From Computing to Hardware: A Q&A with Oliver Lee

For Oliver Lee, a passion for software led to a desire to build things he could see and touch. The 2025 computer science (CS) graduate is completing a second major in electrical engineering, where he’s developed an interest in microelectronics, semiconductor physics, and integrated circuits. 

His background in computing complements that work.

What drew you to study computing? 

I took my first computer science class during my freshman year of high school and fell in love with it. Later, I developed a fondness for embedded systems and computer vision, so I decided to attend Georgia Tech and pursue a CS degree.

What inspired you to pursue your second major? 

After two years at Tech, I realized that pure software did not scratch my mental itch to build physical creations. I also developed a curiosity for microelectronics, semiconductor physics, and integrated circuits.

When did you decide to double major? 

I decided to double major in 2025. A few documentaries on the sociopolitical dynamics of chip technology were major influences. I decided to take advantage of my time here at Tech to learn more about it. 

How do your two majors complement each other? 

In my opinion, CS can supplement virtually all sciences and facets of engineering. Going into electrical engineering with a complete CS degree means I have software experience I can apply to tangible, motivating engineering projects in research and future work. 

Can you share a specific project, class, or experience where you’ve combined both fields? 

When I took CS 3651 Prototyping Intelligent Applications in Fall 2025, I decided to make a DIY camera with a custom camera sensor. For this project, I had to program the camera’s firmware and teach myself how to design the custom PCB for the camera sensor, which I had little experience with given my CS background. This experience reinforced my decision to double major. It also taught me that I enjoyed the struggle and the satisfaction that comes afterward, especially when the result is a physical product, with software as a factor rather than the whole. 

How have you managed the challenges of balancing two majors? 

Luckily, I didn’t face any major challenges in balancing the two majors since I was almost done with my CS degree when I declared my double major. The primary challenge was recognizing how arduous engineering courses are. I had to change how I manage my time. The struggle was hard, but it does feel rewarding.

How do you plan on using your double major? 

I plan to pursue a master’s in electrical engineering and hope to conduct research into the fabrication of semiconductor devices. Given the prominence of software and EDA tools in this field, I believe my double-major background will provide a solid foundation for further academic growth and make me a competitive candidate for graduate school. 

What advice would you give to students considering a computing-related double major? 

If you find the applications of computing more interesting than pure computing and algorithms, you should consider either a minor or a second major in the field that interests you. However, note that this will require you to take more classes, so make sure to weigh the opportunity cost of the extra semesters you might need to complete that major or minor. 

Is there anything unexpected you’ve gained from combining computing with another field? 

Seeing how software supports engineering work and projects is a great motivator to learn more about software and algorithms. It also made me realize how useful the mindset I developed through my computing degree is for solving engineering problems.