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Originally from Ghana, Akosua Cobbina, is graduating with a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering this spring. She describes herself as an engineer motivated by "innovation, strategy, and making ideas happen." Cobbina has led award-winning research, built AI tools to detect brain injuries, and developed marketing skills expanding upon her technical prowess. She prides herself on mentoring future engineers and even starting a nonprofit, “because why not?” she said. “It’s been a wild ride so far, and I’m just getting started.” Cobbina begins her SIUE story with impressions from her first day on campus.

I got on the wrong bus my first day and ended up in Collinsville instead of Edwardsville—that pretty much sums up how unsure I felt starting out. Today, I’m leaving with clarity, confidence, and purpose. I came for a degree but found transformation—from brain injury research to international conferences, this journey exceeded every expectation.

When I arrived on my first day, everything was unfamiliar: new country, new system, new people. I didn’t begin my college career at SIUE, but transferring here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I chose SIUE for its strong industrial engineering program, supportive faculty, and diverse community, and it delivered all that and more.

For instance, my support system became a powerhouse mix of professors and mentors who challenged me, friends and loved ones who checked in, and family praying and cheering me on from a whole other time zone. The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and other organizations gave me a space to belong, serve, and grow beyond the classroom. There were tough moments, freezing January mornings, and navigating life abroad and uncertainties, but we didn’t just survive; we thrived.

Grad school came with its fair share of surprises, like getting papers accepted, winning a few things, and somehow ending up featured along the way. Volunteering at international events and traveling to 19 states made it all even more memorable. It wasn’t just about the degree; it turned into a full-on experience.

I was actively involved in NSBE at SIUE—organizing outreach events, mentoring students, and building a strong support system on campus. With Society of Women Engineers, I volunteered at national events like “Invent It. Build It.” where I helped inspire young girls to explore engineering. And it doesn’t stop there—I also launched my nonprofit initiative, Here for Minds, which advocates for individuals affected by neurological disorders, especially in industrial settings. It’s been meaningful to turn what I’m learning into something that can make a real-world impact.

One of my biggest challenges was adjusting to a new country while juggling grad school, research, and work all during some painfully cold January mornings. There were days I questioned all my life choices, but I kept going. Eventually, I found my rhythm, and what felt overwhelming at first became part of the story I now laugh about.

What advice would you offer your younger self?

Make every day count. Have fun. Make connections. And if something feels like a mistake, it’s probably just a weirdly dressed opportunity.

What advice would you offer the next class of Cougars?

Be intentional about your success. Have a plan. Create opportunities and take opportunities; they don’t always come twice. And even if they do, the second time might take its sweet time getting to you.

What’s next for you?

I’m heading into industry, but I know I’ll be back in school eventually, studying something exciting or PhD-ing my way through life. Whatever happens, this Cougar is ready! I came here for a degree and left with stories, lessons, and growth. It wasn’t perfect, but it was worth it. 

PHOTO:  Akosua Cobbina, graduating with a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering