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#29 From SUNY Korea to Texas Tech University: SUNY Korea Alumni Shaping the Future of Engineering Please introduce yourself. Leeroy: My name is Leeroy Makusha, and I’m from Zimbabwe. I am currently a Ph.D. student at Texas Tech University, working in the Dynamics of Controls (DOC) Lab. I joined SUNY Korea in Fall 2019 and graduated in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Gibson: I am Gibson Bonaventure Katuma, born and raised in Tanzania. I am pursuing my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Texas Tech University, specializing in design optimization and control of energy systems in the DOC Lab. I am proud to be a SUNY Korea Class of 2025 alumnus, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering as a Shared Prosperity Scholar. Why did you choose to study at SBU Korea, and why Mechanical Engineering? Leeroy: In 2018, I was selected as one of 35 students to join a program called USAP (United States Achievers Program) in Zimbabwe. This program identifies high-achieving, low-income students and helps them apply to top universities around the world that give full scholarships. I learned about SUNY Korea through USAP, and a related program called Second Chance. What fascinated me was the opportunity to study in Korea while earning an American degree, it was a combination that promised global exposure and cross-cultural experience. I had studied Science at the Advanced Level and loved Physics, so I naturally gravitated towards Mechanical Engineering, where I could apply my passion for understanding how things move and work. Gibson: SUNY Korea initially appealed to me because it offered the best of two worlds — an American education in a Korean cultural setting. It felt like a double positive: I could experience Korea’s rich and innovative culture while earning a globally recognized American degree. Korea’s story of transformation from poverty to global leadership in just a few decades deeply inspired me; I wanted to learn from that model and one day apply those lessons to Tanzania. To be honest, I didn’t begin with a clear preference for any specific engineering field. Mechanical Engineering was broad enough to let me explore different domains and discover my own path; and it turned out to be the perfect choice. My experience at SUNY Korea helped me find my voice and direction as an engineer and as a person. I am forever grateful for that journey. What led you to join graduate school? Can you describe your experience working in the lab? Leeroy: After completing my undergraduate studies, I still had a deep hunger to learn more. I was the first in my family to graduate from both high school and college, so I wanted to continue paving the way and push my limits even further. My specialization is in control systems. My lab works on dynamics and control, and optimization of energy systems. Working in the DOC Lab has been an incredible experience. I have a great advisor, Dr. Docimo, who has been instrumental in shaping my research and professional growth. Over the past year, I also worked as a graduate part-time instructor, and this allowed me to revisit and deepen my understanding of control systems. Now, I am a full-time research assistant, and I appreciate how Dr. Docimo challenges and trusts his students. His high standards constantly push me to excel. With Gibson joining the team, who was my roommate in Korea by the way, I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. Gibson: I decided to pursue graduate school because I wanted to go deeper — to gain expertise and the tools to solve problems in my community. I also wanted to take a path that was different from what I’d seen before. In my family and among the people I know, many have pursued education and professional success in various fields — banking, teaching, business — but none had gone all the way to earn a Ph.D. I wanted to trailblaze that path, to show that it’s possible, and to contribute something different and meaningful to my people. I see it as creating a new option, one that combines technical excellence with purpose; so that together we can build something great. And well, I’ll admit: getting paid to learn a bit longer without having a real boss sounded like a pretty sweet deal too. Working in the DOC Lab has been a transformative experience. Dr. Donald Docimo’s mentorship has been nothing short of exceptional — his precision, vision, and trust push me to grow beyond my limits. It’s a space that demands both discipline and curiosity, and I’m grateful for the responsibility and freedom it offers. Interestingly, I wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for Leeroy. He once shared this program casually in our friend group chat — not expecting much from it. At first, neither did I. But when I looked into the lab’s work on energy systems and control design, I saw limitless potential and knew I had to apply. Fast forward to today — he’s the one who picked me up from the airport in Lubbock, just like he did four years ago in Incheon when I first arrived as a stranger. Back then he welcomed me to SUNY Korea; now he and his wife have welcomed me to Texas Tech. I’m grateful to call him a friend and brother for life. How did your time at SUNY Korea contribute to your personal and academic development? Leeroy: My time at SUNY Korea was transformative both academically and personally. The class sizes were small, and the professors were really caring, so I received personalized attention and strong mentorship. It was amazing to see professors across both major and non-major classes being genuinely invested in my learning and growth. The G&M Foundation trips and company visits, the ISF trips and other school events gave me exposure to Korea’s culture, history, and economic success. Learning about Korea’s journey from hardship to prosperity inspired me deeply. It made me believe that Zimbabwe, and Africa as a whole, can follow a similar path of development. I love the development and soft life in Korea, and this drives me to contribute to bringing this to my home. At SUNY Korea, I also discovered my passion for leadership and community-building. I