Justin Osmond, a senior in the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) program at SUNY Poly, has shaped his college experience around a clear priority: building a strong foundation for a career in engineering through hands-on learning, research, and real-world application.
Originally from Boonsboro, Maryland, Justin came to SUNY Poly with a dual interest in academics and athletics, initially drawn by the opportunity to play basketball while pursuing engineering. Early in his college career, however, he made the intentional decision to step away from athletics and dedicate himself fully to his academic and professional goals.
“I realized I wanted to put 100 percent into my education and future,” he says.
Although he entered SUNY Poly undecided, Justin quickly found his path. Within his first semester, he transitioned into ECE. “I always knew I wanted to do engineering,” he explains. “It was just about figuring out which direction and committing to it.”
Choosing Opportunity
During his sophomore year, and having moved away from athletics, Justin contemplated transferring to a larger institution. He was accepted to a number of schools along the east coast. Ultimately, he chose to stay at SUNY Poly—driven by the opportunities already unfolding in front of him.
“What made the difference was seeing how many doors were opening here,” he says. “I realized I was already in a place where I could build the experience I needed.”
Through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, Justin expanded his expertise in wireless communication, near-field characterization, and signal processing. He gained hands-on experience working with state-of-the-art radio frequency (RF) systems and advanced testing equipment not typically accessible at the undergraduate level. This experience allowed him to bridge theory and practice, applying what he learned in the classroom to real-world research environments.
Justin’s experience has been deeply shaped by his involvement with the university’s WINGS Research Center, where he worked closely with faculty mentors Dr. Arjun Singh and Dr. Priyangshu Sen. There, he explored wireless terahertz communication and emerging technologies poised to succeed 5G and enable the next generation of 6G networks and beyond. What began through classroom engagement and conversations during office hours quickly evolved into a hands-on research opportunity grounded in strong mentorship.
“Getting hands-on with real systems and research helped everything click,” he says.
His work resulted in two research publications and the opportunity to present at the International Conference on Communications (ICC) in Montreal, further strengthening both his technical and professional skills. Justin credits this experience as a key factor in securing internships and ultimately his full-time role, noting that it helped him build both technical expertise and professional confidence.
A Personalized Learning Environment
Justin credits SUNY Poly’s small class sizes and accessible faculty as key contributors to his growth.
“You’re able to actually connect with professors,” he says. “You can ask questions, build relationships, and get guidance beyond just the coursework.”
Those connections opened doors to research, internships, and career opportunities, with faculty providing mentorship, recommendation letters, and professional advice throughout his journey.
Justin’s transition from student to professional is already underway. In addition to a previous internship, he has spent this past semester working part-time remotely with MITRE, a federally funded research and development center in Massachusetts.
This experience has allowed him to apply the concepts he’s learned, particularly in modeling and simulation, to real-world projects.
“It’s been a great bridge between what I’ve done here and what I’ll be doing full-time,” he says.
After graduation, Justin will join MITRE as a full-time Communications Systems Engineer, contributing to advanced communication systems within government-sponsored projects.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his journey, Justin encourages future students not to be intimidated by the rigor of ECE.
“A lot of people are hesitant going into it,” he says. “But it really comes down to the work and dedication you’re willing to put in.”
He also emphasizes that prior experience isn’t necessary to succeed.
“I came in without a background in circuits, and at first it felt like everyone else knew more,” he says. “But you realize quickly that everyone is learning together.”
Justin Osmond’s experience at SUNY Poly highlights the impact of taking initiative, building relationships, and fully committing to your goals. By focusing on academics, research, and professional development, he has positioned himself for success in the engineering field and beyond.
“I wanted to put myself in the best position for my future,” he says. “And I found that here.”