CBEN
Post-graduation plans: Find a job in innovation, a career that keeps him on his feet
"This award recognizes undergraduate students who make substantive contributions to JEDI work on- or off-campus."
What is your favorite memory from your time at CU Boulder?
My first party here at CU Boulder was hosted by the Black Student Association above Cosmos next to Bova's. I remember the energetic atmosphere. It was so energetic I could feel the floor bending and bouncing. We danced ALL night long. I came out of the party and squeezed the sweat out of my shirt. There was so much sweat you could fill three cups of it.
What accomplishment are you most proud of, either academically or personally?
Personally, slowly taking control over emotions and mental state. I have slowly built up my foundation, learning how to handle depression alone, and bring into existence the goals I want. I have learned and continue to learn that I have a choice, that I am a victim primarily to myself and that I am the only one who can change myself for the better, and that my ego will crack in the process.
Tell us about a moment (or moments) when you felt like you hit your stride or felt like you were “officially” an engineer.
I do not care to feel like an engineer. I care to feel like a competent leader. The first time I knew people saw me as a leader or the potential to be one was when I was voted as vice-president for the National Society of Black Engineers.
What was the biggest challenge for you during your engineering education? What did you learn from it?
Learning how to deal with different ways of thought and life. I try to relate with people and do my best not to initiate a conversation about their ideals and ways of life I disagree with and try to build a relationship on things we do agree on. If they want to have a conversation about ideals I will not hold back on what I know.
What is your biggest piece of advice for incoming engineering students?
"Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone ..." (John 8:6-7)