CS Squarepoint Foundation Scholar Set to Graduate

Graduating Computer Science (CS) major Joey Orofino has made the most of his time at Georgia Tech. He has excelled in academics, research, and leadership. As a teaching assistant (TA) for six semesters and an active leader on campus, he’s inspired others through mentorship and collaboration while contributing to groundbreaking research.

A Passion for Technology and Georgia Tech

Orofino’s passion for technology began at Broadneck High School in Annapolis, Maryland, where he became fascinated by the inner workings of the tech world. This curiosity led him to pursue CS at Georgia Tech, where he embraced opportunities for research, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth. 

“I’ve always been interested in how computer science can be used to create and collaborate in meaningful ways,” Orofino said. “I chose CS at Georgia Tech because it not only provides opportunities to dive deeper into research, clubs and TA-ing, but also allows you to do so alongside incredible people.”

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The Squarepoint Foundation Scholarship played a role in Orofino’s time at Georgia Tech, providing financial assistance and a vote of confidence in his potential. 

“The scholarship wasn’t just financial support; it was a belief in my potential and the dedication I’ve poured into my goals and the College of Computing’s goals,” he said. 

“It showed that at Georgia Tech, achievements are recognized and supported in meaningful ways. It allowed me to focus on the things that are important to me, and not be distracted by the financials.”

RELATED: Squarepoint Foundation Scholar Shines in CS Junior Design Capstone Expo

Research and Mentorship

Orofino says that his research with the School of Interactive Computing’s Bo Zhu was a highlight throughout his academic journey. Together, they worked on creating physically-based fire simulations to better predict wildfire spread.

Additionally, Orofino benefited from the mentorship of SCI’s Mary Hudachek-Buswell and Frederic Faulkner, who guided his growth as a student and a mentor to fellow TAs and other students. 

“Becoming their TA was one of the best choices I’ve made at Georgia Tech,” he said.

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Leadership as Head TA and Beyond

Orofino served as a TA for six semesters, including two as head TA, which allowed him to mentor peers and build meaningful relationships. As part of this, Orofino spearheaded the College’s first-ever Head TA summit with Hudachek-Buswell. The event allowed TAs to learn from one another and improve collaboration. 

“It will be amazing to watch the friends I’ve made TA-ing grow and strive post-graduation,” he said.

His leadership also extended beyond the classroom. As president of the Google Developer Group at Georgia Tech, Orofino developed his skills and connected with others passionate about technology.

Alongside his academic and leadership commitments, Orofino gained hands-on software engineering experience through two summers of internships at NCR Voyix. 

“The classroom teaches you a lot, but internships allow you to use the things you’ve learned to make a real-world impact,” he said

Looking Back and Moving Forward

Reflecting on his time at Georgia Tech, Orofino says he will always value the relationships he formed and the personal growth he experienced. 

“The experiences, the people I’ve met, and even the setbacks shaped my time at Tech in a way I’m most grateful for,” he said. “Graduation is a proud moment, but the real joy came from walking the road that led me here.”

His advice to upcoming CS students is to surround yourself with people who inspire and support you, saying CS is about making an impact.

“CS is much more than just finding the best solutions and writing the most efficient code. It’s about collaboration, the pursuit for better, and creating the things that will ultimately impact the world around you,” he said.

After graduation, Orofino returns to NCR Voyix as a full-time software engineer.