Second cohort of Watson College Scholars reflects on time at Binghamton University

When the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science holds its 2026 Commencement on Friday, among the hundreds of graduates will be 12 students from the second cohort of the Watson College Scholars Program.

The program, which started in fall 2021, offers opportunities and financial support to aid undergraduates who are strong candidates for graduate study and a professional career in engineering or computer science. It has been recognized with an Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight into Academia magazine.

Some of this year’s graduates reflect on their experiences as Watson Scholars, how they passed on their knowledge to younger cohorts, and what’s next for them.

Bryan Cabrera

Hometown: Dominican Republic

Major: Industrial and systems engineering

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

I am grateful to be a part of this program. It allowed me to find individuals in a similar situation, and it helped me to meet people and create friendships right away. The program also helped me optimize my résumé and overall mentality.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

I have now been a mentor for two years and mentored several scholars. The main thing I emphasize to all my mentees is the importance of getting experience. Experience will always be king, and nothing is more valuable than it. Having had the opportunity to do several internships, I can attest to the importance that industry places on having internships and co-op experience.

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it?

For three years, I have been working 25 hours a week and taking an average of 16 credits per semester. This has been very challenging and something that taught me how to properly manage time. I am still going through this — however, it is now something that I am accustomed to.

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

Watson College helped me by teaching me the necessary skills and content needed to succeed in industry.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

SUNY Distinguished Professor Mark Poliks. I have been doing research under him for the last three years. This opportunity allowed me to get early experience, which ended up snowballing into industry-specific opportunities. To this day, I am still doing research, and I have worked on long-term projects with both GE Healthcare and GE Vernova.

What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University?

Hanging out with friends, especially Friday nights. Being able to unwind and relax after a long week.

What are your plans after graduation?

I will be doing an environmental health and safety internship at Merck & Co. Then I will return to Binghamton University for my 4+1 degree in engineering management.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

Get as much experience as possible. Make sure you utilize your time wisely. Remember why you came to college, and work as hard as you can so you reach your aspirations and dreams.

Jessica Chen

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

Major: Computer science

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

Being part of the Watson Scholars has been a meaningful experience, and I am grateful that I had this opportunity. This program has shaped me to be the person I am today, by helping me grow professionally and personally, with its emphasis on the pillars of academic achievement, professionalism, networking, and community service. I have formed strong bonds with other scholars in my own cohort and other cohorts. I especially had fun with scholars during my first year’s Skate Estate event, sophomore year’s Harvard WeCode conference, junior year’s weekly CS Pathways, and senior year’s Ireland trip. These are events I will never forget, and I am thankful for these meaningful connections.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

I hope the younger scholars know that they can always reach out to me if they have any questions about classes, extracurriculars, career opportunities, or if they simply want someone to talk to! Some of the advice I always give is to get involved, make meaningful connections, and utilize the resources on campus.

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it?

The hardest challenge was adjusting to college life and balancing all my commitments and responsibilities. Thankfully, I had support from the WCSP and my peers. Most importantly, I had my best friend, Google Calendar!

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

Watson College provided me with support. The Watson Career and Alumni Connections office prepared me for interviews, revised my résumé, and gave me advice for conferences. Professors and faculty have assisted me through my courses. And the WCSP also gave me many opportunities, ranging from industry visits to financial aid in conferences.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

I absolutely loved CS 373 with Lecturer Tom Kilcoyne. I enjoyed the material and how engaging the projects were, but most of all, Tom is one of the most genuine professors I have ever had. I often found myself in his office hours while I studied, just because it was a comfortable place to work, knowing he was patient and willing to answer any questions I had. He made me learn that it was OK to ask for help.

What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University?

There are way too many amazing memories to count! I have been heavily involved on campus throughout my academic career. These include being the first-year representative for Hong Kong Exchange Square, a student support assistant for Residential Life, and the treasurer for Women in Tech. A recent favorite memory of mine is being Sylvester, the mascot for Mountainview! (Shh, this might have to be a secret.)

What are your plans after graduation?

I will be continuing my education in computer science at Binghamton University through the 4+1 program after my summer internship in the technology industry.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

Enjoy your college experience! Work hard, but don’t forget to play hard as well. Try your best, but it is OK to have off days.

Thiara Lantigua

Hometown: Pennsauken, New Jersey

Major: Mechanical engineering

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

For me, it was a privilege to be selected as a Watson College Scholar in my senior year of high school. This program offers so many opportunities and events that students should take advantage of. I made strong bonds with Jide [Obioha] and Bryan [Cabrera] during program events, and Isabella [Vidal], Chloe [Redd], Jessica [Chen], Ofelia Huerta, and [Assistant Director for the Watson Office for Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion] Richard [Quiles] during our trip to Ireland.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

I gave my mentees advice about which classes to take and where to take them, as well as telling them to apply to internships to gain experience.