founded the first volleyball club, served as a student ambassador, and led the International Students Association (ISA). In ISA, together with my team, we revived the club from dormancy and launched the now well-known Global Foods Fiesta, which celebrates the diverse cultures on campus SUNY Korea gave me more than knowledge; it gave me vision, confidence, and leadership opportunities. At SUNY, I learned to be a leader, an innovator, and a well-rounded global citizen. Gibson: SUNY Korea gave me so much more than my words can express, but I’ll try. I grew in leadership through roles such as Resident Assistant and Student Ambassador; I learned to adapt across cultures and found supportive mentors who shaped my journey. Through work-study positions and emceeing events like Convocation and the Incheon Fashion Festa, I developed confidence in public speaking and professional communication. The diverse community at IGC broadened my worldview, and the care from professors and staff helped me find balance through every challenge. Special thanks to Professor Terence, Dean Lasher, Dr. Linda Kim, the Admissions, External Relations, and Student Services teams, and the entire Mechanical Engineering department — their support was life-changing. The Shared Prosperity Scholarship, made possible by the G&M Foundation, made my education possible financially and spiritually, reminding me that support and hard work go hand in hand. If you could go back and give your student self one piece of advice, what would it be? Leeroy: Go the extra mile academically, socially, and culturally. Immerse yourself fully in Korean culture. Learn the language and engage with local students. Don’t be afraid to take initiative or make bold moves when you have an idea. You’re the visitor; take the first step to connect, grow, and contribute. Gibson: Do your homework more diligently, man! It sounds simple, but I now realize homework is a good model of how learning takes root – small, consistent practice and effort build discipline and attention to detail. Those habits translate into everything you do later in life. What challenges did you face during your studies, and how did you overcome them? Leeroy: Coming from a very modest background, I initially had limited computer knowledge. My classes often required programming, yet I barely knew how to use Windows at first. This made my early coursework challenging and my confidence took a hit. However, I took advantage of online resources like Coursera and MathWorks and used my student accounts to access free tutorials. Over time, I became proficient, and now, programming is a major part of my work, and I enjoy it a lot. Financially, I also faced challenges, especially during vacation periods when my scholarship didn’t cover rent and traveling home was too expensive. Thankfully, SUNY Korea’s and IGC’s work-study programs such as Campus Police and other on-campus opportunities helped me stay afloat. Gibson: My biggest challenge was sometimes feeling lost in the pace of college life. Assignments, midterms, homesickness, rising costs, and the occasional existential crisis about what it all meant. It was easy to switch into survival mode and lose sight of purpose. What kept me grounded was the SUNY Korea community, especially Student Services, who always checked in and helped me feel seen and supported. Having responsibilities and a sense of mission larger than myself helped me push through those seasons of doubt. What is your most memorable experience as a student? Leeroy: I have many great memories, but one that stands out is when Professor Woong Moo Lee publicly complimented my academic background after I answered a set of difficult questions in class. It was a moment of validation that I’ll never forget. Beyond academics, my most meaningful experiences came from the people that I met. When I served as ISA President and a Student Ambassador, I was able to connect with students from all over the world, and together we created friendships that became like family. My life at SUNY Korea was deeply enriched by those relationships, from walks in the park, Noraebang, late-night study sessions to cultural celebrations, every moment reminded me of the beauty of diversity and community. So, if I had to summarize it, I’d say my most memorable experience wasn’t just one event, but it was the friendships and sense of belonging that made SUNY Korea feel like home. Gibson: Co-hosting the Incheon Fashion Festa Musical Show in 2022 is my most memorable moment. It was the first time I was part of something so much bigger than myself — a major event celebrating SUNY Korea’s 10-year anniversary. Dr. Linda Kim had initially interviewed me for a front-desk job but instead recommended me as the event’s host — a decision that changed my confidence forever. That experience taught me to say yes to opportunities that stretch me and to trust in my potential to deliver. What advice would you offer to students pursuing their academic and professional goals? Leeroy: At SUNY Korea, the sky is the limit, but you have to reach for it. Take full advantage of the resources, professors, and offices that are there to support you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, seek mentorship, and build meaningful connections. Get involved in clubs and student organizations to find your community. For African students, the African family at IGC provides incredible support and belonging. Be curious, stay humble, and keep pushing, because every opportunity here can take you one step closer to your dreams. Gibson: The best advice I can give is one I received from one of my most impactful classes at SUNY Korea — EST 331: Business Ethics with Dr. Joseph Cabuay. On the very first day, he told us to strive for Phronesis: “the habit of making the right decisions and taking the right actions in context, while relentlessly pursuing excellence for a common good.” At the time, I didn’t fully grasp it, but it is slowly yet effectively becoming a guiding principle in everything I do. Whether in research, leadership, or personal life, that mindset of striving to act wisely and purposefully consistently leads to the best outcomes. True story.
