Jabia Mostofa Chowdhury, EECE Alum

Degree(s) 
Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering (2022) 

Current Residence 
Memphis, TN 

Current Employer 
Texas A& M, Texarkana 

What influenced your decision to attend Herff College of Engineering? 

I was offered a graduate teaching assistantship from the Electrical engineering department, under Herff college. It definitely was a suitable match of area of study and course curriculum design. 

How did Herff prepare you for your career? 

Herff College provides exceptional opportunities for academic growth and professional development. With its state-of-the-art research facilities and timely resources, Herff equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to excel as a researcher and enhance my professional expertise 

What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most helpful in your career? 

I attended both the master's and Ph.D. program at Herff college. I was in college for several years where I learned many professional and personal skills that helped me grow as a professional. I have been able to learn many tools that are necessary for my research field. 

Who was your most impactful professor? Why? 

I would like to mention my supervisor, Dr. Madhusudhanan Balasubramanian. He was a mentor who guided, motivated, and inspired me to grow. His unwavering encouragement to learn and explore new things was invaluable. 

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

We have a vibrant student community in and around Memphis. Bangladesh Student Association is a large student organization in our university. BSA connects students with a lot of resources in the university hosting many cultural occasions where we have robust international student participation in the university. 

What support(s) did you have during your time as a college student? How did you keep focused on the goal? 

As a teaching assistant in the department, I received valuable financial support that was essential to me during that time. The college's inclusive culture fostered a welcoming environment for international students and interdisciplinary research 

What was your greatest memory from your time at Herff? 

One of my most cherished memories from college was becoming a mother in my final years of doctoral degree. Another highlight was the unforgettable moment I was awarded my Ph.D. degree, a proud accomplishment for both myself and my family. 

What advice would you give those considering enrolling in Herff College of Engineering?  

I would like to have some encouragement for those who are Joining the college. Herff is a place where you can find every resource you need to be a successful graduate student. Enjoy connecting people with diverse professional expertise, plan your goal, and navigate your time effectively.  We live in a time where ample opportunities are at hand, with unprecedented accessibility to resources to flourish yourself professionally and contribute to the broader world. Your contribution really matters for the world! 

What do you know now that you wish you had known during your time at Herff? 

Life presents challenges for everyone, and it's essential to learn how to navigate them effectively. I faced difficulties during my graduate studies, but I believe I would have benefited from understanding that adversity can be an opportunity for personal growth and resilience. 

Was your Herff experience worth the price? If you could do it over again, what would you do differently? 

It was a broad experience.