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it?

Majoring in mechanical engineering was a challenge, taking all these hard classes like calculus, physics, solid mechanics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. It was so challenging for me, and I struggled a lot. However, I made it! As a first-generation college student, I can proudly say I will graduate with my bachelor’s in mechanical engineering. So many times I thought I was not going to make it, but I did! I overcame it because I didn’t give up and kept going.

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

I used to go to Watson Advising often to check with an advisor that I was doing good and on track. Jennifer Drake-Deese [Watson Advising director] was always very helpful and nice. Stacey Brown [assistant director, Watson Career and Alumni Connections] helped me to tailor my résumé many times. Caprice Chavez [former scholars program director] and Carmen Jones [former Watson College assistant dean] were always open to chat, and both will have a place in my heart — they were so supportive.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

Assistant Director and Lecturer Koen Gieskes from the Engineering Design Division was so nice to me! I took the grad school course with him and was telling him how I wanted to go to graduate school, so he was giving me great advice and mock interview preps.

What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University?

Going to the Late Nite events on Saturdays in the Union was so fun — that Late Nite popcorn was always so delicious, and I have so many stuffed animals because of their events. Free events will always have my heart.

What are your plans after graduation?

I am currently applying and looking for a job in the Rochester or Buffalo area. I want to work in the energy, HVAC, or project-management field because of my internship experiences. I will be getting my MBA because I want to be a project manager in the future.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

Definitely take advantage of industry visits and networking events. Talk to sponsors and make connections during Watson Scholars celebrations, gain mentorship experience, and apply to the global immersion trip. Don’t miss any opportunities!

Jenylee Diaz Munoz

Hometown: Queens, New York

Major: Computer science

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

Being part of the Watson Scholars is a defining part of my Binghamton experience. I’m especially grateful to be in a program that represents and uplifts marginalized communities in engineering disciplines. Entering Binghamton as a first-generation student who was the first to move away for college, so it was difficult to find myself at times. The program provided me structure and reinforced that I was not alone in my journey, because there were others in my cohort who were in similar situations as I was. I’ll always remember meeting some of my close friends through this program. Being part of this program definitely made us closer and allowed us to grow personally, academically, and professionally alongside each other.

With our growth, we also got to witness the program evolve. As a member of the second cohort, it is amazing to see how much support the program has received and the new faces who have joined us. During my student appointments at my job on campus, I’m always happy to hear when a student mentions they are a scholar. The program provides that community and network like no other, and it’s something that has shaped my college experience and who I am today.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

One of the biggest things I share with younger scholars is to put themselves out there and get involved! The mentorship program has allowed me to meet those outside of my cohort and strengthen my connections within the program. The Watson Scholars program provides that necessary structure and support needed for people entering Binghamton. I highly encourage taking advantage and seek out those opportunities. Talk frequently with your mentors to learn about their experience, and when the time comes, pick up a mentee. Giving back to the program and the community is rewarding as you get to meet those within the program and understand your peers more.

I became a mentor within the Watson Scholars my sophomore year to an incoming first-year computer science student. I want others to learn from my journey and at the same time — it provides me the space to reflect on my path. I also try to share lessons from my own experiences so they can avoid common mistakes and learn. As for specifics, I mainly focused on professional and personal development, like scheduling classes, navigating conferences, networking, and much more.

For new scholars coming in, it is OK not to have everything figured out early on. I do suggest staying proactive and open to learning, because that is how you will find your way in life.

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it?

One of my biggest challenges as an undergraduate was taking on a lot of responsibility and facing competing deadlines. I really wanted to make the most of my time, which led me to take on a lot. I have two jobs, I’m on the executive board of a club, I participated in technical programs, and I balanced a full computer science courseload. By my junior and senior years, I was overwhelmed with juggling everything, and I also added applying to graduate programs. There were times I had three tests in one day or even back-to-back conferences! I felt overwhelmed and had to make difficult decisions about how to prioritize my time and decide what was best for my future.

What helped me navigate those moments of stress was to take a step back and plan accordingly. Plan yourself for success, but do not forget to take some time for yourself. Whether that be spending time with your friends or taking a nap, do something that keeps you motivated!

I wouldn’t say I regret my choices. My experiences taught me resilience, time management, and how to stay grounded during difficult times. I’m glad I was able to learn, and I know these are skills that I can continue to carry with me moving forward.

