Expect the Unexpected: My journey as a PhD student
“It’s much more than I have imagined, surpassing what I once had in mind, and I am happy to be wrong,” said Yuttapichai Kerdcharoen (Guide) regarding his experiences at the dual degree Electrical & Computer Engineering program, at Carnegie Mellon University.
Reflecting on his journey a few years back, the spark that ignited Guide’s academic pursuit of a PhD stemmed from a seemingly ordinary event — attending a “Distinguished Lecture” series at CMKL University. Despite its status as a relatively small and newly established institution, CMKL University exudes the same boldness and goals as other renowned counterparts worldwide.
As fate would have it, he happened to attend CMKL’s “Distinguished Lecture” series. Distinguished Lecture serves as a platform where notable figures from various fields, including engineers, businessmen, bankers, pilots, and professors, etc. impart their knowledge to students and enthusiasts alike. During one of these sessions, Guide, a final-year student at KMITL, disillusioned with his internship, found himself captivated by a lecture delivered by Assoc. Prof. Tze Meng Low, assoc. Prof from Carnegie Mellon University and Osman Yağan, Research Professor from Carnegie Mellon University.
This encounter led him to apply for the Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE) dual program at CMKL University where upon graduation, graduates receive both degrees from Carnegie Mellon and CMKL University.
Reflecting on his first year, he describes it as a blend of challenges, stress, and exhilaration. The faculty, comprised of pioneers in their respective fields, introduced him to an unparalleled learning environment where innovation thrived.
In his words, “The first year was packed with coursework; it was both challenging and stressful, but also a lot of fun. I’ve never experienced anything like it before. The professors are true pioneers, whether they’re writing books, pioneering new ideas, or simply being some of the brightest minds in STEM fields. It’s a rare environment to encounter.”
There is a lot to learn, with everyone around you eager to do the same things and encourage each other.
“I recall being grouped with classmates for in-class projects, but what stood out was how invested everyone was in the class. There was no slacking off; everyone gave their best effort. Ideas were introduced and debated in a friendly, rapid-fire brainstorming session, and all the while, we were having a blast. It’s incredible how we learned so much while having such a great time.”
Studying in the ECE program allows you to learn more about yourself and reach your full potential. It’s an environment that fosters learning, surrounded by your kind of “people” — most of whom share your ideas, passions, interests, etc. After all, you don’t get to be there if you don’t take studying seriously and work hard for it.
As he focuses on completing his PhD, he harbors aspirations of venturing into the realm of gaming entrepreneurship in the future. With plenty of possibilities ahead, he remains optimistic about what lies ahead.
