Meaning: This quote by Jon Postel, a prominent computer scientist, reflects a pivotal moment in his career when he started graduate school at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and took on a part-time research assistant job as a programmer. It speaks to the intersection of academia, research, and technology, as well as the practical application of computer science in measuring the performance of computing systems.

Jon Postel is widely recognized for his significant contributions to the development of the Internet and its underlying protocols. As a scientist and researcher, he played a crucial role in shaping the early infrastructure of the internet and was instrumental in defining and managing various aspects of its technical standards and protocols.

The quote indicates that Postel's journey towards becoming a renowned scientist began during his graduate studies at UCLA. This period likely marked a formative stage in his career, where he gained valuable hands-on experience in the field of computer science and technology. The part-time research assistant job he undertook as a programmer provided him with the opportunity to apply his knowledge and skills in a practical setting, contributing to a project that involved the use of one computer to measure the performance of another.

This project likely involved the development and implementation of software or algorithms aimed at evaluating and benchmarking the performance of computer systems. As a programmer on this project, Postel would have been involved in writing code, testing and debugging programs, and analyzing the data collected from the performance measurements. This experience would have allowed him to gain insights into the inner workings of computer systems and hone his programming abilities, setting the stage for his future contributions to the field of computer science.

Moreover, the quote underscores the importance of research and innovation in the field of technology. Postel's involvement in a research project during his graduate studies highlights the interdisciplinary nature of his work, as he combined his expertise in programming with the principles of computer science and engineering. This multidisciplinary approach likely laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in shaping the infrastructure of the internet and advancing the field of networking and communications.

Additionally, the quote sheds light on the concept of performance measurement in computing, a fundamental aspect of evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of computer systems. The use of one computer to measure the performance of another reflects the practical application of computational techniques to assess and compare the capabilities of different computing platforms. This type of research is essential for understanding the strengths and limitations of hardware and software systems, ultimately driving advancements in technology and computing.

In conclusion, Jon Postel's quote captures a significant moment in his career as a scientist and programmer, highlighting the formative experiences he gained during his graduate studies at UCLA. His involvement in a research project focused on measuring the performance of computer systems exemplifies the intersection of academia, research, and technology, underscoring the foundational role of practical experience in shaping his contributions to the field of computer science and the development of the internet.