The Engineering Student Experience Podcast

Episode 41 - What is Materials Engineering?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:00:08 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores the field of materials engineering by interviewing two faculty members in the Chemical & Materials Engineering Department at Cal Poly Pomona. Dr. Vilupanur Ravi is a Professor specializing in advanced materials, coatings, and corrosion, and Dr. Jonathan Puthoff is a Professor specializing in materials characterization and modeling.

During the interview, Professors Ravi and Puthoff describe what the field of materials engineering is all about, the types of courses materials engineering students take, the types of jobs available for materials engineers in industry and government, as well as the importance of getting advanced degrees in their field.

Cal Poly Pomona Chemical & Materials Engineering Department: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/cme/index.shtml

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on February 17, 2026 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 40 - Engineers at an energy company

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:52:34 -0700

In this episode, Paul learns what it's like to work at an energy company with Justin Valencia and Brittany Williams, both of whom work for Chevron at their refinery in El Segundo, CA. Justin has a background in mechanical engineering, and is the Technology & Innovation Manager for Downstream, Midstream, and Chemicals. Brittany has a background in chemical engineering, and is a Short Range Process Engineer.

During the interview, Justin and Brittany describe what their day-to-day work is like at a refinery. They discuss the various activities engineers are engaged in at the refinery and throughout Chevron’s many other operations. And finally, Justin and Brittany discuss how engineering students can better prepare themselves for a career at an energy company like Chevron.

Chevron's website: www.chevron.com

Chevron's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/chevron

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on August 21, 2025 at the Chevron refinery in El Segundo, CA.

Episode 39 - What is Industrial Engineering?

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores the field of industrial engineering by interviewing two faculty members in the Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Department at Cal Poly Pomona. Dr. Shokoufeh Mirzaei is Professor and Chair of the department, specializing in applied optimization and artificial intelligence, and Dr. Payam Parsa is an Associate Professor specializing in supply chains and logistics.

During the interview, Shokoufeh and Payam describe the differences between industrial engineering and other engineering disciplines. They also discuss the types of courses industrial engineering students take, the types of jobs available for industrial engineers in industry and government, the importance of getting advanced degrees and certifications, and many other topics.

Cal Poly Pomona Industrial & Manufacturing Department’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/imecpp

Cal Poly Pomona Industrial & Manufacturing Department’s website: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/ime/index.shtml

“I, Pencil” essay by Leonard Reed: https://fee.org/ebooks/i-pencil

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on June 10, 2025 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 38 - What is an engineering technology program?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 13:27:42 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores the field of engineering technology by interviewing two faculty members in the Electromechanical Engineering Technology Department at Cal Poly Pomona. Dr. Farhana Abedin is an Associate Professor and Chair of the department, specializing in structural mechanics and materials, and Gerald Herder is a Professor specializing in industrial electronics, instrumentation, radio frequency systems, and microwave systems.

During the interview, Farhana and Gerald describe the differences between traditional engineering programs (e.g., mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, etc.) and engineering technology programs. They discuss the types of courses engineering technology students take, the types of jobs available to engineering technology students in both industry and government, and many other topics.

Map of Engineering: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQgxiQAMTTo

You can read more about the Cal Poly Pomona's engineering technology programs here: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/et/index.shtml

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson. Thanks to Trevor Henderson for helping set up the sound recording equipment used during the interview.

Recorded on May 29, 2025 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 37 - Exit interview with Jared

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 15:27:03 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews Jared Changizian right when he graduated from Cal Poly Pomona with his bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. You can listen to Jared as a freshman in episode 14, as a sophomore in episode 19, and about 1.5 years before he graduated in episode 31. Paul and Jared are joined by Dr. Jessica Perez, a faculty member in the Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching at Cal Poly Pomona, who took part in the early interviews with Jared.

Jared discusses the hurdles he had to overcome along his journey, reflects upon how he evolved as a student and person during his time at Cal Poly Pomona, and gives advice for students who are just starting an undergraduate engineering program. He also provides ideas on how students can put themselves in a better position to get a job right after college.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on December, 30 2024 via Zoom.

Episode 36 - What is a Dean?

