Recently, students from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University took part in a five-day FutureG Summer Research Camp. The primary objective of the event was to provide undergraduate students with hands-on experience in advanced wireless communications technologies, including cybersecurity, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) within the field of electronics engineering.
The camp hosted a cohort of 25 students who were carefully selected from a pool of 78 applicants by Professor Yanchao Zhang and his colleagues from the FutureG Center of Excellence. This research centre is dedicated to the development of future-generation networks and is generously funded by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Professor Zhang emphasized the significance of such initiatives, stating, “The goal of this summer camp is to expose highly qualified Fulton Schools undergraduate students to the latest topics and opportunities in the future generation wireless technology field.” In addition to lectures delivered by industry experts, it provided an invaluable opportunity for the participants to acquire practical knowledge in various engineering disciplines.
Diego Quintero, a dedicated sophomore majoring in electrical engineering, expressed how the camp had transformed his passion and outlook on the engineering field. He was particularly intrigued by the advancements in the tech industry and was seriously contemplating enrolling in the university’s accelerated master’s degree program. Another participant, Mounia Bazzi, commended the camp for enhancing her understanding of engineering principles and broadening her career prospects in the electrical engineering field.
A notable highlight from the program was a session at ASU’s Media and Immersive eXperience Center. Here, student participants engaged in experiential learning through AR and VR activities, gaining exposure to the latest advancements and digital technologies within the engineering field.
This research initiative underscores the increasing importance of practical learning in preparing the next generation of technology engineers.