Hanieh Shabanian, Computer Engineering

Degrees
Master in Computer Engineering (2017)
PhD in Computer Engineering (2021)

Current Residence
Billerica, MA

Current Employer
Western New England University

What influenced your decision to attend Herff College of Engineering?
Research studies of the faculties and scholarships

How did Herff prepare you for your career?
Herff College of Engineering provided me with a solid foundation in both technical expertise and critical thinking, which have been essential in shaping my career. The strong work ethic and interdisciplinary perspective I gained at Herff continue to influence my approach to teaching and research today.

What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most helpful in your career?
Throughout my time at Herff College of Engineering, the most valuable skills I gained were problem-solving and adaptability. The program’s emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications taught me how to approach complex technical challenges with creativity and precision. This ability to break down problems and devise innovative solutions has been crucial in my academic career, particularly in research and project development.

Who was your most impactful professor? Why?
Dr. Balasubramanian was undoubtedly the most impactful professor during my time at Herff College. As my PhD advisor, he not only guided me through the complexities of research but also set an example of what it means to be an outstanding mentor. His approach to advising was one of patience and encouragement, focusing on fostering a genuine love for learning rather than just accumulating credits.

He taught me how to navigate the research process with curiosity and rigor, while also demonstrating the importance of treating students with kindness and respect. His emphasis on balancing academic excellence with humanity had a profound influence on my own teaching and advising philosophy. I aim to embody these same qualities as I mentor my own students today.

Were you involved in student groups? If so, which one(s)?
N/A

What support(s) did you have during your time as a college student? How did you keep focused on the goal?
I received teaching and research assistantships during my master's and PhD degrees. Alos, I received some travel support from the college and university to attend a couple of conferences and present my accomplishments.

What was your greatest memory from your time at Herff?
One of my greatest memories from my time at Herff College of Engineering is not only the invaluable education I received but also meeting the love of my life. We were both students in the Herff Engineering College, and our journey began on the very first day of orientation for new students. From that moment, we supported each other through the challenges of our studies, and it’s especially meaningful that we graduated together with our PhDs. Our time at Herff wasn’t just about academic growth; it was also the beginning of a lifelong partnership.

What advice would you give those considering enrolling in Herff College of Engineering?
For anyone considering enrolling in Herff College of Engineering, my advice is to fully embrace the opportunities the program offers. Herff provides an excellent blend of technical education and hands-on experience, but it’s up to you to make the most of it. Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—whether that’s taking on a challenging research project or participating in extracurricular activities.

What do you know now that you wish you had known during your time at Herff?
One thing I know now that I wish I had understood during my time at Herff is the importance of balancing technical expertise with soft skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership. While the technical knowledge I gained was invaluable, I’ve come to realize that success in engineering—and in any career—requires the ability to collaborate effectively, communicate ideas clearly, and lead with empathy.

Was your Herff experience worth the price? If you could do it over again, what would you do differently?
Yes, my experience at Herff College of Engineering was absolutely worth the price. The education, mentorship, and community I found there provided me with the foundation I needed for a successful career. The investment was not only in technical knowledge but also in personal and professional growth, which has had a lasting impact on my journey.