From Undergrad to Master’s Grad: Berkay’s SCALE Journey

Berkay, a recent Vanderbilt University graduate, just wrapped up his master’s degree and landed a job with one of NASA’s biggest contractors — a connection made possible through his involvement with the SCALE program.

He joined SCALE back in 2020 as an undergrad, while working with Dr. Daniel Loveless, who was then at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and is now at Indiana University Bloomington. After his time at Chattanooga, Berkay came to Vanderbilt to pursue his master’s degree. Through SCALE connections, he secured two separate internships, each offering hands-on experience and deeper insight into microelectronics research. The SCALE network helped him build relationships with industry professionals and gain a broader view of the field beyond his own university.

Reflecting on his experience, Berkay shared, “I wasn’t limited to just my university. I got to see the bigger picture of what everyone was working on in microelectronics. There is so much to gain while you’re in school and even after.”

Now, as he gears up to work with industry leaders at a NASA contractor, Berkay’s journey shows just how impactful SCALE can be in opening doors and shaping careers.

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