First Post - Meet with the "Wizard of Woz"

I had been contemplating about starting my own blog for a long time now. But never actually went about it as I feel writing is more of a creative process. It is more of an art whereas I consider myself more of an analytical person. Anyways, I still have decided to go ahead and start writing mainly sharing my thoughts about various things.

Also, there were so many things clouding my mind as to what should be my first post about. And I think nothing would be more appropriate than to write about my meeting with Mr Steve Wozniak, affectionately known to everyone as Mr Woz.


It was 30th sept 2006 and Mr Woz was scheduled to arrive at Library of Philadelphia to give a short speech. The main purpose though was to raise funds for one of his so many philanthropic activities that he is involved in. And that was by selling his autobigraphy authored by Gina Smith, that was just out in the market. After his speech Steve saw to it that he met and spoke personally to everyone who were waiting for him. I was too excited as I was in complete awe of him. I think most people know about Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, and fail to recognize him. I hope they realise he was the man responsible "according to me single-handedly" for building the first so called personal computer.

I knew so much about him. I suggest everyone who has to do anything remotely with computers need to see the movie "The Pirates of the Silicon Valley". What makes the movie more credible is the fact that he himself on his personal website has confessed that most part of the movie is very real, except for few chronological date errors. I couldn't think how to initiate the conversation since I knew so much about him and of whatever little I wanted to know about him, I was able to from his personal website http://www.woz.org/wozscape/wozbio.html. This was making me all the more nervous.

But I think he somehow sensed it when my turn came, and asked me what am I upto, am I a student? And from thereon, I guess it was pretty smooth. He gave an approx whole 5 mins to most of us, and that was something very warm about him. The converation that transpired was as:

Mr Woz: Hi, How are you doing? Are you a student ?
Myself: Good thanks. Yes, I am pursuing my Masters in Computer Science at Drexel University.
Mr Woz: thats great. So what interests you the most.
Myself: Earlier it was information security. But now I am not sure. (And to turn the question I asked him) . What according to you is the next big thing in computers. What would you advise to me/anyone, which field within computers to concentrate on ?
Mr Woz: Well son, I would say do what really interests you. Passion is the key word. You gotta have passion. When I worked at Apple I had fun at whatever I did. I was really passionate about it. Fame, money all these things never crossed my mind.
Myself: (A big smile). Can I take a picture with you.
Mr Woz: Sure. (He stood up so readily when I requested him. I thought he might say yes, but relunctantly and then I would have to stand besides with him seating, but boy wat a pleasant surprise)

He also wrote a personal message with his autogragh in my copy of his autobiography book. Throughout, he was very warm. Also inspite of his age, he seemed to be very agile and active. His replies were quick, witty and articulate. I think I was lucky enough to meet, talk to, get an autograph plus a snap with the person, whom I consider a living legend in the world of computers.

P.S: Santosh & Zarin I finally wrote it. ;)