GEM Alumni
Zackory Biggers
Masters, Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech
I am a GEM Fellow in order to make the most of my time in Graduate School. I aim to use the resources available to help me to excel academically, improve my abilities as a researcher, and prepare me for a career in industry.
One of the largest lessons I have learned at Virginia Tech is the importance of community. As a Hokie, you are a member of a large family that has your back and will support you both in good and bad times.
Terryl Dodson
Masters, Computer Science & Applications
Computer Science, University of Tennessee
I feel that being a GEM Fellow opens an individual up to more opportunities. Through GEM a student is able to attend graduate school for free which is a lot in itself. On top of that the student has an opportunity to work for an employer through GEM to gain experience within working in industry. This also opens a gateway to making new connections and potentially a full time job in the future.
While at Virginia Tech I hope to expand my knowledge within computer science through conducting research. I am excited in starting my journey at Virginia Tech and continuing to broaden my knowledge.
Craig Wormack
Masters, Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering, Liberty University
The GEM fellowship program provides opportunities and connections in the engineering industry. GEM also provides funding for higher education such as a masters or PHD.
I hope to perform research related to machine learning or automation for my professional career.
Michael Bell
Masters, Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering, North Carolina A&T
Being a GEM Fellow allows you the opportunity to explore diverse topics while working with people from various universities and companies. It opens numerous doors for students to expand their knowledge and establish a fulfilling research career.
I hope to gain a more detailed understanding of Civil Engineering. Additionally, I hope to forge last connections that will follow me throughout my professional and social life.
Jonathan Charleston
PhD, Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering, Kennesaw State University
The path to achieving my career goals became clearer by seeing the heights that GEM Alumni have achieved with the fellowship's support.
I have learned to access and build a network of people who genuinely believe in our success.
Yamilet Macias-Orihuela
Masters, Biomedical Engineering
Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech
Its the opportunity to be a part of a network of students in STEM that could be sources of inspiration and support.
How to be a mentor and advocate for the next generation of engineers. I would like to gain professional development in my specific field.
Albin Rosado
Masters, Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)
Civil Engineering, Lehigh University
Being a GEM fellow allowed me to find a university willing to help me fund my graduate education. The GEM fellowship also allowed me to connect with other GEM fellows who come from similar underrepresented backgrounds as myself. This is very important for me as it helps me not to experience imposter syndrome.
In the geotechnical engineering program of the civil engineering department here at Virginia Tech, aside from learning various topics in geotechnical engineering, I have developed my skills to write technical reports and to present on technical topics. These are important but often overlooked skills to have when going to work in the industry.
Bryant Springle
Masters, Aerospace Engineering
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, (SUNY) University at Buffalo
Being a GEM Fellow sets you up for success if entering a new environment while going into higher education. It allows an individual to meet like-minded students, get access to networking events, and become a part of a community that actively offers help and advice that will keep you on a path that focuses on academics and/or research.
I have gained a lot of experience in my focus that will allow me to sell myself in future job interviews. There is still another year left in my program where I hope to gain even more experience in my focus, become more confident in myself and my abilities, and succeed overall in my own personal and professional goals that I have set for myself.
Kingsley Nwosu
Masters, Computer Science
Computer Science, Saint Leo University
Funding and networking opportunities are the two main reasons to be a GEM Fellow. Not having to worry about securing funding semester-by-semester is nice. Also, the GEM community is great.
I developed both academically and personally at Virginia Tech. I learned more about what I'm interested in and what I'm not interested in.
Alberto Post
Masters, Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace Engineering, Virginia Tech
GEM has been a great resource to me by connecting me to the New Horizons Graduate Scholars program here at Virginia Tech.
Through my graduate program at Virginia Tech, I have furthered my education in aerospace engineering and had the opportunity to work on both the engineering and social hurdles that face the new and emerging field of commercial UAS.
Katrina Colucci-Chang
PhD, Biomedical Engineering
Bioengineering, George Mason University
The reason to be a GEM Fellow is because it creates a sense of community for a world that was not designed for under-represented population. Also it gives for an opportunity for you to change from gem associate to full fellow.
I hope to learn analytical and critical thinking skills in a engineering school. Plus I hope to expand my network since Virginia Tech alumni are in many job fields.
Kimberly Harry
PhD, Industrial and Systems Engineering
Industrial Engineering, Cal Poly
As a GEM Fellow you will be well-supported for a successful and impactful career in STEM.
I have learned to persevere and work relentlessly to achieve my goals.
Setor Zilevu
PhD, Computer Science
Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech
Being a GEM Fellow is a remarkable experience. The GEM network is genuinely like no other. There are so many talented GEM Fellows that push and motivate you along the graduate school journey. In addition, there are a strong support system and provides so many opportunities and benefits both personally and professionally.
I feel immense gratitude towards GEM and Virginia Tech. Throughout my journey as a graduate student at both the Master’s and Ph.D. levels, both GEM and Virginia Tech have provided the motivation, encouragement, and resources to allow me to complete my graduate degree to the best of my abilities. The skill sets, resources, and overall experience throughout these years have honestly been remarkable.
Brian Cesar-Tondreau
PhD, Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology
The connections to potential employers and accomplished researchers in your field of study are an invaluable benefit that comes with being a GEM Fellow.
I hope to gain a PhD in Computer engineering from my time at Virginia Tech.
Adam Lowery
PhD, Mechanical Engineering
Physics; Mechanical Engineering, Lincoln University; Cornell University
Being a GEM fellow will place an aspiring professional at the intersection of academia and industry. GEM also allows you to hone professional development skills needed for the transition from grad school.
I've learned that as a graduate student you must become comfortable advocating for yourself, because there is no guarantee anyone else will.