October marked the inception of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a new establishment here at Seton Hall known as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE, pronounced I-Triple E). This globally recognized institute is accessible to engineering and computing students. With a focus on cultivating academic and professional growth, IEEE fosters a collaborative environment where students can establish connections with industry leaders. This institute is predominantly student-led, an initiative that promotes leadership skills and autonomy within its students.
In addition to providing a collaborative space for engineering students, this institute pushes its members to gain practical experience with experiential learning. IEEE aims to have students apply data science to real-world scenarios by participating in international conferences and coding competitions.
The club’s student-driven leadership team oversees the club’s initiatives and operations. The board is advised by Dr. Manfred Minimair, Dr. Hsin-Yi Lin, and Dr. Shajina Anand from the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. While having a faculty team, this is a student-driven organization; as Dr. Minimair said IEEE aims to “empower students to take the lead, create, and innovate.”
Jennifer Lawless, a graduate assistant for the Data Science program and the student branch secretary, said IEEE provides a network of engineers to students involved in this organization. “There are so many engineers and experts in different fields that we can meet and learn from, providing endless opportunities for growth and collaboration,” Lawless said.
Within this institute, Lawless said that IEEE is innovating within new forms of technology by completing AI training and applying AI to various business functions.“This hands-on experience will empower us to develop innovative solutions and stay ahead in the tech world,” Lawless said.
Lawless said being IEEE’s secretary has enriched her adeptness in technical engineering and organization and fueled her passions in the field. She said that IEEE “has given [her] a platform to connect with industry professionals and academic experts, fueling [her] passion for innovation.”
While there are many technical advantages to participating in this program, Lawless said she wants students to develop personal networks and tangible skills.
“My hope is that they leave with not just the knowledge but also the connections and confidence to succeed in their careers,” Lawless said.
Ashley Mathew, a senior studying computer science, is IEEE’s treasurer. Within this organization, Mathew said she is looking forward to the opportunity to support the development of this branch through fundraising activities.
“It's rewarding to see our efforts translate into meaningful activities and events for our members,” Mathew said.
Mathew said that as treasurer, she can orchestrate projects that facilitate hands-on experiences and promote collaboration between students across technological and engineering disciplines. She also said she plans to organize workshops on emerging technologies, host speakers from specific industries, and participate in AI competitions.
“These are all opportunities for our members to gain valuable experience, make connections, and build skills that will help them in their careers,” Mathew said.
She added that she would like students to learn and understand collaboration skills, such as teamwork and networking, while in IEEE.
“I would like students to take away not only a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of engineering, technology, and AI, but also the value of teamwork, leadership, and networking,” Mathew said. “These skills will serve all technology enthusiasts both in their academic and professional lives.”
Dr. Minimair is the co-chair of the Northern Jersey chapter of IEEE and the academic advisor of the IEEE student branch. Within his role as academic advisor, he said he would like students to utilize their shared passion for engineering and developing its technological applications.
The IEEE network aspires to connect Seton Hall students with the global community of engineering and technology, providing students in these fields the chance to explore job opportunities and gain practical experience with tangible projects. IEEE is open to all students.
Tiffany Clay is a writer for The Setonian's Campus Life section. She can be reached at tiffany.clay@student.shu.edu.
