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.
Student Success News
Computer science senior earns $10,000 scholarship and internship for mentoring peers
A computer whiz at FIU helped turn other students into award winners and earned a $10,000 scholarship and an industry internship in the process. Computer science senior and peer educator Henry Rivas received the scholarship from CodePath and the United Negro College...
Computing students, alumni invigorated by growing attention to tech-talent in Miami
Cities like New York City, San Francisco and Seattle have long been considered the top tech hubs of the nation. Though Miami’s major industries continue to be tourism and finance, the city is emerging as an international tech hub. Talent cultivated locally sees this...
FIU and SoftBank Group partner to inject new talent into South Florida’s tech startup scene
FIU is part of a partnership with SoftBank Group International to prepare students to work with tech startups booming in South Florida. “SoftBank sees Miami as a future technology hub for the world, and that future starts with education,” said Marcelo Claure, CEO of...
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.