Get to know Lijit: Ryan Peterson
Not soon after Ryan lost his kite, I told him he was the lucky next employee to be featured on our company blog. As you might imagine, this was enough to turn Ryan’s frown upside down. I was happy to return the favor since Ryan is continually bringing a smile to everyone’s face in the office. Whether he’s sharing his tea stash (seriously, it’s next to his desk) or teaming up to play foosball, Ryan is, as we like to put it around here, good sauce. Judge for yourself after reading his profile…
What is your Lijit contribution?
As part of Lijit’s Web team, I code some of the core components of our application that users see on a daily basis. 90% of the work I do involves some sort of acronym, such as “PHP” or “XML”, with the exception of “JavaScript”. I also contribute to foosball development in the office - being the “less skilled” half of any team I join - by helping to keep my teammate’s foosball skills sharp.
What sound or noise do you love and why?
One of my favorite sounds is someone asking me “Do you have lunch plans?” because I enjoy getting out of the office and getting to know my coworkers on a different level. And, by the time I’m asked that, I’m almost always very hungry. I also enjoy hearing “Let’s get some drinks” and “Yes, I will make out with you”.
When I work, I usually listen to downtempo music, followed by podcasts such as “This American Life” or “CastaBlasta”.
What turns you on creatively, spiritually, or emotionally and why?
Problem solving and overcoming challenges is extremely rewarding to me, and I’m lucky to be in a profession where that is essentially the job description. When coding through a problem, there are a few Zen moments, when everything makes sense and you know you are on the right track. It’s a good feeling.
Working out is awesome too - and can definitely get me going. I almost always feel great after a workout.
What profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt and why?
I’ve discovered that I enjoy teaching - not necessarily in an academic setting, but I enjoy explaining things and helping people learn and grow.
Something you’re guilty of…
Perhaps I make fun of Twitter too much. Or not enough?
I can be a heavier drinker - of caffeine.
Sometimes people can’t tell when I’m sarcastic. And I was really happy to answer these questions.
Although Ryan can be an occasional rule breaker, as evidenced in the above photo, he’s generally an upstanding guy who writes a mean haiku when he’s inspired. Also, while he may say he makes fun of Twitter too much, you can find and harass Ryan on there if the desire strikes you. I appreciate him being a good sport and taking the time to help make our blog that much cooler. Plus, I can attest that he’s a good guy to have hanging around.
