This semester, the Georgia Tech School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) welcomed over 650 undergraduates, graduates, and transfer students! With the first week of the fall semester now in the books, students have settled into their schedules, navigating the rhythms of campus life.
As new students continue to learn the ropes some returning undergraduates and graduate students share insights on what they wish they had known during their first semester. These reflections offer valuable advice on finding balance, building networks, and embracing the full Georgia Tech experience, both in and out of the classroom.
Richard Asiamah
Major and Year: Ph.D. , Third Year
What I Wish I Knew: I would build my network even more. People usually talk about how your network could help you get a job after school, but I have come to realize that the value of connections is also prominent even while in school. Connections with other students, faculty, and staff could be helpful during your graduate school journey. You can know of opportunities available through the conversation/interactions that you have with others. So, the biggest advice I would give is to build your networks and community continuously and intentionally while in graduate school.
Paul Cucchiara
Major and Year: M.S., concentration in Digital VLSI, Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: One piece of advice that I would give would be to put yourself out there as much as you can. Doing things like attending as many events as you can, participating in extracurricular activities, and developing close relationships with your colleagues and professors are all good ways to do this. Your time at Georgia Tech will fly by quicker than you will realize, and you should try to cherish all the moments you have while here.
Susannah Gordan
Major and Year: E.E., Fourth Year
What I Wish I Knew: important a school-life balance is! Find something that you enjoy (a hobby, a sport, a club, etc.) outside of academics to allow you to rest and enjoy your time here. Even just spending 30 minutes outside enjoying the weather can help you during a rough day.
Cade Grant
Major and Year: M.S., specialization in Computer Systems and Software, Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: Get to know your classmates! Graduate school can be stressful at times, but it always helps to have a group of people that are going through the same thing as you and are supportive of each other. No matter how difficult an assignment may be or how tough an exam is, remember that you were accepted to Georgia Tech for a reason, and you will get through it!
Lindsey Lubin
Major and Year: M.S., Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: One thing I wish I knew when I was a freshman would be to be more curious of what's going on around campus. There are tons of niche clubs and events that you may miss out on if you only keep your head in your studies. Check out the other GT sports games, tune into Wreck Radio, head to that general body meeting, etc. You never know what you may find."
Davia McKenzie
Major and Year: M.S., specialization in VLSI, Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: Put yourself out there. Make friends or at least get to know the people in your class. It's easy to feel out of place or alone, which can make the workload feel much heavier, more difficult, or even more overwhelming. Engineering is collaborative work; even if you're not working on assignments together, bouncing ideas off each other can make a big difference. Become well aquatinted with the TA's and attend office hours!Working with people with different experiences and perspectives will open your eyes to new ideas and ways of thinking. You’ll realize that people process information differently, and sometimes the way someone else thinks or approaches a problem can expose you to methods or solutions you’ve never considered before. Not only should you be learning in the classroom from the professor, but from each other. This is especially important in a big school. So, introduce yourself, make connections, and build your network—especially within your classes. Also, remember to have fun. There's so much to do on campus and in Atlanta. Work hard, but also enjoy this time. This is advice I wish I had followed from the very first semester, and it’s advice I’ll give to every new incoming student. "
Nikhil Praveen
Major and Year: M.S., Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: "The one piece of advice I would give to a younger version of myself would be to “stop and smell the flowers”! One of the most fun things I've done, apart from my academics and work, was to attend random events. The friends I made and the experiences I've collected really helped me during times when I felt like a fish out of water. "
Hamed Seyedroudbari
Major and Year: Ph.D., Sixth Year
What I Wish I Knew: "There is always someone out there who has the answer to the question. Find peace in accepting that you don't know everything and commit to being a lifelong learner. It's ok to be wrong, we're in school after all. Stay humble, curious, and never be afraid reach out for help. Someone out there has the key to your lock!"
Tony Tu
Major and Year: Ph.D., Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: "Looking back, one thing I wish I knew earlier is how crucial it is to believe in yourself. The Ph.D. journey can be tough, but remember, you've got what it takes. Keep pushing forward, stay positive, and never stop learning. You've got this!"
Nikitha Tamraparni
Major and Year: M.S., specialization in VLSI, Second Year
What I Wish I Knew: "One key piece of advice I wish I had during my first semester in ECE is to take things one step at a time. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the combination of challenging classes, research responsibilities, homework, and exams. On top of that, the pressure to secure an internship or a full-time job can add to the stress.
Despite the immense peer pressure and high expectations, it’s crucial to stay self-motivated and encourage yourself to remain positive. Focus on tackling each task as it comes, rather than trying to juggle everything all at once. This approach can help you manage your workload more effectively and make your journey through ECE more manageable and enjoyable."
Navigating the academic and social landscape of ECE and Georgia Tech at large can be challenging, but several on-campus resources are designed to support students in various aspects of their journey. From academic assistance and communication skills development to mental health support and fostering a sense of community, these resources are crucial for student success.
Whether you’re seeking help with coursework, improving your communication skills, or simply looking to connect with others, there are a range of services to help you thrive! Here’s a closer look at some of the most valuable resources available to students
ECE Student Resource Hub
ECE Student Resource Hub offers easy access to the support and opportunities offered throughout the School and Institute. Whether you need academic assistance, financial support, well-being resources, career guidance, or technical tools, we've got you covered. Click on the cards below to access each resource page.
ECE Student Organizations
In addition to 300+ Institute-wide student organizations, a number of ECE-specific organizations exist within the School. Involvement in student organizations is a great way to meet people, engage in outreach activities, and build your resume.
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