Four Alabama A&M University students joined a select group of peers from across the nation at Spectrum Sizzle, held June 9 – 12 at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) on Long Island. The immersive, four-day workshop focused on wireless communication, spectrum management, radar systems, and hands-on labs designed to expose students to the fast-growing field of spectrum technology.

Sophomore electrical engineering major Mahmoudah Shittu, junior computer science majors Kyla Murray and Ibrahim Bello, and senior computer science major Aniah Cosby were among only 39 students chosen from 15 universities to attend the workshop, which was fully funded and covered all major expenses, including travel, accommodations, and meals.

For Bello, an Honors Program and Presidential Scholar from Lagos, Nigeria, the experience was eye-opening. “Spectrum Sizzle introduced us to the growing field of wireless spectrum technology,” said Bello. “We explored policies, real-world applications, and how the spectrum impacts daily life. We also worked with lab equipment to engage with wireless signals.”

One of the most memorable activities for Bello was the “Fox Hunt,” where teams tracked hidden signal transmitters using radio frequency tools. He emphasized how the exercise revealed spectrum’s role in national security and military operations. Bello also appreciated the exposure to internship and graduate school opportunities and is currently serving as a Wireless Testing Lab Intern at UL Solutions in California.

Senior computer science major Aniah Cosby, from St. Louis, Missouri, said being selected was surreal. After facing challenges adjusting to college life, Cosby found her stride with faculty support and now leads several student organizations, including Girls Who Code and the AAMU chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers. “This opportunity validated the work I’ve put in to improve academically and grow as a leader,” said Cosby.

“Representing Alabama A&M on a national platform was an honor.” I left with a stronger technical foundation and a clearer sense of purpose. We were even introduced to graduate opportunities, which was incredibly motivating.” Cosby plans to pursue a career in UX/UI design or cybersecurity and eventually return to her hometown to teach computer science.

Kyla Murray, a junior from Columbus, Ohio, also found the workshop inspiring. “Connecting with other like-minded students and professionals reminded me just how wide and welcoming the tech world can be,” she said. Murray, who transferred to AAMU in 2023, gained experience building microwave circuits, using radar tools to track motion, and analyzing signal data – skills she said deepened her confidence in hardware-based and analytical work. She also explored the legal and policy side of spectrum, including how government agencies regulate wireless communication.

“It revealed career paths in compliance and tech law that help keep innovation safe and equitable,” she said. Murray previously interned at Amazon Web Services and is active in Alabama A&M’s Transfer Student Association and Association for Computing Machinery.

Hosted at four different universities across the country – including Baylor University, Virginia Tech, Colorado State University, and NYIT – Spectrum Sizzle was designed to expose underrepresented students to the science, policy, and innovation shaping wireless communications. The program gave participants access to mentors from major industry players, including the IEEE, Lockheed Martin, and Keysight Technologies.

The students agree opportunities like Spectrum Sizzle reflect Alabama A&M University’s broader commitment to student growth, both inside and outside the classroom. “Since transferring, I’ve had access to so many hackathons, tech conferences, career fairs, and student organizations, along with a strong education that builds both technical and professional skills,” said Murray. “The environment is supportive, and there’s always something happening that connects us to real-world experiences. AAMU constantly encourages us to explore new ideas and stay engaged beyond the classroom.”

(Photo courtesy Brianna Hobert/NYIT)