Mamadou Diallo works as a software engineer at Bank of America in Charlotte, North Carolina. Prior to launching his career in tech, Diallo earned his Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management at the NYU SPS Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies (DAUS).
In Summer 2021, he completed an internship with the Bank of America as an analyst in which he leveraged many of the industry skills and knowledge he learned at NYU SPS. His success in this internship lead to his current role with the financial institution.
To celebrate National Student Transfer Week (October 17-23, 2022), Diallo, a recipient of the NYU Community College Transfer Opportunity Program (CCTOP) scholarship, shared his experiences as a DAUS transfer student with us.
Tell us about your educational journey prior to transferring to NYU SPS.
I transferred from the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC). Throughout my life, I have always focused on, and prioritized, my education––I took it very seriously. That’s the main reason I got into NYU as a CCTOP scholar.
NYU has opened countless opportunities for me and prepared me to succeed in the professional workforce. NYU exposed me to opportunities I don't think I would have experienced elsewhere. I will always be happy to be a part of the NYU community.
What motivated you to transfer to NYU SPS?
I was motivated by NYU’s computer science and information systems management courses and how the program provided opportunities for diverse career paths—coupled with the School’s stellar reputation and worldwide recognition. I decided NYU was the best way for me to gain a wide array of skills and successfully reach my goals.
What was the experience like when you transferred to NYU SPS?
There was a huge difference between my community college experience and transferring to a private university. I was a bit worried about how to keep up and find my place within the NYU community in the early stages. But NYU made it easy by providing a variety of options, such as joining clubs and participating in events that exposed me to the NYU SPS community. I am glad I took advantage of the opportunities presented to me during my time at NYU.
What was your favorite class at NYU SPS?
I took an in-person FinTech class that I loved. Working in Corporate America, what I learned in that class aligns with many of the day-to-day duties of my current position.
Are there any instructors or School administrators who left a lasting impression on you?
There are many people on that list, but the three that stand out most are Professor Antonios Saravanos, Dean Angie Kamath, and my academic advisor, Jennifer Yuen. Professor Antonios is one of the nicest people I've met since I've been in the US. I'd always go to him for advice and guidance––by the way, he's the person who recommended that I enroll in the FinTech course.
I met Dean Kamath at an SPS event––she came up to me and started a conversation after she learned I transferred from a community college. I attended other events she hosted, which encouraged me to get more involved in the SPS community. And my advisor Jennifer Yuen always presented opportunities for me to explore, whether classes to take or scholarships to apply for. She has a gift for making students feel better and more confident about the many choices we have to make as students.
How do you feel your experience as an NYU SPS transfer student equips you for your current profession—and the future?
My experience as a transfer student reminds me to always be humble and to always take advantage of the different opportunities that come my way.