The SMPS Foundation, in partnership with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), provides financial assistance to students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Made possible by generous donations, the SMPS Foundation Zinsmeyer Scholarship Program focuses on the fields of architecture, construction management, engineering, marketing, mass communications, and public relations. Recently, SMPS chatted with Destinie James, who attends Tuskegee University, and is one of 16 students who received a scholarship for the 2024-25 academic year.
What inspired you to apply for this scholarship? I was inspired to apply for this scholarship because it aligns with my passion for building a more inclusive, innovative future in engineering. As a student at Tuskegee University double majoring in computer engineering and electrical engineering, I’ve consistently sought opportunities to further my education while giving back to my community. This scholarship represents both recognition and empowerment for students like me who are committed to making a difference.
How has receiving this scholarship impacted your academic or personal journey? Receiving this scholarship has lightened my financial burden, allowing me to focus more deeply on my coursework, certifications, and extracurricular leadership. It’s also given me a boost in confidence—knowing that there are organizations who believe in my potential has motivated me to continue pushing forward.
What are your academic and career goals? Academically, my goal is to continue developing strong technical skills in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI through both formal education and hands-on experiences. Professionally, I aspire to become a technical program manager and engineer working on impactful infrastructure and technology projects that serve both government and underserved communities.
Have you faced any challenges in your educational journey, and if so, how have you overcome them? Yes, balancing dual degrees in computer and electrical engineering while working part-time, completing internships, and leading student initiatives has been a major challenge. I’ve overcome it by developing strong time management skills, leaning on mentors for guidance, and staying focused on the bigger picture—knowing that my efforts will open doors for others who come after me.
Can you share a school project you’re proud of and what, if anything, has it taught you? I’m most proud of my senior design project, where I helped build a multi-factor authentication surveillance system integrating PIR motion sensors, RFID, and facial recognition. It taught me the importance of collaboration, documentation, and designing for real-world constraints—skills I’ll carry with me into my career.
What drew you to pursue a degree in engineering? Growing up, I was always curious about how things worked—taking apart electronics, rebuilding them, and solving technical problems. Engineering gave that curiosity a purpose. Being at Tuskegee University, surrounded by a legacy of excellence and innovation, has only further inspired me to pursue this path.
Is there a particular sector or industry you’re excited to work in after graduation, and why? I’m especially excited about the intersection of infrastructure, energy, and emerging technologies. Whether it’s through renewable energy systems or smart city innovations, I want to work in an industry where technology is used to improve lives and close equity gaps.
How do you hope your work as an engineer will impact your communities and the world around you? I hope to use my engineering skills to create solutions that increase access, efficiency, and safety, particularly in underserved communities. Whether it’s through secure infrastructure, accessible tech, or clean energy solutions, I want my work to empower people and create more equitable opportunities worldwide.
