Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
My name is Gabriella Miller, and I am from Brazil. I moved to the U.S. in November 2014 to learn English after graduating from Tiradentes University with a petroleum engineering degree. In 2017, I was hired as a mechanical engineer at Corrugated Replacements and met my husband.
Why did you decide to pursue your M.Eng. in engineering management?
I decided to pursue this master’s degree in engineering management because I wanted to make sure I was prepared and qualified when the opportunity to become a manager at Corrugated Replacements presented itself.
Why did you decide to pursue your degree online?
As a full-time worker, I had to pursue the degree online. I could not stop my job to go to school; I needed to do both.
Why did you choose Vanderbilt?
Vanderbilt is a well-known institution, and I was honored to be accepted to be part of this school.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your online education experience?
The most rewarding aspect was that I got to share life with people all over the country. We share experiences, not just online related to school and work, but our individual experiences. I have learned a lot from the friends I made during this program. The professional network that was created through these friendships is also super important.
What has been your favorite course so far?
The capstone course has been my favorite. In it, I have had the opportunity to apply everything I have learned in the program and start a real-world project for the company I work at.
With which professor or faculty member have you most enjoyed working?
All the professors and faculty members are amazing, but I have taken three courses with Professor Courtney Johnson, and I have really enjoyed collaborating with her and learning everything she has taught us these last three semesters.
How are you applying what you have learned in classes to your current work? How will it move you closer to your long-term career goals?
I have started applying skills as I learn them. All experiences shared in this program have already made me look at things differently and taught me what kind of manager I want to be.
Tell us about a project you have worked on or research you have conducted as part of your coursework.
I have created and presented a project to change how the design engineering department is conducted in conjunction with the manufacturing engineering department. My project combines both departments and brings engineers together. It makes sure engineers work together and kills the concept of design engineers making drawings and manufacturing engineers figuring out how to make those parts. As those engineers work together, they will learn how to avoid errors and misunderstandings, saving money and time.
What advice would you give to incoming students or those considering this program?
Come prepared to learn and spend a lot of time as a student.