projects, or tests. I’m also able to go to faculty with questions about life struggles. They are willing to give their full support to students going through whatever it may be.”

Favorite class

“My favorite classes thus far are the game development courses with Professor Rick Bingen. Ever since I was a child, I’ve been infatuated with video games and computers. I always wanted to learn about creating my own games and putting my creativity to the screen. Learning all the advanced yet encapsulating concepts about creating video games has opened a new career field for me, and I have Prof. Bingen to thank for that!”

Campus involvement

“I am currently a member of the men’s tennis team and the esports team. I believe it is necessary for those in college to be involved in clubs or teams. Being able to partake in the things that you love with other people who appreciate them as much as you do can make the difference in your college experience. Being a member of these programs has given me not only immense joy, but lessons and friendships that I will hold with me for the rest of my life.”

Toughest class

“My toughest class at Carthage was most definitely Object-Oriented Programming. This class, though not mandatory, covers key concepts in the industry. Because of my lack of coding experience, I was unprepared for the class. However, I’m considering enrolling in the class again to fully take in all that it had to offer. Learning a way of coding that is efficient and organized can ultimately help you better understand computer science.”

Internships or on-campus employment

“I currently work at the Carthage Esports Arena as a student supervisor under Coach Kevin Palmer. This job lets me get hands-on experience working with computers, the main server, streaming, and other basic technology. I also get to engage with other students using the facility as well as members of the esports team.”

Scholarships

“I received the highest honors scholarship from Carthage, along with a few other small grants. The scholarship definitely made the difference. It was looking like college wouldn’t be an option for me because of the cost, but because of this scholarship, I was able to fully commit myself to my education.”

Favorite moments and memories at Carthage

“My favorite Carthage memory is of my first Rocket League college esports game. It was our first actual scrimmage with another school, and being the new team on the block, we were doubted from the start. My team was playing a best of five series against another school. We were tied 2-2, and the fifth game was sent into overtime. A minute into overtime, I scored the game-winning goal and got to hear my teammates excitedly scream my name! We celebrated like we had just won a Superbowl championship, and I will never forget that moment!”

Favorite spot on campus

“My favorite spot on campus is the Carthage Esports Arena. It’s such a nice and relaxed environment for work and fun. It’s always a blast there — whether you’re going to class, hanging out with friends, playing games, or watching television.

“I also enjoy going to the N. E. Tarble Athletic and Recreation Center to play basketball, climb the rock wall, and swim in the pool.”

Biggest surprise so far

“My biggest surprise so far at Carthage is the support I receive from everyone around me. I’ve heard stories from friends who go to different colleges about how they feel no connection or support from their faculty or other people around them, which is the opposite of how I feel at Carthage. I feel as though I belong here and that my work here as a student is appreciated by those around me, especially the faculty. Throughout my life, I often struggled with the feeling of belonging somewhere, but I finally feel content here at Carthage.”

What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?

“I believe that 8-year-old me would look at me now and say “wow.” When I was growing up, I had three things on my mind: computers, video games, and school. And now, with Carthage’s help, I am able to do the things that I love with people who support me.”

Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?

“Computer science majors are given the opportunity to be a part of an industry that will only grow exponentially as time goes on and will teach students a myriad of important life skills. This major is extremely organization heavy and exposes you to many real-world problems. Computer science is viewed by many as difficult, but it’s ultimately rewarding if you put in the effort.

“My advice to students is that homework and outside practice will be your best friend; most of the things you learn in this field are found through developing your skills outside of classwork. And the second most important thing is that you have to realize that you can always ask for help! Professors, tutors, and even other students will be essential in learning more. Bouncing ideas off of other people will be one of your greatest assets for any field you go into!”

Why Carthage?

“From the get-go, Carthage had an extremely welcoming environment. I had friends already enrolled here, the campus was gorgeous, and it provided lots of opportunities to help me find myself. Ultimately, the community here made me feel at home and appreciated.”