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul tries to demystify the role of "Dean" of a college by interviewing the Dean of the College of Engineering at Cal Poly Pomona, Dr. Andrew Ketsdever. During the conversation, Andrew describes the responsibilities of a Dean, shares his experiences of being a Dean, and explains how a Dean impacts students, faculty, and staff.

Here is how Cal Poly Pomona organizes departments into colleges: https://www.cpp.edu/academics/colleges-departments/index.shtml

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on July 24, 2024 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 35 - What is a department chair?

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul tries to demystify the important, but often misunderstood, position of "department chair" by interviewing Dr. Berit Givens (Dept of Mathematics and Statistics) and Dr. Shokoufeh Mirzaei (Dept of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering), both of whom are department chairs at Cal Poly Pomona. During the conversation, Berit and Shokoufeh describe the role and responsibilities of a department chair, share their experiences of being a chair, and explain how a chair impacts students and faculty. Paul also shares his experiences of being the associate chair of his department, in which he assists his chair with various duties.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on March 19, 2024 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 34 - What is professional licensure?

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews Davy McDowell, who is the Chief Operating Officer of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). During the conversation, Davy provides an overview of the process engineers go through to become professionally licensed. He also discusses the types of engineering jobs that typically require professional licensure, what the professional licensure exams (FE and PE Exams) are like, when it’s recommended to take the exams, and tips for preparing for the exams.

NCEES is an organization that assists states and territories in the professional licensure process: https://ncees.org/

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode produced and edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on November 1, 2023 via Zoom.

Episode 33 - What is Manufacturing Engineering?

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews Dr. Victor Okhuysen who is a Professor in the Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Department at Cal Poly Pomona. During the conversation, Dr. Okhuysen provides an overview of the field of manufacturing engineering. He compares manufacturing engineering with other engineering disciplines, discusses career paths available in manufacturing engineering, and gives various tips for all engineering students.

You can read more about the Cal Poly Pomona's Industrial & Manufacturing Department here: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/ime/index.shtml

National Association of College and Employers (NACE) website for career readiness competencies: https://www.naceweb.org/career-readiness/competencies/career-readiness-defined/

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) magazine breaks down mechanical engineering jobs by sector (about half of mechanical engineers work in manufacturing): https://www.asme.org/topics-resources/content/infographic-where-do-americas-mechanical-engineers-work

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson.

Recorded on May 2, 2023 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 32 - What’s it like to be a veteran and an engineering student?

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews two Cal Poly Pomona engineering students, Elizabeth Sanchez (industrial engineering) and Esteban Alderete (aerospace engineering), who also are US Marine Corps veterans. During the interview, Elizabeth and Esteban share their experiences of active-duty service, transitioning back to civilian life, and being engineering students. They also provide advice for people who are thinking about joining the military, and advice for veterans who are considering pursuing an engineering degree one day.

Cal Poly Pomona Veterans Resource Center: https://www.cpp.edu/veterans/index.shtml

TELACU Veterans Upper Bound program: https://telacu.com/telacu-education-foundation/college-readiness-programs/veterans-upward-bound/

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on March 22, 2023 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 31 - What’s it like to have to repeat a course?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews two Cal Poly Pomona engineering students, Jared Changizian (mechanical engineering) and Michael Youssef (electrical engineering), who discuss a very common experience for engineering students -- having to repeat a course due to receiving a low grade. During the interview, Jared and Michael describe the emotions and thoughts they experienced when they found out they had to repeat engineering courses. They also discuss how they eventually overcame these difficulties and became stronger as a result.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on March 21, 2023 via Zoom.

Episode 30 - What is ABET?

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 13:56:46 -0700

In this episode, Paul provides an overview of ABET, which is the agency responsible for accrediting engineering programs. He discusses why accreditation is important for students and what an engineering program must do to receive accreditation.

During the episode, Paul mentions that all of his department's program educational objectives are listed on his department's website. You can view the program educational objectives, along with the seven student outcomes mandated by ABET, in the "ABET Accreditation" section of this website: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/me/index.shtml

More information about ABET can be found here: https://www.abet.org/accreditation/

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on January 3, 2023.

Episode 29 - Engineering in the Air Pollution Control Industry

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores the field of air pollution control (or air pollution abatement) with Anoosheh Oskouian and John Von Bargen from Ship & Shore Environmental, a company based in Signal Hill, CA that specializes in designing and constructing air pollution abatement systems. Anoosheh is President and CEO of the company, and John is the Vice President and Director of Engineering.

