Geek of the Week: Andrew Towe, Sophomore, Comp Sci

John Green once said that nerds “…are allowed to be unironically enthusiastic about stuff… Nerds are allowed to love stuff, like jump-up-and-down-in-the-chair-can’t-control-yourself-love it.” One of the most obvious examples of this facet of nerdiness on campus is this week’s geek, a sophomore Computer Science major by the name of Andrew “Thüs” Towe. He is known by many for his great enthusiasm in all parts of life, be it having real-life adventures or reveling in ways to play science and fantasy games.

[Oredigger]: Why did you decide to pursue a Computer Science major?
I really like puzzles, I like solving problems, and I really hate paperwork.

What’s been your favorite class?
I think [it’s] a toss-up between Comp Sci 261 and Aikido.

Are you a geek and why?
I would say yes because I’m eccentric and really like science.

How do you spend your free moments?
What free moments? It’s either plotting to take over the world or I have no free time.

What’s been your greatest accomplishment thus far?
I’d say climbing Mount Bierstadt in the middle of the night.

How would you handle an attack from undead dinosaurs?
Assuming it’s dinosaurs that are large, find someplace small I could hide. Probably a sewer or something like that. If they’re small, get a shotgun and continue to move place to place in the sewers. If they’re medium sized – yeah, I think all the plans involve sneaking around the sewers with a shotgun. [Or] stick them all in a giant tank and compress them.

If you could be dropped into any fictional universe, what would it be and why?
“Dragon Age,” because I really like “Dragon Age.” I really like the lore and the experience and the characters and the lore around [them].

What’s your favorite thing about Mines?
The community. I’ve finally found people who understand the words coming out of my mouth.

What’s your best nerd moment?
I’d have to go with Professor Flournoy crushing a can with electromagnetism.

Who would win in a fight – Han Solo or Indiana Jones?
Ooooh… Han Solo because he shoots first.

Do you have any plans for the future?
Take over the world!

Do you have a favorite quote?
“We do things, we beat some people up… profit.” – Captain Isabela, “Dragon Age”

Do you have any advice for fellow geeks and Mines students?
Don’t take everything too seriously; try to laugh some of it off.

What is the essential gear for a mad scientist’s laboratory?
The giant laser beam of doom!