Pixafy’s latest software engineer hire is Tariq Chaudhry. His diverse background gives him a unique take on software engineering and we’re excited to have him on board! Here’s a bit more about him:
Q: How did you discover Pixafy?
Having had prior experience in e-commerce and other web development technologies, I was directed to an open position at Pixafy.
Q: Where are you originally from? Do you still have family there?
I was born in Queens, N.Y., and raised in Suffolk County on Long Island. My immediate family lives on Long Island. I have many relatives overseas in the United Kingdom and Pakistan, most of which I have yet to meet.
Q: Where did you go to school, and what did you study?
I studied Computer Science at Polytechnic University in New York (now called NYU Poly.) I transferred to a school in Florida called Full Sail to study Video Game Design. At that school learned the intricacies of creating 3D graphic engines in OpenGL and DirectX, developing artificial intelligence algorithms, and engineering game & physics engines.
Q: Any mentors/other people who’ve been particularly instrumental in your direction to date?
I must say that the most influential people in my life were introduced to me at the beginning of my education career. A select few of my high school teachers shaped me and inspired me to succeed at a the time when I was building the foundation for success. I believe these positive examples are important for any young person’s life.
Q: What is your first impression of Pixafy?
At first glance, Pixafy seems like a fun and relaxed environment. I could see from the moment I stepped foot in to the office that creativity was welcomed and encouraged. Pixafy sets a positive atmosphere which stimulates the absolute best from our team.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish at Pixafy?
As a part of the development team, I am proud to say that my skills and experience and now assets to the company. I hope to share, as well as gain new experience with new and upcoming technologies. I wish be a part of Pixafy’s growth and expansion of services, just as the company is a part of my growth as a developer.
Q: Hobbies/interests outside of work?
I enjoy yoga, meditation, snowboarding, writing and carpentry.
Q: What kind of music do you listen to?
I like a broad spectrum of genres such as Hip Hop, 80s, Electronic, Hardcore/Metal and Hard Rock.
Q: Qualities you most admire in others (non-Pixafy employees)?
The top most quality that I admire in any human being is integrity. I strongly value maturity, sense of responsibility, consideration and compassion. Having a sense of humor is equally important; occasionally I find it necessary to bend the maturity rule for the sake of enjoying life. After all, the point of life is to be happy, isn’t it?
Q: Any pet peeves?
I like to think that I am a pretty patient person; however, I have a hard time with people who can’t accept that they are wrong.
Q: What’s your favorite part about being a software engineer?
Being a software engineer, or any engineer for that matter requires problem solving. Solving complex problems can sometimes be an arduous task; however, the rewards are equally satisfying. I also like creating things that most people would have no idea how to begin.
Q: If you won the proverbial lottery, what would you do with your windfall?
I would give back to society by creating a charitable organization that provided services for true benefits to the advancement of humanity.
Q: What’s something that no one at Pixafy knows about you (until now)?
I have five tattoos.
