The early computing movement was driven by a small group of people who envisioned personal computing as a transformative technology.

Back then, those interested in tech were often non-conformists who loved computers, not motivated by financial gains but by a passion for technology.

I dropped out of Harvard to pursue my passion for computing, inspired by the exponential improvements in technology and the potential for personal computers.

The early days of the internet involved connecting to bulletin boards via modems, where communities formed around shared interests, including programming and gaming.

Microsoft's original vision of having a computer on every desk in every home attracted the right type of people and helped build the culture necessary for its success.

I was the president of the Computer Science Undergraduate Association at UC Berkeley, and I loved inviting founders to speak to students to inspire them to start their own startups.

YC's recent events reflect a return to its roots, where hardcore researchers and technologists are at the forefront of building new technologies.

The idea that everyone would use a computer was ridiculed, but I believed it would become mainstream.

During my time at art school in England, I encountered terrible computers that made me feel technically incapable. However, discovering the Macintosh was a relief; it was straightforward to use and revealed the care taken in its design, which sparked my interest in the values behind product creation.