Gilad Solomon ‘26 is working towards a dual degree involving two of the University of Hartford’s distinctive schools and colleges. He is studying electrical engineering at the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture and mathematics at the College of Arts and Sciences. Gilad originally chose these fields of study because he always enjoyed working on electronics throughout high school and has a passion for building and selling computers to others. He enjoys searching online for computers to flip.
On campus, Gilad is extremely involved as vice president of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), member of the FSAE racing team designing electronic wiring contracts, and participant on the general board of Chabad Chevra. “Chabad helped me connect with my Jewish roots on campus and gave me a place to have a sense of community,” he says. “I also met many people I wouldn't have met otherwise.” Gilad also enjoys being a peer tutor, explaining that he loves helping students learn new things.
He says IEEE has allowed him to find and be part of an environment of people who study the same as him. “I’ve had the chance to meet students who are passionate about electrical and civil engineering as a field, with whom I can exchange ideas and can relate,” Gilad adds. IEEE hosts study events where students help one another with academic work.
His favorite part about being a student at UHart is the small campus feel that allows you to really get to know other students and professors. “My experience at UHart is such that professors are very approachable and helpful, Gilad observes. “I’ve never felt like I’m viewed as a number in a professor’s book. In addition, courses like ES 143/242 have helped me gain an understanding of working on projects like the mini gantry crane that organizes colored blocks that I designed my first year or the mold sensor design we did sophomore year.”
UHart has prepared Gilad for career development by working under a professor, as well as upper-level and graduate students, who exposed him to his newfound love for research. He is now applying to several REU programs hoping to continue in the field of research.
“The campus environment has provided me with many opportunities to learn skills not directly related to my major,” Gilad says, “such as using the machine shop on campus and working at the FSAE shop, where I got experience welding and using other industrial equipment such as table band saws and drill presses.”
Before starting at UHart, Gilad spent a year working full time as a mechanic and a price engineer. This hands-on experience helped him understand how the industry works. Further projects and research experience at UHart helped him get better at collaborating, working with other students, and both sharing and delegating responsibilities.
Off campus, depending on the season, Gilad loves to ski and hike with his friends. Talcott Mountain in nearby Simsbury is a favorite destination for his hikes.