Testimonial: Recent Auburn Engineering graduate says online ISE program 'checked all the boxes'

Andrew Hoang is one of Engineering Online's most recent graduates, having completed his Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering in August 2024 after just two years in the program. He maintained a full-time job in Huntsville while earning his master's. 

Q: What is your current job?
A: I’m currently working as the Modeling, Simulation and Analysis Lead for the Next Generation Interceptor program at MDA (Missile Defense Agency).

Q: Where did you earn your bachelor’s degree and in what area of study?
A: I studied computer engineering at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

Q: What made you decide to pursue this graduate online program?
A: I looked into the Auburn Engineering Online program after hearing great things about it from my friends and colleagues. For me, I wanted a flexible program with interesting courses of study, and this checked off all the boxes for me.

Q: What was your personal experience with the 100 percent online format?
A: The program was very flexible and accommodating, and even though the program was all virtual, the faculty and staff members were very responsive and helpful to me throughout the program. 

Q: Would you have been able to pursue your master’s if not for the fully online format?
A: Most likely not. The flexibility of online courses allowed me to continue with my full-time job with a healthy balance between the two.

Q: How has this graduate degree enhanced your professional life, or how do you expect it will in future? 
A: This program has been enhancing my knowledge and skillset since the first semester. Most of the courses were very relatable to my work, and I still apply and utilize that knowledge in my work now.

Q: What would you tell someone who was thinking about applying for an Auburn Engineering Online graduate program?
A: I would say “do it and do it as soon as you can.” I hesitated a little bit back in the day and did not apply for the program as soon as I wanted to because I thought I wasn’t ready. But all of the faculty and staff members were very helpful – they’ll help guide you throughout the program.