Opening Doors to a Bright Future Through Internships
Marzia's Journey: From Bangladesh to United States Patent Office
Marzia Monty, Stony Brook University alum and former SPIR intern, spoke with SUNY about her experience with the program
Marzia’s story is one of exploration, perseverance, and personal growth. Raised in Bangladesh, she had an early passion for science and math, while also actively participating in extracurricular activities like singing, poetry recitation, and sports. Inspired by stories of her maternal grandfather, a respected doctor, she initially aspired to pursue a career in medicine, however, her journey would ultimately lead her down a different path.
Upon moving to New York, Marzia founded a cultural club in high school and was encouraged by her teachers to "try everything," which further broadened her interests. When it came time to choose a college major, she was torn between pre-med and engineering. She spent a year exploring pre-med but ultimately decided to pursue electrical engineering at Stony Brook University (SBU), a major research institution.
She found her time at Stony Brook to be transformative. It was not just about academics but also about navigating independence, adapting to a diverse environment, and fostering connections. She joined a student organization that provided an opportunity for her to engage with fellow students.
Professors like Leon Shterengas and Michael Guzman played a pivotal role in her academic and professional growth. They provided her with opportunities such as becoming a teaching aide and working on practical projects in a lab. Their mentorship was instrumental in building her confidence and gaining hands-on experience.
However, it was her internship at LSI Computer Systems through the Strategic Partnership for Industrial Resurgence (SPIR) program at SBU that truly defined her career trajectory. Initially uncertain about her acceptance into the program due to her prior indecision between pre-med and engineering, she embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. At LSI, she gained valuable hands-on experience in the semiconductor industry, starting with product testing and later exploring layout design. It was through this internship that Marzia realized she preferred working as part of a team.
Beyond technical skills, the internship provided financial stability, enabling her first experience with off-campus housing and allowing her to be financially independent. The company supported her in numerous ways, such as offering flexible hours and pairing her with another intern for carpooling. Her mentor at LSI, Mr. James Smith, encouraged her to explore different aspects of the industry, helping her identify what she enjoyed and what she did not. This experience gave her clarity and confidence, leading to further opportunities at Texas Instruments and ultimately influencing her decision to enter the workforce instead of pursuing a Ph.D.
Marzia’s journey highlights the importance of both technical and interpersonal skills. Her education, combined with her experiences at LSI and the guidance of mentors, shaped her career choices. The SPIR program allowed her to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, discover her strengths, and solidify her career aspirations. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledges that the confidence she gained during her time at LSI was instrumental in her success.
Today, Marzia is a patent examiner at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). She values the flexibility of her role, which allows her to balance work and family life. Looking ahead, she hopes to be able to share her knowledge with others through intellectual property education and outreach.
In summary, Marzia’s career path was not a straightforward progression but a journey of exploration, influenced by her academic background, extracurricular activities, practical experiences, supportive mentors, and personal preferences. The SPIR internship at LSI Computer Systems was a transformative experience that helped her to solidify her career choice, develop essential skills, and gain a deeper understanding of her working style. Ultimately, her journey is a testament to the value of exploration, adaptability, and mentorship in shaping a fulfilling career.
