Student Spotlight:
Manuella Tossa

What makes Washington State University’s Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture stand out from the crowd for those looking to get a degree?

We ask electrical engineering major Manuella Tossa for her thoughts on what makes WSU such a special place.

Manuella was recently awarded the IEEE PES Scholarship. The IEEE Power and Energy Society provides scholarships and real world experience to undergraduates who are interested in power and energy engineering careers.

What does receiving the IEEE PES Scholarship mean to you?

The support from the IEEE PES Scholarship has been instrumental in allowing me to focus on my studies without the constant worry of financial burdens. It has provided me with the opportunity to pursue my passion for Electrical Engineering and specialize in the power track.

Additionally, it has opened doors to an internship and a potential staff position at S&C Electric Company after graduation. Financial assistance has enabled me to invest in necessary resources such as textbooks and equipment, and to participate in extracurricular activities and research projects that enhance my learning experience. Furthermore, it has given me the freedom to explore internships and networking opportunities, which are crucial for my professional development.

What made you decide to attend WSU?

I was particularly impressed with WSU Pullman and the programs it offered. After being accepted to all the universities I applied to, I faced the significant decision of where to continue my education. Wanting to stay close to family, I visited the Tri-Cities campus with the intent to transfer. I found it to be small but with a strong sense of community, support, and welcoming staff. Feeling that this environment would be conducive to my growth, I decided to transfer to WSU Tri-Cities. That’s how my journey at WSU began. I am from Benin in West Africa and came to the USA in 2019 after winning a diversity visa lottery.

I chose my major in Electrical Engineering due to my background and aspirations. In Benin, I was studying Telecommunication Networking Engineering and was preparing to defend my final paper to get my degree when I received the opportunity to come to the USA. Seizing this chance meant leaving behind my nearly completed degree and starting fresh, essentially from a high school diploma level, despite having completed five years of university education in my country. Upon arriving here, I wanted to continue in a field related to my previous studies, so I decided to pursue Electrical Engineering. Observing the energy system in my country and my desire to improve access to sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy for countries in need, I chose to specialize in the power track. My goal is to contribute to enhancing energy systems and positively impacting society and policies related to energy systems.

What advice do you have for fellow or prospective students?

My advice is to stay curious, be proactive, and embrace the community at WSU. Here are a few recommendations to help students succeed in their major and at WSU:

1. Engage with Your Professors and Mentors: Build strong relationships with your professors and seek their guidance. They are valuable resources who can offer insights, support, and opportunities. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek help when needed.
2. Get Involved: Participate in extracurricular activities, clubs, and research projects. These experiences not only enhance student’s learning but also help build a network of peers and professionals. Being involved can open doors to internships, jobs, and collaborations.
3. Stay Organized and Manage Your Time: Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life can be challenging. Develop good time management skills and stay organized to keep up with responsibilities and deadlines.
4. Seek Out Research and Internship Opportunities: Take advantage of the research and internship opportunities available at WSU. Gaining hands-on experience in fields of study will enrich student’s education and make them more competitive in the job market.
5. Utilize Campus Resources: Make the most of available resources, such as libraries, labs, career services, and academic support centers. These resources are there to help students succeed and thrive. By staying engaged, organized, and proactive, fellow or prospective students can make the most of their time at WSU and set themselves up for success in their major and future careers.

What have you learned during your time at WSU, that will help you most in the future?

During my time at WSU, I have learned several key lessons that will greatly benefit me in the future. One of the most impactful experiences occurred during my first semester. Initially, I was primarily focused on attending classes and would quickly head back home afterward. I was in a hurry to finish my academic responsibilities each day, staying within my comfort zone. This routine continued until I met a group of friends who encouraged and helped me to step out of my shell and fully embrace campus life. With their support, I started participating in various extracurricular activities, joining clubs, and attending campus events.

This new found engagement not only enriched my university experience but also helped me build lasting friendships and develop essential life skills. It has made my time at WSU more enjoyable and rewarding, broadening my horizons beyond the classroom. Additionally, I have learned the importance of collaboration, adaptability, buddy system, and networking. Working with diverse teams on various projects has taught me the value of effective communication and problem-solving. The practical application of theoretical knowledge through hands-on projects and internships has prepared me for real-world challenges. Engaging with professors, mentors, and industry professionals has expanded my network and provided valuable insights and opportunities. Overall, my time at WSU has equipped me with the tools and mindset needed to succeed in my future endeavors.

What do you want to do with your degree after you graduate?

After graduating with my degree in Electrical Engineering, I plan to pursue a Master’s in Energy Management while working in the energy sector. This combination will provide practical experience and deepen my understanding of energy systems and policies.

My ambition extends beyond technical expertise; I aim to collaborate with international organizations to influence energy sector policies and expand electricity access to underserved regions. By engaging with these organizations, I hope to shape sustainable energy policies that promote reliable and affordable energy access on a global scale. Ultimately, I aspire to be at the forefront of innovative energy solutions and policy development, ensuring that communities worldwide benefit from advancements in the energy sector.