For Racheal Asaolu, science isn’t just about discovery—it’s about impact. Whether through groundbreaking research on neurodegenerative diseases, or her dedication to fostering diversity in STEM, she is committed to making a difference. Her path to pursuing a PhD in Biology and Biotechnology at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is rooted in a lifelong drive to make…Continue Reading Racheal Asaolu: Science, Equity, and Mentorship in STEM
For Gary Acquah, the pursuit of a graduate degree in Civil Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) represents more than academic growth—it’s the next chapter in an already ambitious career. Originally from the Bronx, Acquah’s journey spans real estate, construction, and a commitment to sustainable, community-focused innovation. With over a decade of experience in real…Continue Reading Gary Acquah, Gateway Scholar- Bridging Business, Engineering, and Innovation for the Future
Rachel Toups’ path to WPI was as creative and vibrant as she is. With a unique mix of skills in programming, art, dance, and even a bit of “garden fairy” magic from her job at Lowe’s tending plants, Toups found her passion in making interactive experiences that have a positive impact. Growing up in Boxborough, MA, and later…Continue Reading Blending Art, Code, and Connection: Rachel Toups, Gateway Scholar
Sofia Knopf is our next Gateway Scholarship Recipient! A Plymouth, MA, native who’s found the perfect balance between her academic pursuits and athletic passion! Now a graduate student at WPI, she’s pursuing her master’s in Neuroscience while using her final year of NCAA eligibility to pitch for the WPI varsity softball team. Knopf graduated Magna Cum…Continue Reading Sofia Knopf, Gateway Scholar: From the Lab to the Field – Pursuing Neuroscience and Softball at WPI
Abi Young is no stranger to overcoming challenges. As a first-generation college student and now a graduate student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), Young has faced numerous hurdles throughout her academic and professional journey—but each one has only fueled her determination to succeed. Originally from East Hampton, Connecticut, Young’s interest in electrical engineering began during…Continue Reading A Power Systems Engineer Driven by Perseverance: Gateway Scholar, Abi Young
When asked about her most significant achievements, Bridgette Bowyer humbly admits that she’s only just begun her journey at WPI. However, her accomplishments before arriving on campus are nothing short of impressive. As the first person in her family to attend college, she has not only broken new ground personally but also made a significant…Continue Reading Breaking Barriers: A Gateway Scholar’s Journey from First-Generation College Student to Biomedical Innovator, Bridgette Bowyer
What distinguished WPI from other higher education institutions in my graduate school search was its unique instructional approach and the supportive guidance provided by advisors throughout the academic journey….Continue Reading Perspectives: John C. Manyiel
As per tradition, Graduate & Professional Studies staff gathered at the historic Higgins House earlier in the day to celebrate graduates who earned their degrees part-time and/or online. Campus tours were a highlight for the grads and their families because, for many of the students, it was their first time visiting campus! From there, our…Continue Reading WPI Graduate Commencement 2023
If you were to ask Kaija Gisolfi-McCready what her most important achievement while at WPI is, she would be able to tell you right away: “For me, it would be my Major Qualifying Project (MQP), which focuses on building a blood pressure monitor for pregnant women in Ghana.” During the fall term, while pursuing her…Continue Reading Kaija Gisolfi-McCready: In the Business of Healthcare Solutions
Chandlor Lyles ’16, MS Management Engineering, shares how WPI pushed her to go out of her comfort zone and into an ambitious career. When Chandlor Lyles was searching for a college from her home in Randolph, Mass., WPI wasn’t anywhere on her list. In fact, she had never heard of WPI—but when the university recruited…Continue Reading Business School Alum Chandlor Lyles: Finding a World of Success