Owen Yang, a senior majoring in Math and Computer Science, joined the ATLAS Internship Program to build experience in web development within a professional environment. Learning about the program through Reddit, Owen saw it as an ideal way to explore his interest in web and mobile development, areas he hopes to specialize in for his future career.

As a Web Developer intern for ATLAS, Owen has been responsible for designing and developing websites, particularly focusing on a website for the Cognitive Decision Making Lab at UIUC using the WordPress content management system. His role also includes weekly communication with his team and client, covering email correspondence, status updates, and collaborative meetings. Owen has enhanced his technical skills in WordPress and web documentation, and his communication and professional writing skills have strengthened through consistent interaction with clients and team members.

During Owen’s internship, he has gained valuable experience in meeting deadlines, conducting research to solve development issues, and ensuring that his work aligns with the client's needs. He has enjoyed the process of building a WordPress site from scratch, overcoming challenges along the way, and is nearing project completion. His exposure to the demands of a professional setting—taking responsibility, maintaining regular communication, and adhering to timelines—has prepared him well for his goals of becoming a web or mobile developer. 

In Owen’s free time, he enjoys sushi, a once-reluctant passion that he now embraces, with tuna nigiri being his favorite.