During the interview, Anoosheh and John discuss the importance of air pollution abatement in our everyday lives, how Ship and Shore Environmental works with businesses and local air quality regulatory agencies to meet the air pollution abatement needs of businesses, the types of engineers who typically work in this field, the history of air pollution control in the US, and many other topics.

About Ship & Shore Environmental: Ship & Shore Environmental, Inc. is a Long Beach, CA-based, woman-owned business specializing in the design, evolution, manufacture, and deployment of industrial air pollution capture and control systems. S&SE helps major manufacturers and other organizations around the world meet volatile organic compounds (VOC) abatement challenges by providing customized energy-efficient air pollution abatement systems across various applications, resulting in improved operational efficiency and tailored “green” solutions. Since 2000, S&SE has advised governmental groups and leaders on the full spectrum of environmental needs. Today, S&SE offers a host of innovative engineering and manufacturing capabilities and maintains multiple offices around the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia. With over 100 specialized experts spread across the globe, the company remains dedicated to delivering tailored solutions for clients on both land and sea. For more information, visit www.shipandshore.com.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on August 2, 2022 at Ship & Shore Environmental in Signal Hill, CA.

Episode 28 - What’s it like to start a start-up?

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 12:23:46 -0700

In this episode, Paul talks with Isabel Gutierrez to learn what it's like to create and grow a company. Isabel is the CEO and founder of Vistendo, and earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly Pomona in 2019. Vistendo is a company dedicated to ending the suffering related to untreated brain dysfunctions including brain injuries and mental health disorders. The technology developed by Vistendo helps to detect concussions right on-the-field and monitors those who are injured to prevent serious injury and long-term suffering.

During the interview, Isabel describes her journey of having an idea for a product, forming a company while still in college, and growing the company for the past few years. She also discusses the time demands required to run a start-up company, the importance of people skills in the workplace and for finding investors and partners, the traits of successful leaders, and many other topics.

Vistendo's website:
https://vistendo.com/

Isabel's LinkedIn profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelguti/

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on July 19, 2022 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 27 - What’s it like to be an older engineering student?

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 10:02:57 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews two Cal Poly Pomona engineering students, Eric Belcastro (civil engineering) and John Hartman (electrical engineering), who started pursuing an engineering degrees later in life. Eric and John talk about their transition back to school, and describe their day-to-day experiences inside and outside the classroom as students who are significantly older than most of their classmates. They also provide advice for people who are older and thinking about returning to school to pursue an engineering degree.

John Hartman's songs on Spotify

John Hartman's songs on Apple Music

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on April 28, 2022 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 26 - Engineering in the Food Retailing Industry

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 18:39:28 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores the food retailing industry by interviewing Diego Wood and Michael Gillett, who work for the Hussmann Corporation. Hussmann designs, builds, and maintains display cases in many supermarkets, convenience stores, and other places that sell temperature-controlled food products. Diego is a Specialty Engineering Leader and Michael is a Principal Engineer at Hussmann’s facility in Chino, California (just 10 miles away from Cal Poly Pomoma).

During the interview, Diego and Michael provide an overview of the food retailing industry and discuss the engineering behind display cases and refrigeration systems used in the industry. Additionally, they highlight the importance of communication with customers and in the workplace, share their thoughts on the future of the food retailing industry, and provide advice on how engineering students can succeed in any engineering workplace.

About Hussmann Corporation:
https://www.hussmann.com/about-us/legacy-innovation

Careers at Hussmann:
https://www.hussmann.com/careers/job-openings

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on January 10, 2022 via Zoom.

Episode 25 - Engineering at an Air Quality Agency

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 14:52:59 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores what it's like to be an engineer at an air quality agency by interviewing Dr. Simin Mehrabani, who works at the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD). The South Coast AQMD is a government agency responsible for improving the air quality for over 15 million people in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

Simin received a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Southern California, and currently is a Senior Air Quality Engineer for the South Coast AQMD. In this role she supervises a team of air quality engineers who review engineering evaluation reports and issues permits to industries involved in coating and printing operations.

