Introduction
When Edson Fuentes decided to pursue a graduate degree, Oregon State University already felt like home. Having completed his undergraduate studies in computer science at Oregon State, he knew he wanted a program that would let him continue growing technically while giving him the flexibility to explore new interests.
Fuentes had followed the computer science applied AI track as an undergraduate while minoring in statistics and was drawn to artificial intelligence and machine learning. He initially began a master’s program in statistics because he loved “the math behind all these machine learning algorithms.” But after one term, something felt off. “I really missed writing software,” he said.
Finding the perfect fit in computer science
That realization led him to the Master of Engineering (MEng) program in computer science at OSU — a decision he calls the perfect fit. “The MEng degree is super flexible. You can take a wide range of classes that will count toward your degree,” he said. “Since I was getting interested in hardware, I could even take electrical and computer engineering courses, and they would still count.”
That flexibility is one of the MEng program’s biggest strengths — and a key reason it consistently stands out for students weighing their graduate options. As we explore in Is an MEng Degree Worth It? 3 Reasons We Think So, the program’s adaptable structure allows students to shape their education around evolving interests and career goals. For Fuentes, that meant blending coursework in computer science, hardware, and engineering rather than being locked into a single academic track, all while staying connected to the OSU community he values.
For Fuentes, choosing OSU again was about people. “What Oregon State has over a lot of big-name schools is the community,” he said. “Everyone here is super helpful—faculty and students. People are open to collaboration, open to learning, and genuinely friendly.”
computer science Master of Engineering student
Blue Primary, Yellow Secondary
He points to the energy inside Kelley Engineering Center as a defining experience. “You walk in, and all the tables are full. People are crowded around working on the same assignment together. It’s a really cool sight to see.”
One of the most valuable parts of his Master of Engineering experience has been advising and support. “The help with advising has been huge,” Fuentes said. “The advisors are always willing to help you plan your degree, check scheduling constraints, and give recommendations. That kind of guidance makes a stressful process a lot easier.”
Preparing for a successful career
The program has also helped him prepare for the next stage of his career. Fuentes is currently focused on building a strong technical portfolio and securing internships. “That’s my main focus right now,” he said. “The engineering department is really good at helping us build a portfolio to maximize our chances of getting jobs.” This emphasis on career readiness is also what distinguishes the MEng from the M.S. degree. Unlike the research‑focused M.S., the MEng is a professional, coursework‑only degree designed for students seeking practical skills and leadership roles in industry. As outlined in MEng vs. M.S.: What’s the Difference?, the program allows graduate students to concentrate on the courses most relevant to their professional goals, with a clear focus on job‑ready knowledge and skills.
Looking ahead, Fuentes hopes to work in firmware or embedded systems, either in the automotive industry or the defense sector. “I’d like to work in defense or automotive doing firmware development,” he said. “Embedded systems feel like a solid, stable area, especially right now.”
For Fuentes, the MEng program at Oregon State has provided flexibility, mentorship, and a collaborative community — all of which have helped him bridge the gap between academic preparation and a purposeful engineering career.
