Empowering Future Engineers at Every Stage
The Chandra Family Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is committed to supporting students from their earliest academic experiences through graduate education. Our Student Impact programs are designed to foster a strong sense of belonging, build academic and professional skills, and create a culture of mentorship. These initiatives serve students from K–12 through graduate school, offering resources and support tailored to each stage of their journey.
K–12 Outreach: Edison Lecture Series
Our signature outreach initiative, the Edison Lecture Series, introduces middle and high school students to the excitement of electrical and computer engineering. Each event combines a university-style lecture with interactive, hands-on demonstrations to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.
First-Year Undergraduate: 1st-GEN
The First Generation Electrical and Computer Engineering Mentorship Program is designed to support students who are the first in their families to attend college. Through monthly seminar-style sessions, students explore topics like time management, study skills, research opportunities, and career development while building a supportive peer community.
Second-Year Undergraduate: AMPLIFY
Second-year students join small, structured mentoring pods led by upper-year peer mentors, faculty, and alumni. These pods create space for collaborative learning, course guidance, and professional development, helping students feel connected and confident as they progress in their studies.
Upper-Level Undergraduate: ECE Next
The ECE Next program supports juniors and seniors—both from UT and across Texas—who are considering graduate education. Students participate in a yearlong series of workshops and mentoring sessions, often paired with summer undergraduate research. Programming focuses on academic preparation, professional development, and building self-efficacy.
All Undergraduate Years: TALENT
TALENT is a student success program that supports all undergraduate students by connecting them with academic advisors and resources to improve GPAs, increase retention, and strengthen their identity as engineers. Beyond academics, TALENT takes a holistic approach to student development—offering guidance on personal wellness, mental health, social skills, and career readiness. Through individualized support and skill-building, TALENT empowers students to grow in confidence, build healthy habits, and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
First-Year Graduate: PARTNERS
New MS and PhD students are welcomed into small mentoring pods made up of advanced graduate students and faculty mentors. This initiative fosters a supportive culture of community, emotional well-being, and professional development—complementing formal academic advising and research supervision.
Join Us
Whether you're a student, alumnus, or industry partner, you can help make a lasting impact. These programs are made possible through the generosity and involvement of our community. Together, we are shaping the next generation of innovators, scholars, and leaders.
Contact for Giving Inquiries:
Alumni
Colton Lathram
Senior Program Coordinator
Alumni / Constituent Relations
colton.lathram@austin.utexas.edu
Corporate
Jennifer Gallant
Program Administrator
Recruiting and Experiential Learning
jennifer.gallant@austin.utexas.edu