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

The Watson College Scholars Program has played a huge role in my academic and professional growth. I’ve been fortunate to receive the support that has lessened the stress on finances for tuition and professional initiatives. For instance, the scholars program has provided me financial support for conferences such as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers National Conference and the Harvard WECode Conference. Experiences like these helped me build my network, go through interview processes, and gain industry exposure through workshops. The program accelerated my growth and opened doors that I might not have had otherwise.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

A class I really love and highly recommend for computer science students is CS 415: Social Media Data Sci Pipeline with Assistant Professor Kaicheng Yang. The class was a semester-long project that you build in increments alongside a partner. Through this project, I gained exposure to real-world data, scalable pipelines, and ways to analyze and visualize data.

What stood out to me was how hands-on the class was. The lectures introduced and taught you the foundations, but it was your responsibility to design the pipeline. I quickly ran into the problem of dealing with collecting over one million posts, leading me to reevaluate my approach.

Professor Yang was supportive and encouraging throughout the process. His code comments and 1-on-1 meetings with groups gave us the confidence to continue in our project. Overall, the class changed the way I approach problem-solving, and it introduced a possible path in data science for me.

What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University?

There are so many wonderful memories, it’s really hard to pick! A lot of my favorite memories would be when I’m with my friends. I’ll always remember the conversations I had with my suitemates during my first year and the random walks on campus we would go on. There are also the trips I’ve had with friends and the everyday moments. From grabbing food at Nite Owl to studying for hours together, those moments are what made my Binghamton experience.

I’ll also look back on the time I spent with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). I’ve met a lot of my closest friends there, and I am forever grateful. The club provided me a community where I belonged and could grow as an individual. I do not think I would be the same person I am today without the mentors and friends I’ve met at SHPE.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan on pursuing graduate school for a master’s of computer science. I am interested in delving more into artificial intelligence and software engineering to help empower marginalized communities. I’m also excited to start my internship at IBM in Poughkeepsie, New York, this summer! After completing my master’s degree, I plan on entering the industry full time.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

Start early and use your resources. I suggest taking initiative in your job or internship search, and use your breaks and free time to grow and learn. Look for programs or projects that can improve your technical skills in your first or second year. Utilize professional development resources like the Watson Career and Alumni Connections (WCAC) office for résumé and interview practice.

And my biggest piece of advice is to get involved and find your community. Surround yourself with people who make you happy and challenge you to grow, because those are the relationships that will define your journey and stay with you long after graduation.

Jidechukwu Obioha

Hometown: Bronx, New York

Major: Computer engineering

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

I enjoyed being a part of the program, and I learnt a lot through hanging out with fellow scholars, both in my cohort and in other cohorts.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

My biggest piece of advice is to actively pursue professional development and take full advantage of the student organizations and on-campus resources available to you.

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

The Watson Career and Alumni Connections (WCAC) office does a tremendous job providing professional development support and exposing students to a wide range of opportunities. I took advantage of their résumé reviews, mock interview prep, and early access to job and internship fairs. The Watson Advising office was equally valuable, guiding me through course planning and degree requirements whenever I had questions.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

I enjoyed taking Embedded System Design with Distinguished Teaching Professor Douglas Summerville. He gives amazing explanations and makes himself available outside of class to help solidify challenging concepts. It was the first course that made me truly feel like a computer engineer.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

Take full advantage of all of Watson College’s resources. Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!

Chloe Redd 

Hometown: Kingston, NY 

Major: Computer science 

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other? 

Watson Scholars could be described as a “landing place” for me. When I was unsure of what my next steps should be or needed support, I knew I could meet with the directors or coordinators of the program, or see my peers at meetings and events. As a transfer student in Cohort 3, I mostly bonded with Cohort 2 as they were in the same graduating class as me, and we took many courses together. It was great to have study buddies and people I could stress over coursework with. 

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program? 

I have shared my academic experiences with my younger peers. I often gave professor and course recommendations, and provided tutoring. 

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it? 

Staying motivated was a big challenge for me throughout all of my years. Reading news articles about poor outcomes for my major and big tech layoffs was demoralizing. I overcame this by remembering how much I like computer science. 

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar? 

I had amazing professors and advisors that were always willing to provide support. When I experienced any difficulties in a course or even wanted to express interest in a subject for more guidance, I knew I could reach out and get prompt responses. 

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why? 

While at Binghamton, I took two classes with Anurag Andhare and appreciated his passion for his subjects and student outcomes. He wants and expects the best of his students and reminds them often of this. He gives meaningful coursework and great career advice.

