Dearest Gentle Readers,
It’s certainly been an eventful week. For our final-year students, it was their last dance as students. But for the rest of us, it was an escape from the reality of approaching examinations. There was fun, there were costumes and there were exam timetables, all in a week. The ULES games had their fair share of scandals and banter, but some Civil might still be sore from their loss.
But IEEE has been busy too. 3 weeks ago, we were able to reach 2 secondary schools in our Pre-University STEM Outreach. At MountainTop School, 15 volunteers from IEEE were able to engage students from JSS3 to SS2 on their interests in STEM, different areas in it, and how IEEE could assist them in their journey. We also had practical sessions where the students were introduced to electronic components and how to create circuits with them.
And though it rained on the day we went to Bishop Howells Memorial, both students, and volunteers enjoyed the outings.
Don’t worry, we didn’t forget you guys. We have something for you too.
IEEE Unilag will be partnering with Enoverlab to hold a masterclass, and you are invited! With the rapid advancements we are experiencing in technology, tech skills are getting more and more crucial. This program is for anyone looking to get into tech or to get career tips on how to build your tech career from experts in the industry.
If you were looking for a sign to pick a tech skill, this is it. And you would definitely learn a lot from this event. If you would like to register for the master class, here is the link: https://forms.gle/oC5qQyBUY4H5WDM38
Having updated you with tales of our recent endeavors, it is now my pleasure to unveil the latest whispers and revelations from the ever-evolving tech industry. We have artfully curated these developments just for you to the best of our abilities
Tech Gist
AI models: GPT, Google, and now Apple
As usual, ChatGPT and Google released new models that might put some AI start-ups out of business. Businesses like the Humane AI pin and Rabbit R1 created separate devices to allow AI models to see the world through cameras.
But much like SEES ending BME’s football journey quickly, they seem to have been stopped in their tracks.
Both models would soon be able to use your device’s camera to look at and describe your surroundings (tip: GPT 4o is currently open to free users). And so the question is “Why buy a separate device when I can just use my phone?”.
But along with the newly released iOS 18, Apple has decided to incorporate ChatGPT into their devices. This will allow Siri to access information across various apps, allow you to generate images and use AI in writing tools, and a lot more. Better than the Samsung Galaxy AI? I’ll leave you to judge.
Nvidia: You’ve heard of them, but who are they?
Essentially, Nvidia creates advanced chips, systems, and software for AI. They are known mostly for their GPUs which makes computing processes (training ML models, gaming, video editing) faster.
So why are they ALWAYS in the news?
Well, Nvidia is so crucial to AI. This is majorly because they are the default marketplace for AI companies. And with the AI industry steadily growing bigger and bigger, this week Nvidia’s value actually exceeded the value of Apple Inc. This made it the second most valuable public company in the world (with a brand value increase of 178% in 2024!!).
And unlike other nerdy tech personalities, Jensen Huang (the CEO) is quite badass. From signing autographs for fans to looking great in leather jackets, Jensen is pretty much the Tom Cruise of the tech industry.
Productivity Tips
Being an advocate for learning how to “eat your cake and have it”, let me share some tips on how to stay on top of your academics and still have some time for other things:
Master Your Time: Plan your week with a calendar, prioritize tasks, and break down big projects into manageable chunks.
Learn Like a Pro: Set a study schedule and use active learning techniques like summarizing notes and explaining concepts to others.
Get Help When Needed: Don't be shy! Utilize tutoring centers, writing labs, and study groups. And remember, (most) lecturers are your friends.
Fuel Your Body and Mind: Eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep. A well-rested brain is a happy brain! Fine girl, that 3 hour sleep you do is not helping you.
Beat Stress: Manage stress with mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga. Schedule breaks during studying and take time for hobbies you enjoy.
Friends Are Key: Get to know people around you with similar course selections and offerings. But keep a circle of friends who support you. This can't be overstated.
But remember, balance is key! By taking care of yourself and using these tips, you can achieve academic success and overall well-being.
Well, dear readers, that is all for today. As we teeter on the brink of examinations, with less than 60 days remaining and an abundance of material to study, next week still holds the promise of much-enjoyed distractions from our academics. And as this semester winds to a close, IEEE may yet have a surprise or two in store. So remain ever vigilant, dearest readers, for the intrigue is far from over.
Yours in perpetual intrigue,
Viscount Mike of Dubbing Center.