In the interview, Simin discusses the various divisions within the South Coast AQMD, how the South Coast AQMD works with state and federal agencies to improve air quality, the types of jobs available to engineers at air quality agencies, and how engineering students can gain a foothold in this field.

South Coast AQMD website:
http://www.aqmd.gov/

South Coast AQMD air quality mobile app:
https://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/news-archive/2020/enhanced-mobile-app-dec10-2020.pdf

South Coast AQMD Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP):
http://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/clean-air-plans/air-quality-mgt-plan

West Coast Section of Air & Waste Management Association (AWMA) website:
https://wcsawma.org/

Rule 219 for equipment not requiring a written permit:
http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/rule-book/reg-ii/rule-219.pdf

Rule 1401 on toxic air contaminants:
http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/rule-book/reg-xiv/rule-1401.pdf

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on December 28, 2021 via Zoom.

Episode 24 - Engineers at an Electric Utility Agency

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 16:47:58 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores what it's like to be an engineer at an electric utility agency by interviewing Everett Aragon and Moein Lak, both of whom work at the Southern California Edison. SoCal Edison is a large electric utility transmitting and distributing power throughout much of Southern and Eastern California. Everett Aragon is a Senior Engineering Manager in the Technology Integration Group, with a B.S. in Computer Engineering and Electric Engineering from Cal Poly Pomona (Class of 2008), and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering from USC. Moein is an Engineering Manager who focuses on distribution, and has a B.S. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering.

In the interview, Everett and Moein discuss the structure of SoCal Edison, the different types of engineers who work for the organization, the importance of advanced degrees and getting professional licensure in their field, and the importance of communication both with the public and with their colleagues. We also discuss the long-term challenges and opportunities facing electric utilities around the world, such as modernizing electrical grids that are becoming more and more complex every year.

SoCal Edison internships: https://www.edisoncareers.com/page/show/early_career/

SoCal Edison's Distribution Resources Plan External Portal: https://ltmdrpep.sce.com/drpep/

Pathway 2045: https://www.edison.com/home/our-perspective/pathway-2045.html

Reimagining the Grid: https://www.edison.com/home/our-perspective/reimagining-the-grid.html

Moein mentioned IEEE a couple times: https://www.ieee.org/

Everett and Moein wanted to mention, “The guests share their experiences and do not represent SCE.”

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on August 25, 2021 via Zoom.

Episode 23 - What‘s it like to be an engineering transfer student?

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews Andrew Diamond and Jonny Yi, both of whom are aerospace engineering students (and amateur podcasters) at Cal Poly Pomona. Andrew and Jonny transferred to Cal Poly Pomona from a community college back in Fall 2019. In the interview, Andrew and Jonny discuss why they went to community college, how they prepared to transfer to a university and what the transition was like, the differences between their community college and Cal Poly Pomona, and they provide advice for engineering students who are at a community college and hope to one day transfer to a university to finish their degree.

Andrew and Jonny's "Aeroholics Anonymous" podcast can be found on all podcast platforms. Here is the RSS feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/aeroholicsanonymous/

Andrew mentioned the atrium of building 17 at Cal Poly Pomona with large models of planes and satellites. Here is a picture of the atrium.

Here is the amazing caricature of Paul and Dwayne (the rock).

All college students should complete the FAFSA every year: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on September 1, 2021 via Zencastr.

Episode 22 - Engineers at a Water Utility Agency

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores what it's like to be an engineer at a water utility agency by interviewing Steve Johnson and Gerardo Maldonado, both of whom work at the Desert Water Agency (DWA). The DWA is responsible for importing water and managing groundwater in the Palm Spring and Cathedral City area (desert communities a couple hours east of Los Angeles). Steve is the Assistant Manager with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Cal Poly Pomona (1993) and Gerardo is a Staff Engineer with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly Pomona (2019). In the interview, Steve and Gerardo discuss various projects they've worked on, they compare working for a public agency like DWA versus working for a private company, and they provide tips for engineering students who want to enter the field of water management.

Website for the DWA: https://dwa.org/

Internship opportunities at the DWA are occasionally posted here: www.dwa.org/careers

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on June 11, 2021 via Zoom.

