The Fall 2024 semester was a transformative journey for the School of Business graduate assistants, from research breakthroughs, and invaluable mentorship. Their stories showcase the incredible opportunities and professional growth the program offers.
Introducing Our Fall 2024 Graduate Assistants
These talented individuals played pivotal roles across various departments, contributing to research, and teaching while pursuing their graduate studies.
Above is a group picture of our Fall 2024 Graduate Assistants. From left to right: Mary Izibili, Mamunur Rashid, Olufemi Ayodele, Md Nasim Fardous Zim, Alexander Sarpong, Mohammad Ikbal Hossain, Emmanuel Duah Owusu, Omum Auyon, Emmanuel Gana, and Darshana Shah. The picture was taken at the Cybersecurity lab, where many of these talented individuals contributed to cutting-edge projects and research.
First Testimony: Alexander Sarpong, Graduate Research Assistant Coordinator
Our first testimony comes from the Graduate Assistant Coordinator, Alexander Sarpong. Kindly listen to his inspiring words as he shares his experiences and reflections on the Fall 2024 semester.
“I started off rough, unsure of my footing in the world of research. But with perseverance and the guidance of my colleagues and Dr. Phillips, the professor in charge of research, I’ve become a confident researcher specializing in organizational behavior and cybersecurity. This experience has been transformative, and I encourage everyone to consider becoming a researcher. It’s a journey worth taking.”
– Alexander Sarpong
Alexander’s testimony highlights the power of mentorship, collaboration, and perseverance in achieving academic and professional excellence. His words serve as a beacon for aspiring researchers, showcasing how growth and success often stem from overcoming challenges.
Next Testimony: Mohammad Ikbal Hossain
Our next testimony is from Mohammad Ikbal Hossain, who reflects on his enriching experience as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His journey showcases the power of mentorship, collaboration, and dedication to academic excellence.
“Working with Dr. Phillips, Dr. Rahma, and Dr. Steigner on community group research has been an incredible learning experience. I’ve gained valuable skills in crafting quality papers for top-tier journals and successfully completed two papers published in ABDC index journals. I am especially grateful to Dr. Phillips for his guidance and for imparting the knowledge that has significantly impacted my growth as a researcher.”
– Mohammad Ikbal Hossain
Mohammad’s testimony highlights the value of collaborative research and the transformative power of mentorship. His achievements in publishing in quality journals reflect the dedication and support that the Graduate Assistant program fosters.
Next Testimony: Olufemi Ayodele
Our next testimony is from Olufemi Ayodele, who shares his remarkable journey and growth as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. Listen to his story of perseverance and professional development below.
“The Graduate Assistant program has been incredibly helpful in enriching my experience. Tutoring economics has not only deepened my academic knowledge but also strengthened my skills as a researcher. I am especially grateful to Dr. Phillips for his mentorship and guidance, which have been invaluable throughout this journey. I am committed to applying all the knowledge I’ve gained to my career aspirations.”
– Olufemi Ayodele
Olufemi’s testimony highlights the profound impact of mentorship and hands-on teaching experience. His dedication to leveraging his skills and knowledge for future career success reflects the essence of the Graduate Assistant program.
Next Testimony: Md Nasim Fardous Zim
Our next testimony comes from Md Nasim Fardous Zim, who reflects on his enriching journey as a Teaching Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His experience highlights the impact of mentorship and skill development on his professional growth.
“Serving as a Teaching Assistant has been an incredible opportunity that has significantly enhanced my academic and professional journey. This role has also helped me strengthen my abilities as a data analyst, preparing me for future challenges. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Chavaria, Dr. Rahma, and Dr. Phillips for their invaluable guidance and support throughout this experience.”
– Md Nasim Fardous Zim
Md Nasim Fardous Zim’s testimony underscores the value of mentorship and practical experience in developing critical skills. His gratitude and dedication reflect the transformative nature of the Graduate Assistantship program.
Next Testimony: Mamunur Rashid
Our next testimony is from Mamunur Rashid, who shares his enriching experience as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His journey highlights the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and teamwork.
“As a Graduate Assistant, I’ve had the privilege of conducting research with Dr. Chavaria and Dr. Rahma, whose guidance has been instrumental in my growth. I am also deeply grateful to my colleagues for their support and collaboration, which have made this experience even more rewarding. This program has truly been a transformative chapter in my academic and professional journey.”
– Mamunur Rashid
Mamunur Rashid’s testimony reflects the value of mentorship and the power of teamwork in fostering personal and professional development. His gratitude and dedication exemplify the spirit of the Graduate Assistantship program.
Next Testimony: Mary Izibili
Our next testimony is from Mary Izibili, who reflects on her enriching journey as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. Her story highlights the importance of mentorship and the development of essential academic and professional skills.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Graduate Assistant program. Dr. Phillips has been instrumental in helping me improve my skills in writing a good literature review, and I deeply appreciate Dr. Danya and Dr. Payson for teaching me the art of grading effectively. These experiences have significantly enhanced my academic and professional journey, and I am confident that the skills and knowledge I’ve gained will be invaluable for my future career.”
