The title “Trading Fish” is taken from the comments of an old college professor of mine. Strict and precise; he was the model of efficiency. I probably learned more from his class, than all other Computer Science courses combined.

The phrase itself came about when a friend of mine requested a lab grade reevaluation. In his opinion, the teaching assistant deducted too many points from his most recent submission. The exchange went something like this:

Friend: Professor, I think I deserve a few more points for this lab. The teaching assistant hasn’t given me credit for requirements I’ve met.
Professor: (Reviews code.) Well, it looks like you are correct. I’ll add 2 points to your lab grade.
Friend: Thanks.. (left a little unsatisfied.
Professor: We are discussing a lab grade, here. You cannot talk to me as if we are trading fish.

A priceless exchange – certainly a phrase I’ll never forget.