Episode 21 - Engineering in Large Warehouses

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 13:17:43 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores a critically important (but underappreciated) component of our economy -- large warehouses -- by interviewing Mark Wry, who is a Senior Engineering Manager at Under Armour. Mark has a B.S. in Industrial Engineering and M.S. in Systems Engineering, both from Cal Poly Pomona. Mark describes what it's like to be an engineer in a large warehouse, the various types of jobs performed by engineers in these facilities, tips for gaining a foothold in this field, and future trends in warehouses and supply chains.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on April 9, 2021 via Zoom.

Episode 20 - Engineers in the Themed Entertainment Industry

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:04:03 -0700

In this episode, Paul explores the themed entertainment industry by interviewing Andrew Skowron and Jego Santos Fonseca, both of whom work at Universal Studios Hollywood (Andrew as a Rides Manager and Jego as a Quality Engineer). Andrew and Jego describe what the themed entertainment industry is all about including how various types of engineers participate in the industry, how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted the industry, and how to improve your chances of landing a job in the industry.

Here are links to the various organizations mentioned during the episode:

Jego's YouTube Channel (Tink Tank)

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Creative

Walt Disney Imagineering

Themed Entertainment Association (TEA)

International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA)

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on January 21, 2021 via Zoom. Sorry about the poor audio quality for Paul -- he had mic issues that didn't become apparent until post-production. He will be upgrading his recording equipment soon!

Episode 19 - Catching up with Monica and Jared (Year 2)

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul catches up with Monica and Jared who are now in their second year of college. Monica and Jared were interviewed as freshmen back in Episode 14. They are joined by Dr. Jessica Perez (Electromechanical Engineering Technology Department, Cal Poly Pomona) who frequently teaches a first year engineering experience course. Monica and Jared share how they’ve changed as engineering students and as people during the past year, how they are dealing with the challenges related to online instruction, and they provide advice for freshman engineering students. We hope to follow-up with Jared and Monica a year from now to continue learning how their opinions and interests evolve over time.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on December 16, 2020 via Zoom.

Episode 18 - What is graduate school?

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 08:43:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul provides an overview of graduate ("grad") school. He covers how to apply to grad school, the differences between obtaining a Master's degree and a Ph.D., who should consider applying to grad school, factors to consider when selecting a university, and finding a faculty advisor.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

This episode was recorded on November 25, 2020 at Paul's home studio (a.k.a., his bedroom).

Episode 17 - What is Electrical Engineering?

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews Dr. Phyllis Nelson and Dr. Anas Salah Eddin, both of whom are faculty members in the Electrical & Computer Engineering Department at Cal Poly Pomona. We discuss the sub-disciplines within electrical engineering, career paths available to electrical engineers, and various tips for electrical engineering students. We also touch upon the differences between electrical engineering, computer engineering, and computer science. You can read more about a typical electrical engineering program by checking out the Cal Poly Pomona Electrical & Computer Engineering Department's website: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/ece/

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Melody Neu ran the soundboard. Paul edited the episode.

Recorded on March 6, 2020 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 16 - Being an engineering student in the time of COVID-19 (Part II)

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 13:49:36 -0700

In this episode, Paul revisits with two engineering students, Hooman Kasraei and Robert Freeman, who reflect upon the past couple months of adjusting to life during the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic. If you want to hear their initial thoughts from a couple months earlier when the university suddenly shifted to remote instruction, check out Episode 11.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on May 22, 2020 via Zoom.

Episode 15 - Being an engineering instructor in the time of COVID-19 (Part II)

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 21:49:39 -0700

In this episode, Paul revisits with two Cal Poly Pomona colleagues, Dr. Nolan Tsuchiya (Mechanical Engineering Department) and Dr. Jessica Perez (Electromechanical Engineering Technology Department), who reflect upon the challenges of adjusting to teaching (and life) during the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic. If you want to hear their initial thoughts from a couple months earlier when the university suddenly shifted to remote instruction, check out Episode 12.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Recorded on May 22, 2020 via Zoom.

Episode 14 - What's it like to be a freshman engineering student?

