Student Profile: Matthew Hung
Meet Matthew Khoa Hung, a first-year graduate student in M.S. Mechanical Engineering at San José State University (SJSU) with a B.S. Aerospace Engineering background. From Union City in the East Bay, Matthew’s journey to pursuing his academic aspirations has been marked by determination and a commitment to excellence.
Matthew’s interest in engineering was sparked at a young age during his visits to Vietnam, where he was marveled by the fact that humans travel thousands of miles in just a metal tube. Later on, Matthew’s passion evolved into designing solutions that could enhance people’s lives and optimize processes, utilizing his 3D printer for household repairs during his undergraduate studies, Matthew demonstrated his knack for practical problem-solving and innovation.
Deciding to further his education, Matthew started his Master’s program in Mechanical Engineering at SJSU, drawn by the university’s quality of providing a comprehensive, industry-aligned education in the heart of Silicon Valley. Reflecting on this, Matthew highlights SJSU’s strategic location for opportunities, extensive range of engineering disciplines, and emphasis on hands-on learning as a pivotal factors that have enriched his academic and career journey
While balancing the demands of his graduate studies and a full-time job, Matthew remains committed to personal and professional development. Although not currently engaged in extracurricular activities, his involvement in organizations such as Alpha Kappa Psi, Sigma Gamma Tau, and Tau Beta Pi during his undergraduate years has helped enrich his academic experience through community engagement.
Looking ahead, Matthew’s visions are driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on the world through innovation. With a dream job centered around developing solutions that positively impact millions globally, Matthew sees himself at the forefront of the evolving landscape in the consumer electronics industry, leveraging technology to enhance consumer experiences and drive positive changes.
As a graduate student, Matthew shares valuable insights and advice for his freshman self and fellow students. Emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities, outside your comfort zone to build meaningful connections, Matthew encourages others to approach their college experience with a spirit of openness and curiosity, recognizing that each challenge and encounter is an opportunity for growth and learning.
Not to say it would be easy, not even for Matthew, he has faced numerous challenges and doubts in both academic and personal realms. He has held onto his ability to overcome past challenges, remembering what he accomplished. He stated, “To anyone grappling with similar struggles, remember: doubt and failure are not just obstacles, but catalysts for growth. They foster introspection, build resilience, and spark innovation, teaching us valuable lessons in humility, problem-solving, and setting realistic expectations”.
Black History Month
Home Security System – Mary Van Brittan Brown in 1966
Marie Van Brittan Brown, a pioneering Black inventor, revolutionized home security with her groundbreaking invention in 1966. Living in Queens, New York, where crime rates were high, Brown, a nurse, collaborated with her husband, Albert Brown, an electronics technician, to devise the first home security system. Their innovation incorporated peepholes, a camera, monitors, a two-way microphone, and an alarm button, enabling homeowners to monitor and communicate with visitors remotely, while also alerting authorities in case of emergencies. Their patent, granted in 1969, laid the groundwork for modern security systems, influencing features like video monitoring, remote-controlled locks, and instant messaging to law enforcement. Brown’s legacy endures in the continued use of her invention in various residential and commercial settings, showcasing the enduring impact of her ingenuity and contributions to engineering.
The Three-Light Traffic Signal – Garrett Morgan in 1923
Garrett Morgan demonstrated remarkable ingenuity in enhancing urban safety with his inventions. Inspired by a tragic collision involving a horse-drawn carriage and an automobile in the early 1920s, Morgan devised a solution to improve traffic management. Observing the limitations of existing traffic signals, which lacked a warning mechanism, Morgan crafted a manually operated T-shaped traffic signal. This innovative device featured movable arms directing traffic to stop, go, or halt in all directions, akin to today’s yellow or amber light. This addition not only reduced collisions but also facilitated safer pedestrian crossings. Despite not being the first traffic signal inventor, Morgan’s design significantly improved traffic control and safety. He patented the invention in 1923 and subsequently sold its rights to General Electric for $40,000. Morgan’s contributions endure as a testament to his commitment to public safety and innovation in engineering.
PC – Mark E. Dean
Mark E. Dean, a pioneering figure in technology and engineering, has left an indelible mark on the field with his groundbreaking inventions and visionary contributions. Born in 1957 in Tennessee, Dean’s passion for innovation led him to excel in electrical engineering, graduating at the top of his class from the University of Tennessee. Joining IBM, Dean played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of personal computing, co-developing the Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) system bus, which revolutionized the expandability and usability of PCs. His pioneering work also includes leading the design of the original IBM PC and spearheading the creation of the first gigahertz chip, significantly advancing data processing capabilities. Recognized for his groundbreaking achievements, Dean became the first Black IBM fellow and was honored with prestigious awards, including induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. His legacy underscores the importance of perseverance, innovation, and diversity in engineering.
Exploring the Challenges and Progress in AI Alignment – Prof Ahmed Banafa
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing everything from how we communicate to how we make decisions. As AI systems continue to evolve and advance, the need for aligning their goals with human values and intentions becomes increasingly critical. We will delve into the complex landscape of AI alignment, exploring its challenges, current research trends, and the potential impact on society.