Alumni Faces of STEM – Jimmy – Rose-Hulman

Spotlight on: Jimmy Zhang, Rose-Hulman Alumnus and University of Pennsylvania Graduate Student

Jimmy Zhang

Jimmy Zhang graduated from Rose-Hulman in 2021 with a major in mechanical engineering and a minor in robotics and economics. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in industrial/systems engineering (with a minor in engineering entrepreneurship) from University of Pennsylvania. Here’s how Rose-Hulman helped Zhang prepare for graduate school.

How did Rose-Hulman help prepare you for graduate school and your career path?

Rose-Hulman’s research resources helped me a lot! I had research in robotics with Dr. Berry, and it really enriched my background. Rose is very supportive of academic research and the students can start research in their field of interest and receive support from professors.

What are your career goals?

My short-term goal is to join a major tech/manufacturing company and learn technical and management skills. Long term, I plan to start a tech startup in the recycling field.

How did Rose-Hulman help prepare you for your career goals?

Rose’s curriculum is well designed and covers every aspect you may encounter in your major. The hands-on skills I learned from Rose are very helpful at work. For example, I know how to use every machine in the machine shop at our company. But another intern who attends an Ivy League school doesn't have any experience with the machines.

What was unique about attending Rose?

The community! At my current school, I don't feel like I’m a part of something. Students only go to class and barely knows each other. It makes me miss the days at Rose — the students, professors, and staff are like a big family.

What else do you have to say about your experience at Rose-Hulman?

Get a minor/concentration at Rose. It helps a lot because the companies only hire with certain demands. For example, my current company hired someone who is good at PLC and another person who is proficient in hydraulic designs. Even though they are both called mechanical engineers, they were hired for very different roles. And if you are interested in starting a company, Rose’s economics classes can prepare you with financial knowledge.