Take The Step

A Muir Cheilteach Cove in Kinsale, Ireland

Recently, during a trip to Ireland, I was offered the chance to jump off a pier into the Muir Chelteach (N. Atlantic Ocean) at dawn. The water was a crisp 50 degrees Fahrenheit. I hesitated, but then I thought, "When will I ever do this again?" The answer was never. So, the next morning, I stood at the edge of the pier, swim trunks tied tight, my bare feet on the cold, damp stones. Despite my lingering doubt, I took a deep breath and plunged in. Taking that step forward, despite my innate feeling of discomfort, felt amazing. This feeling drives my blog—embracing the leap, over and over again. Step by step, we make progress.

Artificial intelligence-imbued tools are being created daily, and the opportunities for their implementation seem endless. It feels essential to know how to use these tools for greater success. Though, even more crucial is learning how to create such tools for yourself.

I am part of the former group already, but as a computer scientist I have an overwhelming urge to learn how to build them. That being said, I have never touched any sort of AI modeling program or anything of that nature. The field is vast and complex with no clear place to start, so naturally, it's a bit overwhelming. But what better place to start my blog than on a topic that ties directly to my major and future as a computer scientist. I am writing this blog to take steps, so I should just take that first step... right?

Google recently published some crash courses on AI and ML that are completely free to use. So it sounds like a good place to start. What better than an Introduction to Generative AI class?

My goal for the time between now and my next post will be to complete most of the introductory course. I have a lot going on with school as finals season is ramping up, but I plant to accelerate once summer break begins. For now, I will take it slow for the time being as to avoid overwhelming myself. I'll share what I have learned next week, along with general updates and thoughts.

Have a great week!

~ Cyrus Foroudian