McNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY
Chiamanda Ononiwu, sophomore at McNeese State University, had the opportunity to assist in a semester-long virtual AI project with the Breakthrough Tech AI Program through a partnership with the U.S.-based satellite intelligence company Ursa Space Systems. This provided a chance for her to experience hands-on, team-based work to solve real-world problems.
Ononiwu, from Abuja, Nigeria, learned to manage deadlines, communicate challenges early and support teammates by stepping up when others needed help.
“This experience strengthened my ability to work in a professional setting, which will be invaluable as I pursue future internships and a full-time career,” says the electrical engineering major.
Ononiwu used technical knowledge learned from the introductory computer science class along with classroom habits like being attentive and organized to help her stay on track throughout the project.
“Balancing my fall semester classes, extracurricular activities and this project taught me accountability, time management and the importance of following through on commitments,” she expressed.
“After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to get some industry experience and pursue a master’s degree in robotics with a focus on physical AI and human-machine interaction,” she says. “Following graduation, I will return to the industry and hopefully design intelligent systems that can safely interact with people.”
Ononiwu tells students searching for similar opportunities to surround themselves with driven, supportive people and to not let academic level be a discouragement because opportunities are at every stage.
