Nia Hodges
Electrical & Systems Engineering
Degree pursuing: Systems Science & Mathematics
Where did you complete your undergraduate degree?
Jackson State University
Please provide your lab and description of research
Lab: Multimodal Vision Research Laboratory
Research: I work on advanced location estimation techniques. My research focuses on elevating mobility tracking across diverse scenarios.
What played into your decision to get a graduate engineering degree?
I decided to get a graduate engineering degree because the work I wanted to do needed it. Now, I've found a new passion and enjoy the freedom of doing research.
Why did you pick WashU?
I chose WashU because they recognized my potential among all the schools I applied to. Once finances were no longer a barrier and with the strong support from the faculty, the decision became an easy one.
What is your favorite thing about St. Louis?
What I love most about St. Louis is the sense of community I've discovered, both on and off campus. The friends I've made feel like family, and I appreciate the abundance of free activities the city offers regularly.
What advice would you give to a new student?
For new students, my advice would be to embrace change. Be open to re-learning how to study, get comfortable with the discomfort of new challenges, and view each less-than-ideal grade as a valuable learning opportunity. Leave your pride behind, as this journey is about growth, not staying the same.
What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student?
As an African-American student, I highly recommend joining the Black Graduate Student Association and the National Society of Black Engineers for a supportive community. Additionally, engaging with your lab members is crucial – building connections inside and outside the lab can significantly enhance your graduate school experience.
What are your plans for the future?
I'm still undecided about my future plans. I'm considering a path in academia because I love helping others learn, and alternatively, I could envision myself in the defense industry, drawn to the sense of purpose in mission-driven work.