My Journey into Artificial Intelligence…
My Journey into Artificial Intelligence and Coding Initial Hesitation and Encouragement When I first considered venturing into the world of artificial intelligence and coding, I had no prior exposure to programming or computer science. My background was rooted in dictating medical reports and procedures, with only a basic familiarity with using formulas in a Hewlett-Packard calculator for research purposes. Naturally, I wondered if learning something so entirely new, especially while working full-time, was even possible for someone at my stage in life. The enthusiastic assurance from my advisor was a turning point. Not only did they believe I could succeed, but they also provided a clear pathway: starting with a prerequisite Python course. This reassurance was motivating, and I felt eager to prove that my mind could still grasp a new and complex field. Learning Python: A Challenging Beginning The journey began with the prerequisite Python course in November, followed by the main course in January. Adjusting to the rigorous demands of learning was not easy. The early morning lectures at 5:00 AM on the West Coast, coupled with testing, reading, and practice sessions, required significant sacrifices—social connections, vacations, and leisure time were all put on hold. Despite the challenges, the course was structured in a way that consistently piqued my curiosity, encouraging me to explore what lay ahead. The knowledge gained became its own reward, fueling my determination to keep progressing. Supportive Faculty and Practical Applications The faculty played a crucial role in my success. Their approach was supportive and patient, ensuring I understood concepts even if they took multiple attempts to grasp. The homework given was practical and relevant, encompassing tasks like writing emails, preparing NIH grant proposals, working on differential diagnoses in medicine, and analyzing projects like wine quality evaluation and deep sequencing on a budget. Learning how to interact with natural language AI, compile and process large datasets, and assess the quality of data against established standards were among the most valuable skills I acquired. These exercises demonstrated the real-world applicability of artificial intelligence and coding across various fields. Transformative Outcomes Through this experience, I was introduced to a world that had previously been unfamiliar to me. Despite the initial struggles with my older computer and the steep learning curve, I emerged with a sense of comfort and excitement about using and evolving with this technology. I was finally beginning to catch up with a rapidly advancing world, better equipped to enhance my research, productivity, and understanding of the digital age. In conclusion, this journey was not just about acquiring technical skills but also about proving to myself that it’s never too late to learn something new and transformative. Johns Hopkins University This is to certify that JOSEPH M FAYAD has successfully completed the Certificate Program in APPLIED GENERATIVE Al May, 2025 Paul Huckett Associate Dean WHITING SCHOOL of ENGINEERING JOHNS HOPKINS