Since we’re a close-knit group, we like to get to know our newest additions ASAP. We were lucky enough to welcome two new web developers to the Webspec Crew last month and so far, Laura Saner and Nic Woods have already made positive impressions! Our clients will be happy to hear that Laura and Nic are passionate about their work and are fitting in with our team perfectly, thanks in part to their willingness to admit things like falling down stairs in front of a crowd and destroying relationships with chocolate milk.
Welcome, Laura! Let’s get started. Where are you from? What’s your story?
I’m from Ottumwa originally and I moved to Des Moines shortly after high school. I began taking computer programming classes in college, but switched to more web-focused courses later. Most of what I know was self-taught and taking official courses just helped refine my knowledge.
You’re legally considered an adult at 18, but what was the moment you really felt like you were a grown up (or has that not happened yet)?
The first time I felt like an adult was when I bought my first house. That feeling didn’t last long, because most of the time I still feel like a 16-year-old running around with too much freedom.
Is there a famous conspiracy theory you believe? If not, would you like to start one now? Here’s your chance!
While I enjoy hearing about conspiracy theories, I don’t actually believe any of them, but ever since I watched Truman Show I occasionally get paranoid that it’s happening to me. Don’t we all wonder that from time to time?
What’s your favorite vacation spot and why?
My favorite vacation spot would be a new city. I have the most fun experiencing new places. It’s always a bonus if they have an awesome science museum and amusement park.
You have a friend visiting Des Moines who’s never been here before. Where do you take them and what do you do?
It’s not really exclusive to Des Moines, but I’ve been taking most of my friends who visit to Flix Brewhouse. Dinner and a movie in one, what’s not to love?
What are your top three all-time favorite songs?
Because 80’s music is the best, I’d say “Take On Me” by A-ha and “Separate Ways” by Journey. As for more current stuff, my favorite band is Deftones, so I’d pick “Passenger” from them.
Stuff happens. We fall up stairs, trip over nothing, and walk into glass doors (sometimes). What’s your most embarrassing moment?
When I first met my best friend in high school, I was talking to her as we were walking out of the building. Mid-sentence, I tripped and fell down probably 10 stairs. Since it was the end of the day, there were witnesses everywhere. You can see the stairs .
Name one vice you could never give up?
I guess caffeine, because I’ve tried multiple times and yet I always come crawling back.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
The sound of silverware scraping on plates or teeth makes me want to crawl up the wall.
Your parent(s) raised you and taught you so much. Can you name something you taught your parent(s)?
According to my mom, I taught her to have patience, so we can all guess what that means.
If we ever decide to host a Webspec Talent Show, what would you be doing?
Either hiding or displaying the most intense stage fright you’ve ever seen.
Nic, welcome to the crew! Where are you from? What’s your story?
I’m originally from Boone, Iowa. I grew up admiring my mother, who is a physics and calculus professor, so I grew up spending time in her physics lab, and learning how to be a nerd from a young age. Nerd is in my blood.
You’re legally considered an adult at 18, but what was the moment you really felt like you were a grown up (or has that not happened yet)?
That exact moment happened after I graduated college. I bought a one-way ticket and packed a backpack and moved to Denver, Colorado with $17 in my bank account. Basically, I had two options: fail and starve to death or succeed at all costs. Turns out, I can be a great problem-solver when food is on the line. 🙂
Is there a famous conspiracy theory you believe? If not, would you like to start one now? Here’s your chance!
I tend to believe things when there is evidence to support that claim, which is why I do not believe any conspiracy theories. But yes, I would like to start one now: there is a secret plan from the government to take over Google, and change the name to “Giggle.” Get ready.
What’s your favorite vacation spot and why?
I want to go to outer space.
You have a friend visiting Des Moines who’s never been here before. Where do you take them and what do you do?
I would take them to my apartment, because I don’t know anything or anyone yet. 🙁
What are your top three all-time favorite songs?
1) “Hard to Concentrate,” Red Hot Chili Peppers; 2) “What I Got,” Sublime; 3) “Sail,” AWOLnation
Stuff happens. We fall up stairs, trip over nothing, and walk into glass doors (sometimes). What’s your most embarrassing moment?
Ugh. In 5th grade, I was sitting across from my girlfriend at the time, and my friend made me laugh so hard I spit chocolate milk all over her. After that, she didn’t think the relationship was going anywhere great, so she broke up with me. Everyone knew and everyone thought it was hilarious. Everyone, of course, but me.
Name one vice you could never give up?
I also have a healthy addiction to caffeine and I see no reason to surrender. I choose caffeine over sleep!
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
It really bothers me when people chew with their mouths open. I cry internally and secretly despise that person.
Your parent(s) raised you and taught you so much. Can you name something you taught your parent(s)?
I have tried and still try to teach my parents the value of their health. That it is an ongoing responsibility to make healthy decisions. When they don’t make healthy decisions, it not only has an impact on them, but it affects the entire family.
If we ever decide to host a Webspec Talent Show, what would you be doing?
I would get a giant plate of food and make it disappear! Magic!