– Mary Izibili
Mary Izibili’s testimony underscores the value of mentorship and hands-on learning in building a strong foundation for academic and professional success. Her dedication and gratitude reflect the transformative power of the Graduate Assistantship program.
Next Testimony: Emmanuel Duah Owusu
Our next testimony is from Emmanuel Duah Owusu, who shares his transformative experience as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His journey highlights the value of mentorship, research, and career development.
“As part of the technical group focusing on programming and artificial intelligence, I’ve had the exciting opportunity to work on cybersecurity projects in collaboration with Cyroc. This experience has been invaluable, allowing me to apply my skills to real-world challenges while growing as a professional. I am grateful for the chance to contribute to such meaningful projects and for the mentorship and support that have guided me along the way.”
– Emmanuel Duah Owusu
Emmanuel’s testimony reflects the importance of technical innovation and collaboration in the Graduate Assistant program. His involvement in advanced projects showcases the program’s commitment to equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for future success.
Next Testimony: Omum Auyon
Our next testimony is from Omum Auyon, who shares his enriching experience as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His journey showcases the impact of collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth.
“Being part of the Graduate Assistant program has been a transformative experience. It has encouraged me to start my personal research journey, particularly in cybersecurity. Dr. Phillips has been instrumental in guiding me with paper-writing tips and helping me build a model based on the appropriate knowledge required in this field. I am incredibly thankful for this opportunity and am committed to upholding the program’s mission as I move forward in my career.”
– Omum Auyon
Omum’s testimony highlights the significance of mentorship and the drive to pursue independent research. His gratitude and dedication exemplify the essence of the Graduate Assistant program, fostering both professional growth and a commitment to excellence.
Next Testimony: Paschal Okonkwor
Our next testimony is from Paschal Okonkwor, who reflects on his transformative journey as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His experience highlights the importance of mentorship, skill development, and dedication to academic growth.
“Serving as a tutor for Marketing and IT has been an enriching experience that has not only enhanced my knowledge but also prepared me for job interviews and professional processes. The skills I’ve gained during my time as a Graduate Assistant have been invaluable in advancing my career prospects. I strongly encourage other students to consider becoming a Graduate Assistant, especially in the School of Business. It’s a rewarding opportunity that builds both academic and professional expertise.”
– Paschal Okonkwor
Paschal’s testimony showcases the practical benefits of the Graduate Assistantship program in preparing students for real-world challenges. His encouragement for others reflects the program’s role in fostering growth and excellence in the School of Business.
Next Testimony: Emmanuel Gana
Our next testimony is from Emmanuel Gana, who reflects on his rewarding journey as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. His story highlights the importance of mentorship, skill-building, and professional development.
“Through this program, I’ve learned how to effectively pull literature and manage citations, a skill that will be invaluable as I pursue my PhD. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Phillips for his mentorship and guidance throughout this journey. I believe these experiences will not only benefit me but also serve as a foundation for incoming graduate researchers to thrive in their academic pursuits.”
– Emmanuel Gana
Emmanuel’s testimony reflects the importance of skill development and mentorship in preparing for advanced academic challenges. His gratitude and forward-looking perspective exemplify the lasting impact of the Graduate Assistantship program.
Next Testimony: Darshana Shah
Our final testimony comes from Darshana Shah, who shares her transformative experience as a Graduate Assistant during the Fall 2024 semester. Her journey highlights the power of mentorship, collaboration, and skill enhancement.
“Working on a research project with Dr. Rahma has been an incredible experience. It has given me the opportunity to deepen my understanding of the research process and develop skills that will be invaluable in my future career. I am grateful for this opportunity and for the guidance I’ve received from Dr. Phillips throughout this journey. This program has been a transformative chapter in my academic and professional life.”
– Darshana Shah
Darshana’s testimony emphasizes the importance of collaborative research and mentorship in achieving academic growth. Her experience reflects the impact of the Graduate Assistant program in fostering meaningful opportunities for learning and development.
Closing Reflections
The Fall 2024 Graduate Assistantship program has been a remarkable journey of growth, learning, and achievement for all involved. Through the insightful testimonies shared by our graduate assistants, it is evident how this program provides a platform for mentorship, skill development, and career preparation.
We are incredibly proud of the contributions made by each of our graduate assistants and grateful to the faculty mentors who have guided them along the way. Their experiences highlight the transformative power of collaboration, hard work, and a commitment to excellence.
As we look ahead, we encourage future students to take advantage of this incredible opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally. The Graduate Assistantship program continues to pave the way for success, inspiring the next generation of leaders and researchers.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the accomplishments of our Fall 2024 Graduate Assistants. We look forward to sharing more stories of success in the future!