 What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University? 

Some of my favorite moments while here were the late nights I worked on projects on campus. When I took painting classes, I would go to Fine Arts and get in “the zone.” I spent many late nights in the computer labs in the Engineering Building. The walk through Hinman and up Skyward Trail to Hillside was so peaceful after some quiet time working. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

I am moving to the Boston area and continuing my job search there. I will be working on microcredentials and personal projects, as well. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students? 

Have hope in your heart!

Isabella Vidal

Hometown: New York City

Major: Computer science

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

It was an incredible experience; we were able to form such strong friendships with each other through our shared experiences in computer science classes, conferences, and global immersion trips.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

How to navigate balancing the workload in increasingly demanding computer science classes, internship applications, and looking into the many different fields and career paths we can go into with our degree.

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it?

Managing workload and figuring out what worked for me specifically was key to being able to balance everything efficiently. While some study tips may work great for most people, something that works for other people may not work for you. Finding my own strategies by working with my strengths and weaknesses is what allowed me to find the best way to succeed for me personally.

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

The most important thing to me was having a support system and people who I could reach out to and relate to. Beyond the connections we made with fellow students, the connections we made when traveling and networking also made a huge difference in my academic journey.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

CS 350 with Assistant Professor Jayson Boubin, CS 436 with Assistant Professor Adnan Siraj Rakin, and CS 581A with Professor of Empire Innovation Nancy Guo were all classes with professors who not only had an incredible amount of knowledge on their topics, but who were passionate about us as students truly learning and understanding the content.

What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University?

My favorite memories are spending time with friends and traveling with the Watson Scholars program to places we had never been before.

What are your plans after graduation?

My plans after graduation are to pursue higher education and explore medical applications of machine learning in the field of dentistry.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

My advice to future students is to take full advantage of the program. The program has so much to offer, and it is what you make of it, so connect with your fellow scholars and take advantage of all of the opportunities the program gives you!

Juan Gallardo Vidal

Hometown: Staten Island, New York

Major: Biomedical engineering

What was it like being part of the Watson Scholars? Did you form strong bonds with each other?

Being part of the Watson Scholars program gave me a strong sense of community early on. Coming into college, it can be difficult to find people who are going through similar academic and personal challenges, but the program created that environment. Over time, those connections turned into real friendships, and it became a group of people I could rely on for both support and motivation.

What kind of knowledge have you passed down to the younger scholars as they have joined the program?

One of the biggest things I try to pass down is how important it is to take initiative and put yourself in uncomfortable situations. Whether that is joining research, taking on leadership roles, or applying for opportunities you do not feel fully qualified for, those experiences are where you grow the most. I also emphasize the importance of time management and being intentional with your commitments, especially when balancing academics with extracurriculars.

What was your hardest challenge as an undergraduate, and how did you overcome it?

One of my biggest challenges was balancing a heavy academic workload with my responsibilities as an EMT for Harpur’s Ferry. There were times where I had to manage long shifts, late nights, and still stay on top of demanding coursework. I overcame this by becoming more disciplined with my time, learning how to prioritize effectively, and accepting that not everything will go perfectly. That experience pushed me to become more organized and resilient, and it shaped how I handle pressure today.

How did Watson College help you along your academic journey as a Watson Scholar?

Watson College provided both structure and opportunity throughout my academic journey. Through workshops, mentorship, and access to resources, I was able to develop professional skills early on, from networking to communication. It also gave me exposure to different career paths, and helped me build confidence in navigating the transition from school to the professional world.

Was there a particular class or professor that made a big impression on you? Why?

One class that stood out to me was Medical Device Reverse Engineering. It gave me a new perspective on how devices are designed, evaluated, and improved, and helped me think more critically about how engineering decisions impact real-world use. It was one of the first times I felt like I was directly applying what I was learning to problems that exist in healthcare today.

What are your favorite memories from your time at Binghamton University?

Some of my favorite memories come from my time with Harpur’s Ferry. Whether it was being on calls, training new members, or spending time with the team outside of shifts, those experiences were some of the most meaningful parts of my college career. It is where I grew the most, both personally and professionally, and where I built some of my closest relationships.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in biomedical engineering, where I hope to further develop my skills in medical device design and analysis. Long term, I am interested in working in the medical device industry, focusing on developing technologies that improve patient care and outcomes.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to future Watson students?

Take advantage of every opportunity, even if you are not sure you are ready for it. Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. At the same time, be intentional with your time and commit to the things that truly matter to you. The students who get the most out of the program are the ones who actively engage and push themselves.