Industry knowledge and a passion for teaching
May 24, 2021
When students in our Web and Mobile Computing program need
career advice or inside industry tips, they know there is a faculty member they
can always count on: instructor Andrej Šarić, known for his cutting-edge
knowledge, industry experience, and hands on classroom approach. Students
recognize him as a valuable mentor, and they recently selected him as the
recipient of the first-ever Experiential Learning Ambassador Award.
Perhaps one of the reasons Mr. Šarić has strong
relationships with students, is that he knows what it’s like to be in their
shoes. He is not only a faculty member, but also an alumnus of RIT Croatia.
After graduating from the RIT Croatia information technology program, he earned
a master’s degree in computer engineering from the University of Dubrovnik, and
joined the RIT Croatia faculty in 2016. Today, his research interests are
focused on smart cities, the internet of things, and the application of
software architectural patterns.
Working at both our Zagreb and Dubrovnik campuses, through a
combination of online and in-person classes, Mr. Šarić teaches several courses
in Website and Mobile Application Development, in which student learn how to
develop modern websites and mobile apps for both iOS and Android platforms.
"I believe that practical knowledge in Information
Technology is one of the most important things, so I teach by using practical
examples and a lot of demonstrations. I like my students to be actively
involved during our classes and I always encourage them to ask a lot of
questions and voice their opinions,” Mr. Saric said.
"Since technology is rapidly changing, so are the tools we
use. It is crucial to me that I always teach the newest cutting-edge material
to the students. Making sure that all of my materials are up to date is a lot
of work; I overhaul my entire course material every year, and it is worth it.
Teaching our students the newest trends and making sure that we are up to date
with the technology is what enables our students to be successful in the job
market once they finish their studies.”
Mr. Šarić’s career in IT began early. He and two fellow
students started their own company, ENUM Software, while they were still
students at RIT Croatia. They worked on multiple projects for the City of
Dubrovnik, including the Smart Parking system, Dubrovnik Card App, Visitor
Counting system, and Dubrovnik Eye. Today, he works with private companies to
provide software solutions and integrations.
In his journey from successful RIT Croatia student, to IT
entrepreneur, to respected RIT Croatia instructor, working with people is
always an important part of the picture for Mr. Šarić.
"Teaching at RIT Croatia is rewarding for many reasons,” he
said. "I am challenged all the time by having to be up to date with all the
newest technologies out there, and this allows me to be a life-long learner.
But the best part is mentoring the students and watching them grow to achieve
great things academically at RIT and profession.
