O.A. "Gus" Plumb

Welcome from the Dean

Sept. 1, 2006 - Welcome to the College of Engineering for academic year 2006-2007. Congratulations on your decision to study engineering or computer science. Aside from the fact that the job market for the College’s graduates is excellent, a degree in engineering or computer science offers additional advantages. We live in a highly technical world in which a solid, but broad, technical background offered by all of the College’s degree programs can be a huge asset for any career aspiration including those in medicine, business, or law.

What you learn in the classroom will be greatly enhanced if you participate in one or more of the following: a research experience, an international experience, or an internship experience. These experiences will help you develop the confidence necessary to launch a successful career in engineering or computer science. A research experience will prepare you for graduate education and give you the skills to become a lifelong learner – the ultimate goal of undergraduate education. An international experience is essential if you are to contribute to and understand the global economy in which you will live and work. And finally, an internship experience assures that you are prepared to be immediately productive in the work place upon graduation. In addition, you may want to consider involvement in the many student activities, clubs, and organizations on campus. Involvement outside of the classroom will give you leadership, teamwork, and communications experiences that will serve you well throughout your career, resulting in lifelong friendships.

To find answers and solutions to the questions and problems that will inevitably arise during the fall semester, first meet with your advisor. In addition, during your four or more years in the College I encourage you to get to know as many faculty members as possible. They can help you immensely – from answering questions about the curricula, the profession, graduate school, or various employment opportunities to writing letters of recommendation. Other sources of answers to your questions include the staff in your department office or Susan McCormack in the Dean's Office. If they can't help you they will direct you to someone who can.

You have my assurance that the faculty and staff are doing their very best to give you an outstanding educational experience.

Sincerely,

O.A. "Gus" Plumb
Dean and Professor