Stories

Whether students come to the Silicon Valley for research, design, or technology-focused studies, scholarships from Santa Clara University's Graduate Engineering Program provide vital financial aid, empowering students to begin their graduate studies and focus on achieving their academic and professional goals. Starting in the Fall of 2024, SCU’s School of Engineering provided over 50 one-time merit-based scholarships to graduate engineering students for the academic year. These scholarships are designed to assist students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and dedication to their respective programs. Hear from a few students on how this scholarship has impacted them, and their experiences in Santa Clara’s graduate programs.

Robotics and Automation, M.S. 2026

What has Santa Clara’s engineering graduate program taught you?

“In these initial months at Santa Clara, I've reacclimated to in-class lectures and the rhythm of academic life after a significant gap in work. This experience has helped me rebuild skills in theoretical learning, enabling me to bridge my practical industry background with deeper, research-focused insights. Adjusting to this transition has reinforced my ability to adapt and stay focused, which I find invaluable as I advance in the program.”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“The Santa Clara merit scholarship has significantly alleviated my financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies, and be free from financial constraints. Academically, this support has motivated me to fully engage in my coursework, research, and projects, knowing that my hard work is recognized. Personally, the scholarship has been a meaningful encouragement, validating my pursuit of an advanced degree and strengthening my commitment to making a lasting impact in robotics. It has given me confidence and stability, enabling me to make the most of my graduate experience.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other students considering graduate school?

“One piece of advice I'd give to students considering graduate school is to be clear about your goals and motivations. Graduate studies demand dedication and resilience, so knowing why you're pursuing this path can help you stay focused, especially when challenges arise. Whether it's to gain specialized skills, engage in research, or pivot careers, having a well-defined purpose will guide your decisions and make the journey more rewarding. Remember, graduate school is an opportunity to deepen not only your expertise but also your personal growth—so embrace the experience fully and seek out opportunities to learn, collaborate, and push your boundaries.”

Computer Science and Engineering, M.S. 2026

Shanaya’s passion for computer science began early on when she first encountered programming in the 8th grade. She was inspired by her teacher, who recognized her love for solving puzzles, sparking her interest in the potential of technology. Throughout high school, undergraduate studies, and beyond, her passion for computer science thrived. Shanaya is deeply motivated by the idea of using technology to create real-world impact and has decided after five years of industry experience to increase her understanding of advanced computing and AI. For her, a master’s degree offers the academic rigor, mentorship, and resources to help her build on my technical foundation and explore new applications in fields like artificial intelligence.

What has Santa Clara’s engineering graduate program taught you?

“Santa Clara’s program emphasizes a balance of technical depth and practical application. I am working on projects that challenge me to approach problems from multiple perspectives. This program has reinforced in me the importance of thoughtful design and collaboration.”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“Receiving the merit scholarship has been incredibly encouraging. It’s allowed me to focus more fully on my studies. Personally, it’s reinforced my confidence and affirmed that my hard work and dedication are recognized. This support has helped alleviate some financial pressure, enabling me to dedicate more time to my studies.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other students considering graduate school? 

“I would advise students to choose a graduate program that resonates with their personal and professional goals. Graduate school is an opportunity to specialize, so it’s important to find a program that offers the courses, mentorship, and community support that will drive their growth. Being intentional about one’s path can lead to a more enriching and fulfilling experience.”

Electrical and Computer Engineering, B.S./M.S. 2026

Sarah is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a focus on Radio Frequency (RF), Wireless Communications, and Applied Electromagnetics. Having completed a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Santa Clara, with a minor in Electrical Engineering, her interest in electrical engineering sparked during an introductory course on electrical circuits. Each quarter, Sarah found that the electrical courses she was completing for her minor quickly became her favorites. Her choice to focus on RF was influenced by her love for physics and interest in satellite operations, and she believes having cross-disciplinary expertise in RF and mechanical engineering is an ideal background for a career in space systems.

What has Santa Clara’s engineering graduate program taught you?

“Santa Clara University's graduate program has highlighted the importance of active class participation. Many of my professors bring extensive industry experience to the classroom, which enriches our learning. I recognize the value of engaging with them since they dedicate their evenings after work to share their expertise with us.”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“Being awarded a merit scholarship has given me a sense of accomplishment and encourages me to keep working hard academically as I always have.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other students considering graduate school?

“I would tell any student interested in graduate school that it's only going to be worth it if they are truly passionate about their field and are eager to learn.”

Electrical and Computer Engineering, B.S./M.S. 2026

Christopher’s academic journey began as a Santa Clara undergraduate with a double major in Mathematics and Computer Science. His passion for math and programming inspired him to find new ways to apply the mathematical concepts he had learned, which is when he discovered Santa Clara’s Electrical and Computer Engineering program. Santa Clara’s program caught his eye due to the unique way it combines mathematical concepts, real-world applications, and hands-on experience. His newfound passion for electrical engineering courses, involving building circuits and robots, ultimately led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, with a primary focus on control systems.

What inspired your passion for your field of study, and how has that passion shaped your academic career?

“With passions for math and robotics, I decided that I would follow my mathematics and computer science and engineering undergrad with a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering and a primary focus area on control systems. Personally, I would like to shout out Maria Kyrarini (current electrical and computer engineering professor who sparked my interest in robotics), Sarah Kate Wilson (retired electrical and computer engineering professor who majored in mathematics during her undergrad), and Daniel Ostrov (current mathematics professor who sparked my interest in differential equations) for guiding me to the area of control systems, which closely ties to robotics and involves plenty of differential equations, my favorite kind of math!”

