Sharif Tai ’03 has a way with computers. And, as it turns out, he has a way with people, too. Often seen in the computer lab on the fourth floor of Fulton Hall, Sharif plays an integral role in bringing technical support to the EagleEyes Program. During his time at BC, he has worked with virtually all EagleEyes and Camera Mouse users as he sets up hardware, installs new applications and makes sure that equipment is set for optimal performance for each user.

While Sharif’s involvement has already made a lasting contribution to the program, the BC senior is currently working on leaving an even greater legacy behind him. This legacy consists of his thesis project that involves the development of network applications that enable two EagleEyes or Camera Mouse users to work together through a direct connection over the Internet.

What does that mean for EagleEyes and Camera Mouse users? At the moment, it means that users can play games or chat with each other via the web. But, as Sharif explains, “There’s a bigger goal here…now it’s not just the user and the computer screen. Now they have someone they can connect to.”

Response to the application has been overwhelmingly positive. EagleEyes users and their BC Buddies are now able to connect in a whole new way.

“Rather than have a traditional mouse user competing against an EagleEyes user,” Sharif explains, “now there are two EagleEyes users playing against each other. Essentially, the playing field has suddenly become much more level.”

While the application is currently functional, it’s also a work in progress, and Sharif will continue to add features over the next several months. He also aims to make it easier for future undergraduates involved with the program to add on to the application. Through this continuous improvement, Sharif hopes to enhance and expand the way EagleEyes and Camera Mouse users can connect with their world.

When asked how EagleEyes has affected his experience at BC, Sharif responds, “Working on the EagleEyes Project has been great. I actually get to see people using the technology and this has been very gratifying. Seeing how the technology helps people who aren’t able to express themselves in traditional ways gives more meaning to my studies.”