Meet our alumni - Lulu Wang
Lulu Wang is an established professional with extensive experience in the tech industry. After earning her BS in Electrical Engineering from St. Cloud State University, she began her career as a software engineer at Nonin Medical, Inc. With over a decade of experience, Lulu currently leads data-driven optimization in modem software at Qualcomm, overseeing cross-functional teams throughout the entire project lifecycle (ML or non-ML), from problem to commercialization. In addition to her technical role, she is also a board member of Qualcomm Employee Networks, where she is dedicated to helping women and emerging leaders advance their careers.
Why did you choose to pursue a Masters degree in Software Engineering specifically at the University of Minnesota?
I chose to pursue a Master's in Software Engineering degree at the UMN because of its strong reputation in computer science and engineering in Minnesota. I have always wanted to get an advanced technical degree, and the MSSE program was a perfect choice after searching for programs. The program's curriculum and schedule was flexible, allowing me to continue advanced education while working full-time. The emphasis on practical experience through projects was helpful, as it ensured I could apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The UMN also has a large alumni network willing to help connect each other with future career opportunities.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far and how did the MSSE program help you?
The most rewarding aspect of my career has been solving complex technical problems, especially when the problems are not well defined. Having a cohort who on average has over 5 years of experience helped me improve my problem-solving skills by working on practical projects in a collaborative team environment. This experience taught me how to break down ambiguous problems, develop solutions step by step, and effectively communicate with team members and drive projects towards a successful result. The program's focus on real-world applications and teamwork has been instrumental in my ability to lead projects and drive successful outcomes in my career.
What do you see as the future trends or opportunities in your field, and how do you plan to adapt to them?
I have been working in modem wireless technology for 7 years, with the last 2 focused on intelligent connectivity leveraging AI and ML. The future trend is the rise of generative AI, with multi-modality and multi-model sizes suited for specific use cases, both for cloud usage and on-device AI. Additionally, using LLMs to develop code is exciting to improve software development efficiency.
To adapt to this trend, I have been getting training on the side and continue to develop skills on my job in the AI/ML domain. I stay updated on the latest news and research papers and build a network of like-minded colleagues to share knowledge and learn from each other. The MSSE program is for individuals who are highly motivated to make positive contributions to the world, in real-time.
Do you have any parting advice for those who are non entirely sure whether to join the MSSE program?
If you're unsure about joining the MSSE program, my advice is to consider your career goals and how the program aligns with them. Are you looking to enhance your technical skills, such as software architecture and design? Are you aiming to improve your project management skills, like leading enterprise projects? Or are you hoping to expand your professional network?
The program offers valuable opportunities in all these areas and can fit into a full-time work schedule. Think carefully about how it aligns with your goals and the time commitment you'll need to make for the next two years. But it will be worth it once you graduate. The formative curriculum is designed to diversify knowledge and awareness of areas that intersect with software engineering. In addition, leaning alongside other software engineering professionals contributes to the overall success of students.
How has the program impacted your life and career?
First, it showed me that getting a master’s degree while working full-time is possible. Balancing work and study was not easy, but it taught me valuable time management and prioritization skills. This experience made me more resilient and adaptable, which has been crucial in my career.
The program also expanded my professional network, connecting me with peers in similar professions. The career jump I made after graduating was largely thanks to these connections, which led to accomplishments I couldn't have imagined.
Working closely with a group of motivated and talented individuals on various projects also boosted my confidence. We successfully completed many projects together, which was a great learning experience.
Overall, the MSSE program has been instrumental in my professional and personal growth, enabling me with the skills needed to excel in my role as a software engineering lead.
How did you take advantage of the MSSE program’s networking opportunities?
Spending time with motivated, talented, and generous professionals has significantly expanded my network. Attending events like Barcamp and other social gatherings has also been valuable. My advice, if you’re in the program, is to start building connections as soon as you can. I suggest beginning with lunch as a cohort. This can be a great way to foster relationships and then extend invitations to socialize outside of classes. Additionally, I recommend keeping an eye on your inbox for information about conferences, such as the Code Freeze conference and other events open to University of Minnesota alumni. At the very least, try to attend one event and make the most of the opportunity!