Webinar Recap | Lehigh University College of Engineering Alumni Sharing Session

On April 19, 2024, HYP Global hosted an online alumni sharing session featuring graduates from Lehigh University’s College of Engineering. Three Lehigh engineering alumni were invited to share their experiences regarding graduate program selection, academic experiences, career planning, and their transition from university life to professional careers.

Guest Speakers

Alumni Speaker: Zhiquan Tian

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology

• Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Lehigh University

• Currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Toronto

• Former Engineer at Philips

• Will join McKinsey & Company as a Consultant

Alumni Speaker: Robert Huang

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University (Taiwan)

• Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology

• Master’s Degree in Data Science, Lehigh University

• Currently working as a Supply Chain Analyst at PowerSecure

Alumni Speaker: Zhendong Li

• Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Mathematics, Shanghai University

• Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Lehigh University

During the webinar, the alumni introduced the characteristics of Lehigh University’s engineering programs and shared their personal growth journeys, including exploring research opportunities, technical positions, and consulting careers from an engineering background.

Choosing an Engineering Field: Exploring the Intersection of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering

At the beginning of the webinar, the alumni introduced their academic backgrounds and experiences studying at Lehigh University.

One alumnus discussed his experience in the Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) program at Lehigh University. He explained that ISE combines elements of mathematics and computer science, and many research areas overlap with applied mathematics, computational mathematics, and operations research within the U.S. higher education system.

In terms of coursework, the ISE program places stronger emphasis on programming and computational skills compared with traditional mathematics programs. Compared with Computer Science programs, ISE also includes more theoretical foundations and analytical approaches.

He explained that for students with mathematics or engineering backgrounds but limited programming experience, ISE provides a pathway that connects mathematical theory, computational technology, and real-world applications.

He also introduced Lehigh University’s Engineering Management program, which combines engineering knowledge with business and management concepts. The program allows students to explore interdisciplinary areas while maintaining a strong technical foundation.

From Engineering Roles to Consulting Careers: Exploring Career Transitions

Another alumnus shared his professional development journey.

With an undergraduate background in Mechanical Engineering, he began his career at Philips after graduation, working in product development and focusing on mechanical structure design for new products. His role also involved collaboration with teams in electrical engineering and other technical fields.

During his professional experience, he participated in projects involving external consulting firms. Through interactions with consulting teams, he gradually gained an understanding of the consulting industry’s work model and became interested in exploring this career path.

To expand his professional opportunities, he later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and actively explored opportunities to enter consulting during his studies.

He shared that he completed an internship at McKinsey & Company and plans to continue developing his career in consulting.

Through this experience, he believes that an engineering background not only supports technical development roles but can also provide valuable advantages for careers in strategy, consulting, and other business-related fields.

Lehigh University Learning Experience: A Supportive Academic Environment and Campus Culture

While discussing their application and study experiences at Lehigh University, the alumni shared their perspectives on the university.

One alumnus explained that when applying to U.S. universities, he initially considered both master’s and Ph.D. programs because he hoped to continue exploring research opportunities.

After learning more about Lehigh University, he found that the university offered a supportive academic environment and that its engineering programs had a strong reputation.

He noted that as a private university, Lehigh provides close connections between students, faculty, and administrators, creating a strong sense of community.

Additionally, the Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) program has gained recognition in its field, which was another important reason for his decision to choose Lehigh University.

Engineering Education and Career Development: The Long-Term Value of Professional Skills

During the webinar, the alumni also discussed how engineering education has influenced their career development.

The alumnus with a Mechanical Engineering background shared that his undergraduate technical knowledge and previous experience in mechanical structure design helped him successfully adapt to his product development role at Philips.

He believes that the professional skills, practical experience, and continuous learning abilities developed during university serve as important foundations for long-term career growth.

Another alumnus explained that his experience at Lehigh University expanded his understanding of both technical and professional development opportunities.

Whether pursuing academic research or exploring industry careers, an engineering background can provide strong support for future growth.

Alumni Q&A: Addressing Questions About Program Selection and Career Planning

During the interactive Q&A session, the alumni discussed topics that students were particularly interested in, including:

• The curriculum and suitable candidates for the Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) program;

• The relationship between the Engineering Management program and technical backgrounds;

• How engineering students can plan their career paths;

• Experiences transitioning from technical positions to consulting careers;

• The connection between graduate education and future employment opportunities.

Through this alumni sharing session, participants gained a deeper understanding of the academic characteristics of Lehigh University’s College of Engineering programs and received valuable insights into graduate study and career development through the real experiences of alumni.