I am an ambitious Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Student at Fairfield University
From Vietnam to New York to Spain, my journey has taught me one thing: engineering is the universal language of progress. Seeing how engineering shapes our society inspired me as an college student to dedicate my life to making the world a better place for everyone.
About Me
or… Hello!! I’m Eric
I am a Mechanical Engineering student at Fairfield University specializing in Automation, Robotics, and Manufacturing. As an engineer, I love the challenge of bridging the gap between digital design and physical fabrication. My toolkit ranges from SolidWorks CAD and FEA simulations to hands-on manual milling and advanced 3D printing.
Driven by curiosity and a strict attention to detail, I’ve engineered custom test apparatuses for advanced research, simulated internal combustion engine dynamics, and built structures ranging from lightweight truss bridges to functional aquatic transport.
When I'm not in the machine shop or lab, you can find me managing residential communities on campus or capturing perspectives as the Vice President of Fairfield's Photography Club.
Xin Chào!
Education
Fairfield University, School of Engineering and Computing
Expected Graduation Date: May 2027
Major: Mechanical Engineering Minor: Mathematics Concentration: Automation, Robotics and Manufacturing
Clubs and Organizations: Tri-Alpha Honors Society, The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Engineering Student Society (Vice President, ESS), Photography Club (Vice President)
Awards and Recognitions: Dean’s List (Fall 2023 to Spring 2026), Programmer of the Year (2025), Most ResLife Spirit (2025), Most Valuable Usher (2025), Staff of the Year (2026)
Projects
Experiences
Summer Research Assistant Fairfield University, School of Engineering and Computing
Summer 2024
Fabricate advanced material samples using the Rapidia Conflux 1 Metal 3D Printer and its dedicated sintering furnace.
Utilize specialized laboratory equipment to conduct experimental studies on heat exchanger behavior, specifically analyzing wax melting phases within TPMS structures.
Maintain strict compliance with university and laboratory protocols by completing mandatory Laboratory Safety Trainings and Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) guidelines
Collaborate within a specialized research team investigating the thermal performance of Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) structures embedded in Phase Change Materials (PCMs).
Design intricate TPMS structures and custom experimental setups utilizing SolidWorks and MSLattice.
Perform computational simulation studies using ANSYS to model, analyze, and optimize the thermal performance of designed TPMS structures.
Conduct comprehensive literature surveys to ground experimental methodologies in current academic research.
Contribute actively to academic exchange by participating in weekly research seminars, project kick-off meetings, and formal closing presentations.
Resident Assistant Fairfield University, Office of Residence Life
April 2024 - Present
Collaborate within a diverse team of 8 Resident Assistants to manage residential operations, ensure campus safety, and support university housing initiatives.
Cultivate an inclusive community of 40+ residents, promoting holistic development, smooth academic transitions, and personal guidance rooted in the Jesuit value of cura personalis (care for the whole person).
Design, market, and execute educational and social programming tailored to resident needs, fostering a strong sense of belonging and engagement within the residence hall.
Uphold community standards and enforce the Student Code of Conduct, maintaining order and safety while serving as a positive role model for both residents and peer staff.
Manage administrative responsibilities, including writing comprehensive incident reports, completing facility logs, and documenting resident wellness checks with high accuracy.
House Manager (Front of House) Quick Center for the Arts
October 2023 - Present
Lead a team of 5+ ushers and volunteers to ensure the seamless coordination and execution of live events.
Accommodate an average of 400+ patrons per event, optimizing front-of-house operations to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
Manage end-to-end show operations, taking full responsibility for preshow preparation, event execution, and post-show wrap-up.
Reconcile and finalize nightly concession reports immediately following performances to ensure accurate financial tracking and inventory control.
Summer Projects Intern Fairfield University, Office of Residence Life
Summer 2024
Supported Central Staffs with strategic operations, including the large-scale logistics of Residence Hall Summer Closing and Fall Opening.
Streamlined administrative processes during peak university transition periods to ensure a seamless move-in and move-out experience for residents.
Managed the Office’s social media platforms, creating content to deliver critical housing information to a community of over 2,000 followers.
Served as a primary point of contact, effectively addressing questions and resolving concerns from parents and students regarding housing assignments and policies.
Skills
Technical Skills
SolidWorks: Modeling, Assembling, Simulation
ANSYS: Structural, Thermal
MATLAB: MathWorks, Finite Elements Analysis (FEA)
Machining: Manual Milling Machine
Manufacturing: 3D Printing, Assembling, CNC Laser
Soft Skills
Teamwork and Collaboration Adaptation and Flexibility
Communication
Problem-Solving
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)