I am taking classes toward a college degree in data science.
I regretfully didn’t pursue my interest in technology and computers when I attended Indiana University, where I could have easily gotten a double major in journalism and computer science. (Hindsight is ALWAYS 20/20!)
When working with data, the concept of NULL is frequently mentioned. For those unfamiliar with it, NULL is a computer science concept that indicates “no value” or “invalid value,” particularly in a database. (NULL differs from a zero, which has an inherent numerical value.)
For example, if you sign up for your local retailer’s rewards program, you may provide the bare minimum information needed: first name, last name, and phone number (for speedy checkout). However, if you don’t give them an email address, the email field in their database will contain a NULL value.
What I never considered in those classroom discussions is that Null is a valid last name belonging to thousands of people across the globe. This article from The Wall Street Journal examines some stories of people with the last name of Null and how that name impacts their daily lives in a technology-centric society.
The story opened my eyes to the unintended consequences of a simple decision made by a computer programmer in the past. It provides some food for thought as I advance my technology career.
