An IT Nerd, Dork, and Former Geek: A Journey Through Personal Interests and Professional Paths
Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s, I was an IT nerd before the term 'nerd' even became widely used. My friends pursued careers in electrical engineering and game development and we all played Risk together. Over the years, I've embraced multiple identities, ranging from a self-proclaimed dork to a passionate geek, and eventually finding my niche as an IT professional.
My Background and Early Interests
My early enthusiasm for technology has been a constant throughout my life. As a child, I received my first computer at the tender age of five, marking the beginning of what would evolve into a lifelong passion for technology. Today, working part of my time in IT, I code, although not always as efficiently as I'd like, and my brain is a treasure trove of arcane and esoteric information.
Defining Myself: Dork, Nerd, and Geek
Dork
When it comes to social interactions, I've always found myself to be somewhat awkward. While I'm not autistic, I'm definitely not neuro-typical either. Socializing can be challenging for me, and I often struggle with what to say or do in conversations. I've been told that my seemingly arrogant or self-centered demeanor is actually a reflection of my anxieties. I don't tend to care much for fashion or appearances.
Nerd
From a technical standpoint, I identify as a nerd. My career in IT confirms this self-proclaimed identity. My ability to intuitively grasp complex mathematical concepts and my fondness for collecting esoteric knowledge have always been hallmarks of my character. Additionally, my willingness to research and understand new concepts until I fully comprehend them sets me apart as a true geek.
Geek
However, when it comes to specific interests, I align more closely with being a geek. My other passion is Dungeons Dragons, a role-playing game that has engaged me for years. I am also deeply passionate about transit, particularly trains. My LCARS-inspired Quora profile further highlights my affinity for science fiction and fantasy. This enthusiasm for niche aspects of pop culture has always defined my geek identity. Despite this, I must admit, I no longer check the 'Geek' box as my time, money, and energy have shifted away from maintaining such obsessive interests.
Defining Criteria: According to Kestrel M
Based on Kestrel M's definitions, I fit the profiles of a dork, a nerd, and no longer a geek. Kestrel M defines a dork as someone lacking in social skills, a nerd as smart and heavily involved in STEM fields, and a geek as over-enthusiastic about science fiction, fantasy, and niche avenues of fringe pop culture. While I still hold onto these identities to some extent, my current role as a full-time IT professional has altered my focus and priorities.
Comparing My Current Identity to Friends
Reflecting on my journey, I cannot help but compare myself to my high-school friend whose deep dive into sci-fi collectibles has led to an entire room dedicated to their interests. If I had not ventured into STEM careers, I might still be maintaining my geek status. However, with the day-to-day challenges of working in a 9-to-5 job involving "non-denominational space lasers," the time, money, and energy required to be obsessively involved in my previous interests have diminished. This evolution is a natural part of life, but it has caused a shift in my self-identification.
Conclusion
Ultimately, I must advise that my current self-identification leans more towards IT nerd, with occasional dorkish tendencies but no longer a fervent geek. Life has a way of changing one's priorities and interests, but the core passions and identities that have shaped me remain a fascinating tapestry of cultural and technological nuances.