˿����Ƶ

For Robel Kebede ‘25, graduating from ˿����Ƶ University’s Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science marks the culmination of four years filled with hard work, growth and a genuine passion for problem-solving.

A Queens native and graduate of Scholars’ Academy — one of New York City’s highest-ranked public schools, with a 100% graduation rate — Kebede arrived at ˿����Ƶ with a strong background in math and science. But his journey wasn’t without challenges.

Throughout his time at ˿����Ƶ, Kebede navigated the demands of rigorous coursework while balancing campus involvement and part-time work. He credits these experiences with shaping his resilience and adaptability, helping him develop not only academically but also personally. Along the way, he discovered a passion for problem-solving and innovation, which guided his decision to pursue opportunities in research and leadership roles on campus.

Early on, he struggled to maintain his enthusiasm for math, especially after barely passing Calculus II. Everything changed when he enrolled in Calculus III with Adam Weisblatt, a lecturer in the Harpur College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

“Before that class, I had really lost my love for math,” Kebede said. “But Adam was able to bring that spark back. With the energy and the humor he brought to every lecture, he made it enjoyable to come to class and easy to stay engaged. He was always so receptive to questions, which made a huge difference for me.

“I ended up getting an A, and even though that was over two years ago, I’ve kept in touch with him ever since. I still go to his office hours when I need help with tough, math-based engineering problems. No other faculty member has played such an important role in helping me hit the milestones I’m proud of today.”

Weisblatt learned from Kebede, too. Many of the engineering solutions that they worked on together have been integrated into Weisblatt’s classes to make them better.

“I will remember Robel for being extremely hardworking and his outgoing personality,” Weisblatt said. “Before homework assignments were due, you could find Robel leading study groups with classmates. He would share his solutions and was good at explaining difficult concepts.

“Robel’s tenacity and willingness to do deep dives into mathematical readings make me believe he will be very successful. He is truly one of the best students I have come across.”

Outside the classroom, Kebede balanced his studies as a mechanical engineering major with hands-on work as a bowling alley mechanic at the Union, making sure the lanes ran smoothly for students and visitors. That same practical mindset carried into his senior capstone project, where he helped lead the design and manufacture of an electromechanical mobile charging system for ˿����Ƶ’s Formula SAE vehicle, a student-built race car that competes against universities nationwide. The project combined electrical, mechanical and systems engineering, challenging Kebede to apply everything he had learned to a real-world problem.

Reflecting on his time at ˿����Ƶ, Kebede credited not just his professors but also his classmates, mentors and work experiences for shaping who he is today.

“It wasn’t always easy,” he said. “But between late nights in the lab, solving problems with my teammates and the satisfaction of seeing something you helped design actually work, it’s been worth every moment. I’ve learned not just how to be a better engineer, but how to be a better teammate and problem-solver.”

As Kebede prepares to graduate, he looks ahead with excitement to the next chapter, whether that takes him into the engineering industry, graduate school or beyond. With his combination of technical skill, resilience and curiosity, he’s ready to take on whatever challenges come his way and maybe even help inspire the next generation of engineers, just as his mentors inspired him.