Frank Abela had the unique opportunity as an undergraduate to work directly alongside UHart’s faculty in the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA). After just three years, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Electronic Engineering Technology. He is now continuing his journey at UHart as a part-time CETA instructor while working toward his Master of Engineering in electrical and computer engineering.
According to Abela, “I received this opportunity through a number of contacts I made with professors during my time as an undergraduate, the most important of which was with Professor Moslehpour, who both recommended me for the position and encouraged me to pursue the master's degree.”
A University of Hartford education is about more than coursework—it’s also about hands-on learning. Frank spent much of his time during his undergraduate years assisting Professor Moslehpour and Professor Kirschner in CETA. Abela specialized in digital device courses and was able to work with Robert Perusini ’20, M’22 to design a 32-bit microprocessor for their senior Capstone project.
Abela is unique in that he graduated from UHart in just three years. This exceptional circumstance was another way in which he could work with his professors. Franks says that “because I was able to graduate with my undergraduate degree in only three years, several semesters required overrides and signatures, which were always approved by my advisor and department chair Professor Yu, as well as Dean Pines.”
“The faculty at this University are a step above most other universities,” says Frank, “they actively care about their students and want to see them succeed.” UHart is unique in that it gives undergraduate students the chance to practice what they’re learning in class before entering the professional or graduate worlds.
Many of UHart’s faculty take the time to help their students one-on-one, which is an advantage over other universities. “Courses at UHart can be very complex, but you should never be afraid to email one of your professors to ask for assistance with coursework,” says Frank. He believes that faculty is “happy to help you, even if they are not necessarily the one teaching that material.”
When asked about his experience at UHart, Franks says that it was “very positive, I would absolutely do it all over again.” He encourages incoming students to utilize the new Center for Student Success (CSS). “There are always resources available through CSS if you are struggling through a course,” says Frank.
Frank Abela, '20The faculty at this University are a step above most other universities, they actively care about their students and want to see them succeed.