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 13:35:34 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews two freshman engineering students (Jared Changizian and Monica Felix) about their experiences during their first semester in college. They are joined by Dr. Jessica Perez (Electromechanical Engineering Technology Department, Cal Poly Pomona) who frequently teaches a first year engineering experience course. We hope to follow-up with Jared and Monica in the years ahead to see how their opinions and interests evolve over time.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Soundboard run by Gerardo Maldonado. Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. This episode was recorded on November 20, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 13 - Engineering in the music industry

Mon, 11 May 2020 10:08:37 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews Dr. Isaac Schankler (Music Department, Cal Poly Pomona) and Gerardo Maldonado (undergraduate mechanical engineering student, Cal Poly Pomona), who discuss opportunities for engineers in the music industry and how engineering students can merge their love for music with their love for engineering. Shortly after recording this episode, Gerardo received his B.S. in mechanical engineering with a minor in Music. Congrats Gerardo!

Purchase Isaac’s latest album: Because Patterns

Isaac's website: http://isaacschankler.com/

Isaac mentioned the Guthman Musical Instrument Competition held at Georgia Tech every year.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Soundboard run by Gerardo Maldonado. Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. This episode was recorded on November 19, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 12 - Being an engineering instructor in the time of COVID-19

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 16:14:06 -0700

In this special episode, Paul interviews two engineering faculty members from Cal Poly Pomona, Dr. Nolan Tsuchiya (Mechanical Engineering) and Dr. Jessica Perez (Electromechanical Engineering Technology), who discuss what it's been like to make the sudden transition to online instruction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nolan also was a guest in Episode 4 ("What is Mechanical Engineering?") and Jessica was a guest in Episode 10 ("What's it like to be a first-generation engineering undergraduate student?").

Although Paul, Nolan, and Jessica have many positive comments about the conferencing software Zoom, the company isn't a sponsor... yet (hint, hint Zoom).

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Please excuse the audio quality... we didn't have access to our normal recording equipment.

This episode was recorded on March 25, 2020.

Episode 11 - Being an engineering student in the time of COVID-19

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 13:57:42 -0700

In this special episode, Paul interviews two undergraduate engineering students (Hooman Kasraei and Robert Freeman) who discuss what it's been like to make the sudden transition to online instruction due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. Please excuse the audio quality... we didn't have access to our normal recording equipment.

This episode was recorded on March 24, 2020.

Episode 10 - What's it like to be a first-generation engineering undergraduate student?

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 00:15:03 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews two current first-generation college students (Ruby Valdez and Javier Ruedas) about their experiences in engineering programs. They are joined by Dr. Jessica Perez, who is a faculty member in the Electromechanical Engineering Technology Department at Cal Poly Pomona with extensive experience examining issues related to first-generation college students.

Paul mentioned a NY Times article from Nov 3, 2017: Are You First Gen? Depends on Who’s Asking

Ruby mentioned how she benefited from AVID in high school and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) in college.

Javier mentioned Cal Poly Pomona’s Maximizing Engineering Potential Program (MEP) and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Soundboard run by Gerardo Maldonado. Episode edited by Paul Nissenson.

This episode was recorded on November 20, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 09 - What is Aerospace Engineering?

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 12:37:35 -0700

In this episode, Paul interviews two aerospace engineering faculty members at Cal Poly Pomona, Dr. Don Edberg and Dr. Todd Coburn. Drs. Edberg and Coburn discuss the field of aerospace engineering, career paths available to aerospace engineers, and tips for aerospace engineering students. For more information about aerospace engineering, check out the Cal Poly Pomona Aerospace Engineering Department's website: https://www.cpp.edu/engineering/aro/index.shtml

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Gerardo Maldonado ran the soundboard. Paul edited the episode.

Recorded on October 15, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 08 - How is a typical university structured?

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 06:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul explains how a typical university is structured. This information can help new students acclimate to university life quicker.

Here are the organization charts of Cal Poly Pomona to give you a better idea of how a typical institution is organized:
https://www.cpp.edu/president/pdfs/oop_20200701.pdf

Paul discussed the CPP Polytechnic STEAM Academy in the episode. Here is the program's mission statement:
"The mission of CPP’s Polytechnic STEAM Academy is to provide a 'Brand-You' transformative educational experience for high school student students through technology-focused team projects. Participation in the Academy allows high school students in grades 9-12 to connect with students across the community and institutions, to collaborate with CPP and its industrial partners, and to create knowledge and content through team-based, hands-on projects and online courseware. Students in the academy are exposed to today’s cutting-edge technology and its social impact, learn about leading theories on diverse perspectives and inclusion, experience design thinking and creation first-hand, and practice essential skills necessary for the modern-day work environment such as team science, presentation and web-based communication."

