Michael Orlando serves as a systems and applications specialist at the Graduate School. In this role, he performs on-site troubleshooting, provides AV support for classrooms, and manages website editing and maintenance. When he's not helping students, faculty, and staff with all things tech, he enjoys playing online games, spending time with family and friends, and caring for his four rabbits! Keep reading to learn more about Michael.

What is your current title, and what do you do day-to-day?

My current title is systems and applications specialist II, which is a fancy way to say I dabble in many technology-related things. Specifically, on-site troubleshooting, AV support for classrooms, and website editing and maintenance, as well as faculty, student, and staff support, and much more behind the scenes. We're the help desk with legs!

Are you working on any upcoming projects?

We recently updated the Large, Gallick, Schissler, and All Purpose rooms at the Graduate School. Previous technology wasn't quite living up to the post-pandemic learning experience, so we implemented changes like using the room's cameras and microphones for web conferences. This was something we couldn't do before, but it wasn't a huge need prior to the pandemic. The Conference Room is due for an update next, potentially in 2025. 

What excites you the most about working at the Graduate School?

The ability to work without being micromanaged, and my coworkers. There's always a great roster of people at the Graduate School, and our conversations are fun and filled with laughter. I feel that I'm able to be myself at work, which is important to me.

Do you have any hobbies outside of work?

My hobby is having hobbies that last about six months! For example, I was heavily into cosplay, but I ended up dropping it cold turkey when I couldn't get a costume sewn together for Comic Con in San Diego! However, it was a learning experience for me. I also like watching videos of people doing things they love, and then trying it out for myself. The hosts on the videos make the work look so fun! I built a fence recently, fixed our hot water heater, and I now want to build a pond in the backyard and make a concrete path to our driveway.

I also enjoy spending time with my wonderful wife Luisa, our four rabbits – Carrot Cake, Chocolate Cake, Marble Cake, and Magnolia, aka Maggie – and friends. I like board games, online and mobile phone games, comics, manga, and anime as well! 

What skills do you find most valuable in your work?

Being personable! If you are in the good graces of the people you help and work with, it makes everything much easier.

Do you have a favorite memory at the Graduate School so far?

Yes! Meeting my future wife during my first week as a Graduate School staff member. Neither of us knew it at the time, of course! However, she ended up being the best thing to ever happen to me.