What has Santa Clara’s engineering graduate program taught you?

“Well, since this is my first quarter as a graduate student, I can't say much about the skills or lessons I've learned from SCU's graduate program specifically. However, out of all of the skills I developed during my undergrad, I find math to be a highly valuable skill in my academic journey so far! Not only did it allow me to excel in many of my undergrad classes, math also allowed me to think and learn on my own thanks to my undergrad mathematics major's emphasis on thinking logically and solving problems in abstract yet powerful ways!”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“Academically, the merit scholarship helped me and my family with tuition, allowing me to continue with grad school. I saw this scholarship as a sign of encouragement to keep on going with grad school. To me, that scholarship indicated that I indeed belong in the graduate program!”

Computer Science and Engineering, M.S. 2026

Amarnath’s academic journey was inspired by his motivation to deepen his understanding of artificial intelligence in the modern world, software development, and web and game development. His college degrees and professional experiences provide a strong foundation for his passion in computer science. However, he was motivated to pursue a graduate degree at Santa Clara to obtain advanced skills for designing AI applications that have a lasting, real-world impact. Amarnath values the importance of teamwork, analytical thinking, and practical applications and has enjoyed being able to simultaneously improve his technical skills, underlining the importance of balance between scientific expertise and societal impact.

What inspired your passion for your field of study, and how has that passion shaped your academic career?

“The first time I got access to a computer was when I was in my 4th grade. At that time, this machine, for me, was only a means for playing games and watching anime. But, as time went on, I got more curious and interested in how everything worked. Starting from the cursor movement to the behind-the-scenes processes whenever I moved the cursor or clicked on something. My dad was adept in computers and had built his own custom PC in 1991, well before the tech boom. I think it is safe to say, I get my inquisitiveness for technology from him. He served as my inspiration to take up Computer Science academically and as a career.”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“As an international student from India, pursuing higher education in the United States comes with significant financial challenges. Therein, the merit scholarship has had a great significance and impact. It has helped ease part of the burden and now my primary concern can be my academics and my professional objectives without being under any financial stress. The encouragement received has enabled me to involve myself in different areas and give a positive account of myself in my discipline. This grant has endeared me to aim higher and give it my all because it is an acknowledgment of my academic skills. It has reshaped whatever looked full of difficulties from an easy to manage one. Making me explore all I can at Santa Clara University and much more beyond.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other students considering graduate school?

“I would encourage you to heed and follow your natural inquisitiveness and desire about what you really want and love. In place of doing some only generic kind of study, the master’s program is broad and requires one to work with other students which brings out the communicative aspect of its subjects. Activities such as moving out of one’s comfort zone, staying firm in the face of obstacles, and letting oneself learn from new experiences are definitely worth every minute of the learning environment.”

Computer Science and Engineering, M.S. 2026

Shreya is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering. She has always been curious about how technology works and how it can solve problems. As she learned more, her interest in machine learning and modeling grew, pushing her to focus on areas such as algorithms and data science. All of these attributes contribute to a solid foundation in machine learning, and a graduate degree gives Shreya the chance to work on challenging projects and develop the skills needed to go further in this field.

What has Santa Clara’s engineering graduate program taught you?

“So far, I’ve learned Design and Analysis of Algorithms and Computer Architecture, which have helped me build a strong foundation. Going forward, I plan to take more challenging courses in machine learning and software so I can deepen my knowledge and be ready for advanced projects in these areas. The best part about Santa Clara’s grad program is that it provides flexibility to tailor my courses, allowing me to focus on areas I’m most passionate about.”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“Receiving this merit scholarship has not only been a financial relief but has also validated my commitment to academic excellence. It has allowed me to focus more on my studies and projects without as much financial pressure, encouraging me to dive deeper into my coursework and extracurriculars.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other students considering graduate school?

“Make sure you’re passionate about your field because graduate school is a big commitment. Focus on the areas that truly interest you, and try to get hands-on experience through internships and projects. Building a strong network in school and beyond can also be very helpful.”

Computer Science and Engineering, M.S. 2026

Soniya is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering. With the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, Soniya was motivated to deepen her understanding of the field by learning more, engaging in research, and improving her skills, to make meaningful contributions in this field. Her passion for computer science and AI began when Google’s LaMDA AI model was revealed. Although more advanced AI models, like OpenAI's ChatGPT, have since been unveiled, LaMDA marked the beginning of her excitement for the possibilities of AI. This experience motivated her to explore AI technologies further.

What has Santa Clara’s engineering graduate program taught you?

“Even though I’ve only been at SCU for a short time, since late September 2024, I’ve already learned a lot. The professors are amazing and always ready to help. SCU also hosts various seminars and hackathons, providing lots of opportunities to learn and network. The environment is very active and supportive, with so many events to participate in.”

How has this merit scholarship impacted you?

“Receiving the merit scholarship has been an encouraging recognition of my efforts and potential. Academically, it has helped reduce some financial stress. Personally, it has given me confidence and motivation to keep pushing myself. It’s nice to be recognized for my work.”

What is one piece of advice you would give other students considering graduate school?

“My advice is to make the most of every learning opportunity and get involved in projects that excite you. Graduate school is about more than just classes. Take advantage of seminars, hackathons, and other events. Connect with your professors and classmates, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone. Being in the heart of Silicon Valley, surrounded by innovative and excited people, adds an extra layer of inspiration and opportunity.”