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
Alumni balance love and family using online programs
Little did Estrella Viniachi and Eloy Perez know that their educational paths would lead to love. The pair met at a Miami Dade College international club at the start of their educational journey. They later transferred to FIU for their undergraduate degrees. Both...
Middle school students tap into tomorrow’s future cities
“What we hope to take away from today is to win!” said Marcos Santa-Cruz, a middle school student from St. Hugh Catholic School. His takeaway came true as his team took first place at South Florida’s Future City Competition, which was hosted by FIU’s College of...
Young alumni share 5 tips to overcome graduation anxiety
The Office of Global Learning Initiatives, in partnership with the Honors College, hosted an alumni panel titled “You Got This: The Truth about Post-Grad Life!” yesterday as part of Panther Alumni Week (PAW). Now in its seventh year, PAW brings alumni back to campus...
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.