I caught up with Aryan Sharma, a third-year software engineering student at Deakin University and a true multi-hyphenate, tech enthusiast, DevOps practitioner, CGI artist, and video editor. Whether he’s leading frontend teams at Gopher Industries or creating content for clients across platforms, Aryan is someone who bridges creativity and logic with clarity and drive. Our conversation touched on inspiration, identity, and the small shifts that make a big difference.
📍Q: What sparked your interest in software engineering and what keeps you excited about it today?
Aryan: “It all started back in school when I first encountered computer science. I was immediately hooked, just the idea that you could take something from your mind and make it real through code felt powerful. I loved the challenge of solving problems and the freedom to build things. That passion followed me into university. From the very first unit, I knew this was what I wanted to pursue. The thought that I can make applications that improve people’s lives? That still motivates me every day.”
📍Q: You work across technical fields like DevOps and software, but also in creative spaces like CGI and video editing. How do those two worlds complement each other for you?
Aryan: “Funny enough, CGI actually came first. Learning it unlocked both the creative and logical parts of my brain. It taught me structure, flow, and attention to detail which translated really well when I later started studying computer science. And working on platforms like Fiverr gave me real-world experience, not just technically, but in communication, deadlines, and networking. So even though they seem like different worlds, for me, they feed into each other. Creative thinking makes me a better developer, and technical skills make me a more resourceful creator.”
📍Q: If you could go back and talk to yourself in your first year of uni, what advice would you give?
Aryan: “Start networking from day one. If I had understood the value of building relationships earlier, I would’ve reached out to more people, joined more communities, had more conversations. The art of conversation, learning how to express yourself, ask questions, and listen, is just as important as technical skills. And building confidence early makes all the difference.”
📍Q: One message for the world?
Aryan: “Be happy that you’re alive. Stop regretting, and start doing. Connect with people, really connect. Give compliments. Make someone’s day. Small things matter.”
✨Key Takeaway:
Aryan’s story is a reminder that curiosity has no boundaries. Whether building apps or digital art, it’s the willingness to start, to connect, and to keep learning that creates the most impact. His journey is a fusion of discipline and imagination proving that when you follow your passion with intention, the worlds of tech and creativity are closer than we think.
