December 2008 Graduates
Donald Justin Brett
B.S., Computer Science
Next step
I am going to pursue a master’s degree here at UT Dallas.
Educational highlights
My favorite class at the Jonsson School would have to be my first algorithms and data structures class. It was the first class which really showed me the benefits of applying mathematical thinking to designing programs.
The most important thing I have learned here at the Jonsson School is that throughout your life you will be learning new things about computers and programming, and instead of becoming depressed or intimidated by this, you should embrace it, since it means that you always have new puzzles to solve, new toys to play with and new ways to wow and impress your friends.
Long-term plans
Five years from now I hope to be working in a job which combines my love of physics with my love for coding, such as programming telescopes or creating physics simulations for video games.
Final thoughts
I came to this school wanting to be an accountant and (luckily) came out a Turing nerd.
Hamida Gidden
B.S., Electrical Engineering
Next step
I plan to continue working at Texas Instruments. I am currently transitioning from the role of a device technician to that of a product engineer in one of TI’s fabrication facilities.
Educational highlights
My favorite experience in the Jonsson School was Electrical Network Analysis with Dr. Arturo Garcia. This was the first course where I realized how working together with other students was a more efficient and productive way to learn course material and get homework done.
The most memorable instructor I had was Dr. Nathan Dodge. Not because his digital systems course was one of the first classes I took here, but it was his method of delivering every lecture with a sense of passion that left an impression on me. He truly loves what he does, and I hope to be able to find a similar sense of zeal in my work.
After a few more engineering courses, especially the brick wall that could only be Dr. Matt Goeckner’s EMag course, I understood the importance of asking questions during class and arranging times to meet with the instructor or TA to better grasp concepts.
Long-term plans
Five years from now I can see myself pursuing an M.S.E.E. degree here at UT Dallas. A career path in developing energy-efficient, low-power, high-performance devices to supplement our daily life is a plan.
Final thoughts
I was motivated by Dr. Emmett Brown (“Back to the Future”) to study math and sciences. Although I may not fashion a time-travel contraption from a flux capacitor and a DeLorean, I believe that my undergrad foundation established at UT Dallas has enabled me to think fourth dimensionally.
Mischa Jampolsky
B.S., Telecommunications Engineering
Next step
I am continuing my employment at Alcatel-Lucent, where I have interned for the past year.
Educational highlights
My favorite class was Professional Communications. The nature of the class material makes it very engaging between the professor and the students, and I found the utility of the material taught directly applicable to enhancing the skills I need to function in a professional engineering environment.
If I have to single a favorite professor, it would be Dr. Fumagalli. As the head of the Telecommunications Engineering Program, he works tirelessly to ensure students are getting the best value out of their education, and he has a deep interest in integrating both traditional academic research and industry participation into his program to best prepare his students for rewarding and successful opportunitites.
Long-term plans
I hope to continue to do what I came to the Dallas area and UTD to do: become the most well-rounded telecommunications industry professional I can be. I hope I can match that with steady growth in career opportunities and exciting projects that affect the way the world communicates.
Final thoughts
I hope to stay involved with UTD in some capacity after graduation to ensure the mission of the Telecommunications Engineering Program is fully realized.
Khashayar Kash Khosravi
B.S., Electrical Engineering
Next step
I plan to study for my master’s degree while working for Raytheon.
Educational highlights
Dr. Lehmann and Dr. Goeckner were my favorite instructors because they really make sure students learn the material, and also because of their enthusiasm toward teaching. I also learned during my education at the Jonsson School that to be a thorough engineer you have to be motivated, dedicated and tough.
Long-term plans
To be a successful engineer.
Final thoughts
I have been happily married to my wife for seven years, and we have a 2-year-old boy. I am a musician at heart and play the violin and flute.
Ryan Layfield
Ph.D., Computer Science
Next step
I plan to continue working in the software industry.
Educational highlights
After taking Object Oriented Programming I saw development in a new light and changed the way I approached every challenge I encountered. My favorite instructor was David Russo for sharing his perspective on life and experiences in the industry. He connected with his students and encouraged me to enter the graduate program.
Long-term plans
I plan to pursue a project management role in the industry while preparing to teach at a local university.
Final thoughts
I am here because of my God, family and friends.
Wei Wei
B.S., Electrical Engineering
Next step
I plan to work in industry and study for my master’s degree at the same time.
Educational highlights
The most interesting experience was the senior design project. It took us a lot of time to finish the project, but it was really a great and unforgettable experience. We worked together to plan our project and found the solution to solve the problems. We also prepared the presentation and reported on our work. We all had a good time, and I think it made me experience the real spirit of teamwork.
I think the most important thing I learned at the Jonsson School was from the attitude of the other students. Whenever I was in the building, I saw groups of students get together to discuss questions, and there were often a lot of students asking questions after class. This kind of attitude encouraged me to make even greater effort and to do my best in my classes.
Long-term plans
Five years from now I hope I am working on my Ph.D. and that I have already accumulated plenty of professional work experience.
Final thoughts
I was a transfer student, and at first English was really a problem for me. But my friends and instructors helped me overcome my initial problems and succeed in my classes.