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

This episode was recorded on October 24, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 07 - What are the differences between colleges and universities?

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 12:15:14 -0700

In this episode, Paul explains the major differences between colleges and universities.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

This episode was recorded on October 24, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 06 - Understanding your instructors' titles and ranks

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Paul explains the various titles and ranks your instructor may have, and how to properly address your instructor.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

This episode was recorded on September 5, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 05 - What's it like to be a senior engineering student?

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Dr. Paul Nissenson (Mechanical Engineering Dept., Cal Poly Pomona) interviews two senior-level engineering students at Cal Poly Pomona -- Cesar Moreno and Noemi Guerrero. Cesar and Noemi describe what it is like to be an engineering student on the cusp of graduation, the challenges and rewards of being an engineering student, and tips for new or aspiring engineering students. Both Cesar and Noemi graduated with a BS degree in mechanical engineering in June 2018.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Thanks to Cesar Moreno for helping record and edit this episode, and Cal Poly Pomona for providing funding for this pilot project.

This episode was recorded on February 26, 2018 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 04 - What is Mechanical Engineering?

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Dr. Paul Nissenson (Mechanical Engineering Dept., Cal Poly Pomona) interviews two Mechanical Engineering faculty members at Cal Poly Pomona -- Dr. Mehrdad Haghi and Dr. Nolan Tsuchiya. Dr. Haghi and Dr. Tsuchiya discuss the field of Mechanical Engineering, career paths available to Mechanical Engineers, and tips for Mechanical Engineering students. For more information about Mechanical Engineering, check out the Cal Poly Pomona Mechanical Engineering website: https://www.cpp.edu/~engineering/ME/

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Thanks to Cesar Moreno for helping record and edit this episode, and Cal Poly Pomona for providing funding for this pilot project.

This episode was recorded on May 31, 2018 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 03 - What's it like to be an engineering instructor?

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Professor Paul Nissenson (Mechanical Engineering Dept., Cal Poly Pomona) interviews two engineering faculty members: Professor Mariappan "Jawa" Jawaharlal (Mechanical Engineering Dept., Cal Poly Pomona) and Professor Gerald Herder (Electromechanical Engineering Technology Dept., Cal Poly Pomona). Professors Jawa and Herder describe their experiences teaching engineering courses for many years and provide tips to engineering students on how to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Thanks to Cesar Moreno for helping record and edit this episode, and Cal Poly Pomona for providing funding for this pilot project.

This episode was recorded on February 16, 2018 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 02 - What is Civil Engineering?

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Dr. Paul Nissenson (Mechanical Engineering Dept., Cal Poly Pomona) interviews two Civil Engineering faculty members at Cal Poly Pomona -- Dr. Felipe Perez and Dr. Kenneth Lamb. Dr. Perez and Dr. Lamb discuss the field of Civil Engineering, career paths available to Civil Engineers, and tips for Civil Engineering students. For more information about Civil Engineering, check out the Cal Poly Pomona Civil Engineering website: http://www.cpp.edu/~engineering/CE/about.shtml

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Thanks to Cesar Moreno for helping record and edit this episode, and Cal Poly Pomona for providing funding for this pilot project.

This episode was recorded on February 7, 2018 at Cal Poly Pomona.

Episode 01 - What's it like to be an early career engineer?

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 11:52:38 -0700

In this episode, Dr. Paul Nissenson (Mechanical Engineering Dept., Cal Poly Pomona) interviews two early career engineers, Matt DeSalvio and Don Logsdon, who graduated from Cal Poly Pomona four years prior to the interview. Matt and Don describe their experiences in industry and provide tips to engineering students who are about to enter the workforce.

During the interview, Matt and Paul discuss the importance of computer programming and mention the very practical Excel VBA language. Below is a link to a free, self-paced course in Excel VBA developed by Paul back in 2015.
https://openeducation.blackboard.com/mooc-catalog/courseDetails/view?course_id=_219_1

Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to TESEpodcast@gmail.com and Paul will personally read your email.

Thanks to Cesar Moreno for helping record and edit this episode, and Cal Poly Pomona for providing funding for this pilot project.

This episode was recorded on January 26, 2018 at Cal Poly Pomona.