Teaching is learning

Tuong T.

I am a third-year student at the University of North Texas, pursuing a Bachelor's in Mechanical Energy Engineering. In addition to my degree, I am working towards certificates in Additive Digital Manufacturing, Electromechanical Systems and Mechatronics, and Technology and Manufacturing. These certifications complement my academic focus and provide me with specialized knowledge in design, automation, and manufacturing, enriching both my technical and problem-solving skills.

I also gained valuable teaching experience as an Instructional Assistant (IA) for a graduate-level Product Design and Development course. In this role, I helped students apply mechanical principles to design tools aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities. The course focused on design strategies, modeling techniques, and research skills. Using SolidWorks, Fusion 360, and UltimakerCura, I evaluated student projects and provided constructive feedback on their designs, ensuring they met both mechanical and usability standards.

The class had around 40 graduate students, ranging in age from 22 to 30. My responsibilities included assisting with lectures, leading workshops, and offering one-on-one support as students developed their projects. I guided them through the design process and helped them refine their models based on user-centered principles. Through this experience, I developed strong communication skills and learned to tailor my approach to accommodate various learning styles.

This teaching role reinforced my belief in the value of hands-on, project-based learning. It enhanced my ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear, approachable manner and deepened my passion for helping others bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.