A Closer Look at the Computer Lab Workforce

February 11, 2009 by James E. Donaldson

Columbus State's computer lab attendants work hard, yet their hard work is often overlooked by many students.
 
"Sometimes it's easy to just forgot about the [lab attendants]," stated Columbus State Community College student Jennifer Franz. "Even when they are busy running your paper from the printers. It would be nice for them if students appreciated their hard work a little more."
 
The computer lab personnel, despite receiving a paycheck from Columbus State, work officially for a Work-Study program that is funded by Federal Grants.
 
"There are three types of jobs that you will see us doing here in the lab," stated a computer lab worker Mohamed Abdiraghe. "Some of us handle the front desk and sign in students. Some of us carry print-outs from the printer to the trays. Then some of us walk the floor and answer any questions the students might have."
 
While the computer lab is often an efficient operation, very rarely have students been disrupted while using the lab. "The least favorite part of the job, for me, are disruptive and disgruntled students," said Steve Rosnagly, who also is employed by the lab.
 
Rosnagly recollects the last computer lab disruption was when a student had a difficult time understanding that his cell-phone usage was disruptive.
 
Both Abdiraghe and Rosnagly agreed to some extent when asked if there was anything they wished students would know about, concerning computers, before entering the lab.
 
"Older students don't have the computer knowledge that the younger ones have, but that is not surprising," said Rosnagly. "What is shocking is that a lot of people don't know how to print."
 
Abdiraghe stated "It would be great if students took beginner computer classes so they were more familiar with Microsoft Office."
 
Despite their hard work, both enjoy their job and futhermore, they enjoy helping students.
 
"My favorite part of the job is that I get to help students with computer related issues. The techincal side of it," stated Rosnagly.