2025.10.22 Hits 244
#27 Ariel Han, FIT Alumna, Representing Korea on the Miss Universe Stage As Miss Universe Korea 2024, Ariel Han’s journey started at SUNY Korea FIT, where she studied Fashion Business Management before heading to New York to continue her education. Her time at FIT gave her a deep dive into the fashion industry—starting behind the scenes and now owning the spotlight on the runway. Can you introduce yourself? Hi. I am Ariel Han, Miss Universe Korea 2024. I pursued an AAS degree in Fashion Business Management at SUNY Korea FIT in Spring 2023, and I am continuing my studies in New York to further develop my expertise in the global fashion industry. Fashion has always been my passion, and I aim to create a lasting impact by merging sustainability, cultural appreciation, and business innovation. Why did you choose to study at SUNY Korea FIT? I chose SUNY Korea FIT because it provided the perfect bridge between my Korean heritage and my dream of studying in New York, the global hub of fashion. SUNY Korea FIT offered a unique opportunity to gain a world-class education while staying connected to Korea's rapidly evolving fashion industry. The program also emphasized sustainability and business management, aligning perfectly with my long-term goal of becoming an ESG-focused fashion brand CEO. Describe your experience at SUNY Korea FIT. What is your most memorable experience at SUNY Korea? My experience at SUNY Korea FIT was truly transformative. It was not just about academics, but also about hands-on industry experience that shaped my perspective on fashion. Now, as Miss Universe Korea, I’ve had the opportunity to walk in many fashion shows and participate in global runway events. Every time I step onto the stage, I’m reminded of my days at FIT, working backstage as a helper during fashion shows. Those moments—preparing garments, assisting models, and witnessing the behind-the-scenes chaos—taught me the importance of teamwork, precision, and the effort it takes to bring a show to life. Looking back, those experiences were invaluable in shaping my understanding of the industry from both perspectives: behind the scenes and now, in the spotlight. What motivated you to participate in the Miss Universe competition? I have always believed that fashion and social impact go hand in hand, and Miss Universe provides a global platform to amplify my message. Competing in Miss Universe was not just about beauty or performance—it was an opportunity to empower women, promote sustainability, and represent Korea on a global stage. The Miss Universe competition is a global event where representatives from different countries showcase not only their beauty but also their intelligence, confidence, and advocacy work. Contestants participate in interviews, runway walks, national costume presentations, and social impact initiatives. Through this journey, I wanted to showcase the strength of Korean women, share our rich history, and inspire the next generation to embrace their authenticity. How has winning Miss Universe Korea influenced your personal and professional goals? Winning Miss Universe Korea has been a defining moment in my journey. It reinforced my belief that beauty and leadership are not mutually exclusive. They can coexist to create real change. This experience has given me a stronger voice to advocate for sustainability in the fashion industry, women’s empowerment, and cultural appreciation. It has also expanded my network, connecting me with leaders, designers, and changemakers in the global fashion industry, which will be invaluable as I work toward launching my own ESG-conscious fashion brand in the future. What is your next goal in life? My next goal is to continue my studies and career in New York this fall, where I can further develop my expertise in fashion sustainability and business leadership. I plan to gain real-world experience in the fashion industry, collaborating with brands that align with my vision for environmental and social responsibility. Beyond that, I am working on initiatives that promote Korean culture on the global stage—whether through fashion, storytelling, or advocacy. Eventually, I want to build my own brand that prioritizes ESG principles while celebrating cultural heritage. What advice would you offer to students pursuing their academic and professional goals? The most powerful thing you can do is stay true to yourself. Your unique experiences, background, and passions will set you apart. Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Whether it's studying abroad, or taking on leadership roles, each experience shapes you. The world is constantly evolving, especially in fields like fashion and business. Keep learning, stay open to new ideas, and be willing to innovate for a better future. Whether through fashion, activism, or leadership, your voice matters. Find a cause you’re passionate about and make an impact in your own way.
2025.02.27 Hits 7313