Student Success and Empowerment - FIU College of Engineering and Computing

FIU College of Engineering and Computing students have unique stories. They are relentless in pursuing big ideas that will lead to better lives, and have demonstrated that they are Worlds Ahead in innovation and creativity. Read on for stories of FIU engineering and computer science students who know this first-hand. Get inspired to create your own success story or join us to give students every opportunity to pursue their dreams and be the leaders of our community.

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Student Success News

From model bridges to making history: SGA President Francesca Casanova’s inspiring journey

Nov 8, 2024

The first female engineering major to lead FIU's student government brings a unique perspective to the role. It’s been an unexpected path for Francesca Casanova. It all started when she was tasked with building a model bridge for a school project in the sixth grade....

Engineering students invent new sensory system for the visually impaired

May 24, 2024

FIU engineering majors Gabriel Habech and Michael Romano have always aspired to improve the lives of others through innovation and entrepreneurship. The two-member team recently created BeyondSight – an assistive technology company that empowers the visually impaired...

Master’s grad overcomes obstacles, sees future in cybersecurity and network management

May 20, 2024

For FIU College of Engineering and Computing Master of Science in Computer Engineering grad Diana Pineda, overcoming adversity hasn’t just made her stronger. It has helped her become a rising star in cybersecurity. “I like puzzles and I like challenges. It’s just the...

Worlds Ahead Graduates – Fall 2018

Cesar Villa-Garcia

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

At age 10, Cesar came to the U.S. from his native Peru, and taught himself how to code and design. By middle school, he was developing websites and creating computer graphics. After graduating from Miami Dade College, he took three years off to save money and help his family financially.

Melody Gonzalez

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

A single mother, Melody worked two jobs and paid for school with more than 10 scholarships, including national awards from the Society of Women Engineers, American Society of Civil Engineers and a Google STEM Scholarship.

Md Asif Raihan

Degree: Ph.D. in Civil Engineering

Md Asif Raihan is guided by the words of Steve Jobs: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” It is what drove him to pursue his Ph.D. in civil engineering despite several challenges. He left his young sons behind in his native Bangladesh to pursue his dream. During his time at FIU, he worked day and night, despite several serious and persistent health issues.

Soheil Soleimanikutanaei

Degree: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Soheil was determined to come to the U.S. from his homeland, Iran. Arriving in a new country and not knowing anyone was difficult. After authoring more than 70 articles which have been cited over 2,600 times, he is receiving his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering.