Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.
Chinese Proverb
Hello, everyone! I can’t believe I’m finally writing my first blog post. I’m Dorcas Litunya, an Electrical Engineer venturing into the world of software development. I’m still learning the ropes, so you could call me a Software Engineer in training. My passion lies in building products that address community problems, especially those that involve a blend of hardware and software solutions.
I’m currently interning with the Linux Kernel through Outreachy, and it has been an incredible journey so far. Over the next few weeks, I’m thrilled to use this blog as a platform to share my experiences and insights into building on the Linux Kernel.
Core Values
Before delving into the intricacies of my Linux Kernel adventures, let me share a bit about my core values: curiosity, consistency and willingness to learn.
Curiosity:
I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”
Albert Einstein
I thrive on asking questions because they bring clarity and understanding. My performance peaks optimally when I am in an environment that encourages me to ask questions and I receive satisfactory answers for my questions. As I soak in the world of learning, whether it’s from books, the internet, or the wonders of generative AI, I’ve noticed the best answers often come from people who’ve been around the block. There’s something special about the way experienced folks share what they know – it’s like adding a personal touch to the story of knowledge. It turns learning into a journey, not just about facts, but about the insights that come from real human experiences.
Consistency:
“Every expert was once a beginner.”
Rutherford B. Hayes
Once my questions are asked and answered, I apply consistency. Working continuously on a task until improvement happens is my mantra. I grant myself grace for being a beginner initially, though the torment of not immediately excelling can be real. It’s a process, and every expert was once a beginner.
I break down tasks into manageable chunks, establishing a predictable schedule. Seeking help when needed and staying committed to set goals keep me moving forward.
Willingness to Learn:
Learn continually – there’s always “one more thing” to learn!
Steve Jobs
My commitment to learning extends beyond mere openness; it is a proactive pursuit that fuels my curiosity. I approach challenges with enthusiasm, consistently seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and understanding. Embracing the transformative power of stepping out of my comfort zone, I value both the inquisitive nature of asking questions and the practical wisdom gained through mentorship. This eagerness to learn is a mindset ingrained in my approach to every endeavor, evident in my decision to contribute to the Linux Kernel . I view each challenge as a chance to acquire new skills, and my dedication to perpetual learning is not just a trait but a guiding principle that propels me forward.
Applying to Outreachy
I applied to Outreachy for several reasons. Firstly, it was an incredible opportunity to contribute to open-source projects, gaining real-world experience and enhancing my technical skills. The program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion resonates with my values, providing a platform for underrepresented groups like mine. Lastly, the chance to combine my electrical engineering and software skills drew me in. My project focuses on improving media subsystem test drivers, particularly HDMI in the Linux Media Subsystem, and I’m beyond excited to embark on this journey and share my experiences through this blog. Stay tuned for more updates!
Engineering with Dorcas 
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